Los Angeles Retains Top Spot on Orkin's 2026 Rattiest Cities List
For the second consecutive year, Los Angeles holds the top position on Orkin’s annual ranking of the nation’s rattiest cities. The ranking, which tracks new residential rodent treatment data, highlights a persistent struggle against infestations in major metropolitan areas where mild climates and dense infrastructure provide ideal conditions for rodents to thrive.
While Los Angeles remains at the forefront, the 2026 data reveals significant shifts in rodent activity across the United States. Chicago and New York City retain their second and third positions, respectively, followed by San Francisco and Washington, D.C. Orkin’s report, based on treatment activity from August 2025 to August 2026, notes that smaller municipalities are experiencing rapid changes in pest pressure. Albuquerque, New Mexico, recorded the most dramatic surge, climbing 12 spots to reach number 31, while Nashville, Tennessee, and Albany, New York, each rose 10 places.
Dr. Shannon Sked, National Technical Director at Orkin, emphasizes that no specific climate serves as a safeguard against rodent pressure, as these animals are highly adaptable. As temperatures decline, the likelihood of rodents seeking shelter inside residential properties increases. Experts advise homeowners to focus on sealing potential entry points, managing food waste, and eliminating standing water to mitigate risks. Beyond structural damage to walls and electrical wiring, unchecked infestations present significant health concerns, including the potential spread of diseases such as salmonellosis and leptospirosis.
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