Every summer brings its share of uninvited guests – and we’re not just talking about in-laws. Pests of all kinds are on the move, and no matter where you live in the continental U.S., something’s bound to be buzzing, crawling, or nesting nearby.
While the weather this past winter varied dramatically across the country, one thing remains constant: pests adapt. Whether it was wet, dry, mild, or frigid, the conditions have quietly shaped what this summer’s infestations will look like.
Here’s what to keep an eye on, region by region – and more importantly, what you can do now to keep your home pest-free when things heat up.
Breakdown by Region
West (California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Colorado)
Key Pests: Rodents, carpenter ants, earwigs, termites, spiders, and mosquitoes
Why: The West is a land of extremes – wet winters in the Northwest, dry spells in the Southwest, and everything in between. Snow cover and damp soil can create nesting havens for pests like rodents and ants. In mountainous states like Idaho and Colorado, pests often shelter close to or inside homes during long winters.
Tips:
- Inspect crawlspaces and garages for early rodent signs.
- Clean gutters and ensure proper drainage away from the foundation.
- Store firewood off the ground and away from siding.
- Trim vegetation to prevent damp nesting spots.
Midwest (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Kansas, Nebraska, Dakota)
Key Pests: Ants (especially carpenter and moisture ants), mosquitoes, spiders, ticks, and wasps
Why: Many Midwestern homes sit near large yards, forests, or fields – ideal staging grounds for summer pests. Wet springs can supercharge mosquito breeding, while dry patches push ants and spiders indoors. As homes age, they become more vulnerable to moisture-related infestations.
Tips:
- Do a sweep for standing water around your yard after storms.
- Apply weather stripping and seal cracks around basement windows.
- Clear mulch and dense shrubs from touching your foundation.
- Schedule a termite inspection if your home is over 15 years old.
Northeast (New York, Pennsylvania, New England states)
Key Pests: Carpenter ants, boxelder bugs, stink bugs, rodents, and ticks
Why: The Northeast’s old housing stock, combined with wet springs or dry winters, gives pests plenty of places to hide. Dry winters often send pests searching for water and warmth, and homes are an easy target.
Tips:
- Fix any dripping pipes or damp spots under sinks – these attract pests fast.
- Keep window screens tight and undamaged, especially in older buildings.
- Store pantry items in airtight containers to deter roaches and rodents.
- Check for gaps around utility entry points and seal them.
South (Texas, Louisiana, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Carolinas, Tennessee, Arkansas, Oklahoma)
Key Pests: Mosquitoes, fire ants, roaches, fleas, termites, and ticks
Why: Warm, humid climates are a pest paradise. Mild winters often mean insects never stop breeding. Combine that with spring rains, and you’ve got the perfect conditions for swarms, bites, and surprise infestations.
Tips:
- Empty flowerpot trays, birdbaths, and any containers holding water.
- Keep pet food sealed and don’t leave dishes out overnight.
- Cut back tree branches that touch your home – pests use them as bridges.
- Have your yard treated early for ticks and fleas if you have pets.
Southwest (Arizona, New Mexico, parts of Texas, Southern California)
Key Pests: Scorpions, roaches, rodents, ants, spiders
Why: Dry winters and hot summers can drive pests indoors in search of moisture. Scorpions and ants are particularly active in desert areas, often hiding in shoes, garages, and under appliances.
Tips:
- Install door sweeps and seal cracks around doors and windows.
- Shake out shoes and towels if stored outdoors or in garages.
- Don’t overwater lawns – moist patches attract pests.
- Check attic vents and basement windows for proper screens.
Urban Areas Everywhere
Even if you’re surrounded by sidewalks instead of soil, pests still find a way in. Roaches, rodents, and bedbugs are common in apartment buildings, where they travel easily between units. And urban greenery – from community gardens to rooftop planters – can attract ants, spiders, and mosquitoes.
Tips:
- Take out trash regularly and keep bins sealed.
- Avoid overwatering balcony or rooftop plants.
- Keep floors and counters clean – even a few crumbs can attract pests.
- If you live in a multi-unit building, ask your landlord about routine pest inspections.
Final Thoughts
No matter the region, pests are part of summer – but they don’t have to be part of your home. Whether you’re dealing with mosquitoes in Mississippi or ants in Massachusetts, early prevention always beats a mid-July infestation.
Start inspecting now, tidy up outdoor areas, and stay alert for the first signs of movement. You’ll thank yourself later.
