As temperatures rise in New York, so does pest activity. The combination of heat, humidity, and increased outdoor activity makes summer prime time for unwanted critters to invade homes and businesses across the city. Whether you’re in a high-rise in Manhattan or a brownstone in Brooklyn, pest problems don’t discriminate.
Here are the top five pests New Yorkers commonly face during summer—and what you can do to keep them out.
1. Cockroaches
Cockroaches are a year-round problem in the city, but summer brings a spike in activity. Warmer weather speeds up their breeding cycles, and increased food waste during cookouts or parties gives them plenty of reasons to stick around.
How to Keep Them Out:
- Seal cracks and crevices around baseboards, plumbing, and walls.
- Keep kitchens clean and dry—roaches are attracted to crumbs, grease, and moisture.
- Take out the trash daily and use bins with tight-fitting lids.
- Fix any leaky pipes or standing water sources.
Once roaches get in, they’re hard to evict. If you see one during the day, it likely means there’s a bigger problem hiding in the walls.
2. Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are more than a nuisance; they can carry diseases like West Nile virus. They thrive in warm, humid environments and breed in standing water, which makes New York’s summer climate perfect for them.
How to Keep Them Out:
- Remove standing water from pots, buckets, gutters, and birdbaths.
- Use window screens and repair any holes or gaps.
- Wear insect repellent if you’re spending time outdoors, especially at dawn or dusk.
- Consider citronella candles or mosquito traps for patios and balconies.
In densely populated neighborhoods, all it takes is one forgotten planter to trigger a mosquito boom—so community effort matters.
3. Ants
When it gets hot, ants start looking for food and water indoors. Pavement ants are especially common in New York and can quickly turn into a kitchen infestation.
How to Keep Them Out:
- Clean up food spills and crumbs immediately.
- Store pantry items in sealed containers.
- Identify and seal entry points like wall cracks or gaps under doors.
- Use natural deterrents like vinegar or lemon juice along entry paths.
Once ants establish a trail, they communicate it to the whole colony—so quick action is key.
4. Flies
From fruit flies to house flies, these pests are not only annoying but also unsanitary. They’re drawn to garbage, food waste, and pet waste—things that are often more accessible during the summer.
How to Keep Them Out:
- Clean drains regularly, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Keep fruit in the fridge instead of on the counter.
- Take out the trash frequently and use sealed containers.
- Install door screens and keep them closed.
Fruit flies can lay hundreds of eggs in overripe fruit, so it’s best to dispose of it before it becomes an invitation.
5. Rodents
While rats and mice are usually more active in fall and winter, summer construction projects often displace them and drive them into residential buildings. Food carts and overflowing trash cans also draw them out during warmer months.
How to Keep Them Out:
- Block all entry points, including gaps around utility pipes and vents.
- Store food (including pet food) in chew-proof containers.
- Clean up outdoor eating areas and grill stations immediately after use.
- Don’t leave pet bowls or birdseed out overnight.
Signs of a rodent issue include droppings, gnaw marks, and scratching sounds in walls—don’t ignore them.
Final Thoughts: Prevention Is Your Best Weapon
New York summers are short, but pests can make them feel even shorter. Preventive action, cleanliness, and vigilance go a long way toward keeping your home pest-free. If you’re seeing signs of an infestation or just want peace of mind, consider scheduling a professional inspection.
The city may never sleep—but with a good pest control strategy, you can. We recommend pest control in new york.
