Sacramento Ranks 15th for Rodent Activity
Local homeowners should look for signs of pests after Sacramento climbed in the national rankings this year.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Home Cleaning
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Sacramento now ranks as the 15th most rodent-infested city in the United States according to a new report. This marks a shift in pest activity for local homeowners compared to the city’s 20th-place standing in 2024.
Why it matters
High population density and accessible food sources continue to drive rodent activity in the area, creating potential health risks for families. Identifying these signs early is essential for preventing infestations from becoming more severe as local pest pressure rises.
Terminix analyzed data from over 300 branches nationwide to rank 50 cities by the frequency of rodent control service calls. Sacramento moved up to the 15th spot on this annual list, rising from its 20th-place rank in 2024.
The players
Terminix
A national pest control company that provides residential and commercial extermination services.
The details
The ranking is based on how often residents across the country utilize professional rodent control services throughout the year. Rodents are attracted to urban environments by high human population density, which provides ample food availability and numerous potential hiding places for nesting. Homeowners should look for common indicators of presence, including droppings, gnaw marks on household materials, scratching sounds behind walls, and dark rub marks along baseboards or entry points.
Timeline
2024: Sacramento held the 20th spot on the list of rat-infested cities.
Past year: Data on rodent control service usage was collected by Terminix.
The Home Front
This ranking follows the pattern set by Terminix's annual rodent infestation city rankings in documenting rising pest activity in urban centers. It reflects a broader trend of increased reliance on professional pest management services in major metropolitan areas.
Inspect your home’s perimeter for small gaps or holes where rodents could enter and ensure food is stored in sealed, airtight containers. If you notice signs of activity like gnaw marks or droppings, contact a licensed professional to evaluate the scope of the pest entry.
The takeaway
Understanding that Sacramento has moved up in the national rodent activity rankings highlights the need for consistent home maintenance. Keep a watchful eye for rub marks or scratching sounds, as early detection is the most effective way to protect your household from potential infestations.
Further reading
For tips on keeping pests out of your residence, see more in our Home Cleaning section.
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Is rodent activity becoming a bigger problem in your community than it was a year ago?
