Atlanta isn’t just home to Southern hospitality; it’s also one of the worst places for rats. A new report from Terminix places the city in the top 10 most rodent-infested locations in the U.S. for 2023. For locals, this could mean more than just the occasional sighting—it’s a growing issue that could impact public health and property.

🐀 Why It Matters: Rodents aren’t just a minor annoyance. They carry diseases, destroy property, and contaminate food supplies. With Atlanta making the list, residents might want to take proactive steps to keep their homes and businesses rodent-free.

📈 What’s Happening: Terminix ranked Atlanta as the ninth most rodent-infested city in the nation. The combination of a mild climate, dense population, and easy access to food sources makes the city an ideal spot for rats and mice. This puts Atlanta in competition with major metros like New York and Los Angeles in terms of rodent problems.

Atlanta ranks 9th in rodent control services in 2023.
Other top Georgia cities, including Savannah and Augusta, face similar pest issues, though on a smaller scale.

🔍 Between the Lines: Atlanta’s rapid urban development and ongoing population growth are likely contributors to its rodent problem. The more people there are, the more food and waste are available to attract these pests.

📉 Catch Up Quick: Georgia has been battling rodents for years, and this isn’t the first time Atlanta has made the list. According to pest control experts, cities with warm climates and poor sanitation practices tend to be hit the hardest.

🌎 The Big Picture: As Atlanta continues to grow, so do its rodent problems. It’s not just about sightings of rats in alleys or mice in homes—it’s a public health concern. Rodents spread diseases like leptospirosis and salmonella, making proper pest control not just a convenience but a necessity. For Atlanta residents, staying vigilant and keeping homes secure is essential to avoiding infestations.