Compare the highest-rated pest control professionals in Ely, Minnesota. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Varmenta is a highly-rated, professional service specializing in both residential and commercial pest and wildlife control. They are known for their rapid response, humane wildlife removal, and effective, lasting solutions for insects and rodents. They offer comprehensive preventative plans and are a top choice for urgent infestations.
A global leader in pest control with a strong local presence, Ecolab offers robust commercial and residential programs. Their strength lies in integrated pest management (IPM), focusing on prevention and using advanced techniques for termites, cockroaches, and stored product pests. They are a trusted partner for businesses requiring stringent health and safety standards.
A well-established, family-owned pest control company based on the Iron Range. Bug Busters provides personalized service for a wide range of common household pests, including ants, spiders, and wasps. They are praised for their customer service, eco-friendly options, and effective residential pest management programs.
The pest control market in Ely, Minnesota, is characteristic of a small, rural community. There are very few, if any, pest control companies physically headquartered within the city limits of Ely. Consequently, the market is served primarily by established regional companies based in larger hubs like Duluth, Virginia, and Hibbing, which cover a wide service area across St. Louis County. The **competition level** is moderate among these regional providers, each carving out a niche—Varmenta in wildlife, Ecolab in commercial, and Bug Busters in residential insect control. The **average quality** is high, as these companies have built their reputations on serving the unique pest challenges of Northern Minnesota, including harsh winters that drive rodents indoors and a diverse population of wildlife. **Typical pricing** is competitive but can be higher than in urban centers due to travel distances. Initial inspection and one-time removal services (e.g., for wildlife) can range from $150 to $500+, while ongoing preventative maintenance programs for insects and rodents typically start between $40 and $80 per month. Customers should expect travel fees for service calls to Ely.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ely regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about pest control services in Ely, Minnesota.
In Ely, the most prevalent pests are mice, voles, and cluster flies seeking winter shelter, along with mosquitoes, ticks, and ants in the warmer months. Due to our harsh winters, late summer and early fall (August-October) are critical for preventing rodents from moving indoors, while spring and early summer are key for treating exterior ant colonies and managing biting insects before they become established.
The deep cold of Ely's winters means some pests, like ticks, are less prevalent than in southern Minnesota, but it also drives rodents and insects to seek refuge in structures aggressively. Proximity to vast wilderness areas means wildlife encounters (e.g., bats, squirrels) are more common, requiring humane exclusion techniques. Treatments must also be environmentally conscious, as many residents are concerned about runoff into our interconnected lakes and waterways.
Choose a provider licensed by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, which is required for commercial pesticide application. Look for experience with North Woods-specific pests like carpenter ants, which damage log homes, and ask about their wildlife exclusion services. A reputable local company will understand seasonal timing for our region and offer integrated pest management (IPM) approaches that minimize chemical use.
Costs vary based on property size and infestation severity. A one-time mouse/rodent exclusion and cleanup service for a standard Ely home typically ranges from $300-$600. Seasonal mosquito and tick barrier treatments, which are applied every 3-4 weeks from May to August, generally cost $70-$120 per treatment. Always request a detailed, in-person inspection and written quote specific to your property's needs.
Yes, Ely is within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) watershed, making responsible pesticide use crucial. Many lakeshore properties have specific setback requirements for chemical applications near water. Always inform your provider if your home is on a lake. For wildlife like beavers or bears, you may need to contact the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) in addition to a pest control professional, as they are protected species.