Industry Spotlight: Pest Control in the US

The pest control industry in the United States provides essential services for both residential and commercial clients, helping to manage and eliminate pests ranging from rodents and termites to mosquitoes and other insects. Providers offer a variety of solutions, including bird control, fumigation, and heat treatments, tailored to protect property, health, and safety. By addressing infestations and preventing future occurrences, pest control companies play a critical role in maintaining healthy living and working environments.

In recent years, volatile housing markets have influenced industry performance, as higher interest rates and fluctuating home prices have slowed residential transactions—a key source of demand for pest control services. The industry experienced more favorable conditions during the pandemic, but growth has since moderated. As interest rates normalize and economic stability improves, renewed consumer spending on home improvements and maintenance is expected to create fresh opportunities for pest control providers.

Climate change is also reshaping the industry’s operational scope. Warmer and wetter conditions are expanding pest activity into regions that previously experienced minimal demand, creating growth potential in formerly underserved, colder areas. At the same time, environmental regulations and licensing requirements remain strict, with pest control providers needing to meet rigorous federal and state standards to operate legally and effectively.

Financially, the industry is on solid ground. In 2024, revenue was estimated at $24.2 billion, with projected annual growth of 1.7% through 2029. The sector employs over 159,000 workers, with employment expected to grow 2.2% annually over the same period. The number of businesses—currently about 33,385—is forecast to rise by 3% in five years. Profit margins remain healthy at around 13%, translating to approximately $96,417 per business, with total industry profits reaching $3.2 billion from 2019 to 2024.

Key performance drivers include housing market trends, climate-related pest proliferation, and heightened consumer awareness of pest-related health risks. Seasonal weather variations also influence service demand—for example, termite treatments tend to drop during droughts or milder seasons. Companies that can adjust their operations to these shifts while maintaining compliance with environmental standards are best positioned to succeed.

Looking ahead, the pest control industry’s growth will depend on its ability to adapt to evolving climate patterns, economic shifts, and regulatory landscapes. Firms that diversify their service offerings, invest in environmentally friendly pest management solutions, and leverage technology for improved efficiency will be best equipped to capture market share. Strategic planning with advisory partners like Blue Sky Exit Planning can help pest control companies benchmark their performance and position for long-term growth.

For a deeper dive into the key takeaways and to see how your business compares to industry benchmarks, contact Joe at Joe@blueskyexitplanning.com.

Citation:Jozkowski, E. (2024). 56171 Pest Control in the U.S. Industry Report. IBISWorld Industry Reports. https://www.ibisworld.com/

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