Top Cities with Rat Problems According to Yelp’s Infestation Index

Encountering a rat can be unsettling, but some areas seem to have more of them than others. According to Yelp’s “Infestation Index,” based on searches for “rodent services,” a few cities in the U.S. stand out. If you’re not a fan of these creatures, you might want to steer clear of these locations rife with rodents.

As temperatures rise, rats are finding it easier to thrive. This is especially true in “heat islands,” densely populated areas with limited green space, making cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and San Francisco more conducive to rat populations. With more residents comes more waste and food sources, allowing rodents to thrive. Warmer winters also mean extended breeding seasons, giving rats even more opportunities to expand their numbers.

If you own a home in any of these cities, you might encounter these troublesome pests, as they can cause significant damage—chewing through wires, drywall, and possibly spreading diseases like salmonellosis and hantavirus. The Norway rat and roof rat are the most common species found in the U.S., with the former favoring burrowing and the latter preferring to nest in higher spaces.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles takes the dubious prize for the highest rate of rat-related searches. Its mild climate and dense population create ideal conditions for these pests. Older homes provide ample nesting opportunities, as rats can easily maneuver through cracks. Past drought conditions have also led them to seek food and water indoors.

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is not far behind, experiencing rapid growth in its rat population, which researchers link to climate change and warmer temperatures. The city’s methods for managing this issue include distributing rat birth control in public parks—an innovative but somewhat peculiar approach.

New York City, New York

New York City is infamous for its rats, with estimates suggesting a population of around 3 million. The introduction of a “Rat Czar” aims to tackle this issue through measures like installing rat-proof trash cans and educating residents about waste disposal. Interestingly, these efforts have reportedly led to a decrease in rat sightings over the past year.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago has its own battles with rats, especially in neighborhoods with hidden alleyways that provide cover. One area, West Town, recorded the most rat sightings in 2025, with residents expressing concerns about the problem.

Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital also faces a significant rat issue, exacerbated by mild winters that allow rodent activity to persist. Residents have reported rats gnawing through flimsy trash bags in search of food. D.C. has introduced initiatives that use cats to help manage the rat population, which is an interesting strategy.

Seattle, Washington

Seattle has a unique challenge: residents have reported rats sneaking into homes through toilets, especially after heavy rains. The consistent moisture and plentiful food make the city attractive to Norway and roof rats.

Dallas, Texas

Dallas’ warm climate and rapid growth have contributed to its rat problem, as increased food waste creates more opportunities for these rodents. This city hosts various rat species, including the elusive wood rat, though you’re unlikely to encounter that one unless you’re out in the wild.

Austin, Texas

Austin isn’t far behind in terms of rat issues, either. As it experiences a building boom, rats are being displaced from their natural habitats and invading homes more frequently. Areas like Oak Hill and West Lake Hills have been flagged for frequent complaints.

Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix offers a balmy environment for rats, especially with consistent temperature and reliable food sources like fruit trees. Changes in weather can push them indoors, making it essential for residents to remain vigilant.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston, with its historic architecture, provides plenty of hiding places for rats. The city’s trash disposal rules allow for overnight waste left curbside, creating a tempting environment for rodents. Reports suggest they frequently make their way into the homes through aging sewer lines.

Portland, Oregon

Portland’s aging infrastructure encourages rat populations, and ongoing construction disrupts their habitats. With increasing composting, rats have access to easy food sources, leading to more sightings. Luckily, local authorities offer inspections to help residents manage the problem.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Finally, Philadelphia faces its own challenges with rats, particularly in neighborhoods like Roxborough, where sightings in homes and businesses are common. The city’s dense urban environment and climate changes contribute to a thriving rat community.