Compare the highest-rated pest control professionals in Salem, Missouri. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Cook's is a regional powerhouse with a long-standing reputation for reliability and comprehensive service. They are one of the most recognized names in pest control across the Missouri and Arkansas region. They offer extensive residential and commercial programs, including their well-known "Cooks Cares" preventative maintenance plan.
A national brand with a strong local branch, Orkin provides the backing of a large corporation with trained local technicians. They are known for their scientific approach to pest control and offer a wide array of services, including specialized wildlife and bed bug solutions. Their commercial division is particularly robust.
While headquartered in St. Louis, Rottler has a significant service area that robustly covers Salem and is a major competitor in the mid-Missouri market. They are highly rated for customer service and offer both pest control and lawn care services, providing a convenient option for homeowners seeking bundled services.
** The pest control market in Salem, Missouri, is characteristic of a rural-serving city. It features a limited number of locally-based physical offices, with the dominant presence being **Cook's Pest Control**, which has a dedicated facility in the city. The competition is filled out by major regional and national providers like **Orkin** and **Rottler**, who service Salem from their nearby branches in Rolla and St. James. This creates a competitive environment that benefits consumers through a choice between a deeply local provider and larger companies with extensive resources. The average quality of service is high, as the companies operating here are established, licensed, and have built reputations over many years. Pricing is generally competitive and in line with regional averages. A standard quarterly preventative treatment for insects for an average-sized home can range from **$100 to $150 per treatment**, while one-time services for specific issues like rodent or wildlife removal typically start at **$250-$500**. Termite treatments and bed bug extermination are more complex and can cost significantly more, often ranging from **$1,200 to $2,500+** depending on the severity and size of the property. Most reputable companies offer free inspections and quotes.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Salem regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about pest control services in Salem, Missouri.
Due to Salem's humid continental climate and proximity to the Mark Twain National Forest, common pests include termites (especially subterranean), ants (including carpenter ants), spiders, rodents, and occasional ticks or stinging insects. Seasonal timing is key: termite swarms typically occur in spring, ants invade in spring and fall, and rodents seek shelter in late fall. A proactive, year-round prevention plan is highly recommended to address these cyclical infestations.
Costs vary based on service type, property size, and infestation severity. For example, a standard quarterly exterior treatment for general pests (ants, spiders) for an average-sized home may range from $100-$150 per visit. A one-time rodent exclusion or a termite treatment using local methods like termiticide soil barriers can be a significant investment, often starting between $1,200-$2,500. Always get itemized, written estimates from licensed local providers.
Yes. Missouri law requires all individuals applying pesticides for hire to be licensed by the Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA). Always verify that the company and its technicians hold current MDA licenses. Additionally, for termite treatments, reputable companies will provide a detailed termite warranty that is often required by lenders during a home sale, a crucial consideration in Salem's real estate market.
Prioritize companies with strong local reputations, verified MDA licensing, and specific experience with Salem's common pests like termites and carpenter ants. Ask for local references, proof of insurance, and detailed service agreements. A trustworthy provider will offer a free, on-site inspection to properly identify issues and discuss a customized plan, rather than giving a generic quote over the phone.
For minor, isolated issues, DIY may offer temporary relief. However, for recurring infestations or serious threats like termites, rodents, or carpenter ants, professional service is strongly advised. Local professionals have access to more effective materials and possess critical knowledge of local pest behavior and Missouri's building codes for proper treatment, which is essential for long-term protection and preserving your home's value.