Los Angeles Tops Yelp’s List of Most Rat-Infested Cities in the U.S.
LOS ANGELES (KABC) — A new report from business review company Yelp has named Los Angeles as the most rat-infested city in the United States. According to Yelp’s Fall Infestation Index report, Los Angeles’s densely populated neighborhoods offer perfect hiding spots for these tiny trespassers, especially as ongoing drought conditions drive wildlife closer to homes in search of food and water.
San Francisco ranked second on the list, while New York — famous on social media for its well-known rodent population — came in third. At the other end of the spectrum, Honolulu, Hawaii, earned the title of the least rat-infested city among the 20 evaluated.
Click here to see the full list.
Costs and Risks of Rodent Infestations
Rodent control and removal services typically cost around $225, but if an infestation worsens, it could lead to hundreds of dollars in additional expenses down the road. With cooler autumn temperatures approaching, rodents will seek warmth inside homes, squeezing through the tiniest gaps to gain entry.
Yelp’s Tips to Keep Rodents Out
- Seal entry points: Close gaps around vents, doors, pipe openings, foundation cracks, and window frames.
- Reduce clutter: Clear away nesting materials such as cardboard, fabric, and old newspapers.
- Maintain cleanliness: Keep trash containers closed, promptly clean up spilled snacks, and store all food—including pet food—in airtight containers.
“As the seasons change, it’s smart to schedule a professional rodent inspection, especially if your home is older or located near parks or wooded areas,” Yelp advises.
