Los Angeles is ranked as America’s "rattiest city" on Orkin’s latest Top 50 Rattiest Cities List, surpassing Chicago, which is now No. 2. The city has year-round warm weather and busy neighborhoods, according to PRNewswire.
Orkin's annual list, covering new rodent control services in owner-occupied homes from August 2024 to August 2025, shows changes in urban rat populations. Detroit moved up to No. 7 from No. 8, and Michigan’s Grand Rapids and Flint also appeared on the list, as reported by FOX 2 Detroit. California had the most cities listed, with Los Angeles first, San Francisco at No. 4, Sacramento at No. 19, and San Diego at No. 24. "With year-round warm weather, a booming culinary scene and dense neighborhoods that offer ample access to food and shelter, the City of Angels checks every box for rodent survival," as per CBS News Detroit.
"Rats and mice are more than a nuisance—they’re opportunists," said Orkin entomologist Ian Williams, as mentioned by PRNewswire. As the weather cools, rodents may seek shelter indoors. Orkin advises sealing entry points, keeping food indoors, avoiding clutter, fixing leaks, and maintaining trash containers. Their mnemonic GNAW stands for Guard entry points, Never leave food outside, Avoid clutter, and Watch for signs of rodents. Regular inspections and these steps can help prevent infestations.
