Los Angeles, California Rank 2 Rat Infested City in the USA

You’re tasked with identifying the most rodent-ridden city in the United States. If your childhood was filled with “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” episodes, New York City might leap to mind. After all, the animated series features heroes emerging from the sewers and a wise rat as their mentor—seemingly drawing from the city’s urban legends.

Beyond nostalgic cartoon references, New York’s rodent reputation was cemented further in the public’s imagination by the viral “Pizza Rat” video. Captured by Matt Little in 2015, the footage showcasing a rat hauling a pizza slice down a subway staircase has amassed over 12.4 million views.

This rat’s quest for a cheesy meal even sparked a peculiar trend, inspiring a risqué Halloween costume that gained notable attention online.

If New York City was your guess for the most rat-infested metropolis, you’d be close—it ranks third according to pest control giant Orkin’s latest findings.

However, Los Angeles has recently outpaced it, securing the dubious honor of being named the second most rat-infested city in the U.S. This title positions Los Angeles as the foremost haven for rodents in the western United States, marking a significant climb from its previous ranking.

Orkin’s unsettling lineup is designed to alert homeowners to the significant threats posed by rodents. Seeking refuge from the cold, these pests often infiltrate residential and commercial properties in search of sustenance and warmth.

Their presence extends beyond mere nuisance; rodents are notorious for causing severe damage by gnawing through electrical wiring, plumbing, and even gas lines, posing substantial risks to property and safety.

The rankings were determined based on the number of new rodent treatment operations carried out by Orkin’s technicians in various metropolitan areas between September 1, 2022, and August 31, 2023.

Chicago continues to lead the pack, notorious for its rodent issues, evidenced by the “Chicago Rat Hole” phenomenon. This marks the ninth consecutive year the Windy City has topped the list.

While Los Angeles takes the spotlight for its unwelcome rodent population, it’s not the only California city facing such challenges. San Francisco, another major urban area, trails closely, securing the fifth spot on Orkin’s list.

Meanwhile, San Diego has seen a notable improvement, descending nine ranks to 28th position. Conversely, Sacramento’s situation has worsened, ascending seven ranks to become the 33rd most rat-infested city in the United States.

The rise of Los Angeles in this infamous ranking highlights a broader issue facing many of America’s largest cities. As these urban centers grapple with increasing rodent populations, the importance of vigilant pest control and public awareness has never been more critical.

Homeowners and city officials alike are urged to take proactive steps to mitigate the risks and spread of these unwelcome inhabitants.