Compare the highest-rated pest control professionals in Ithaca, New York. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Varment Guard is a highly-rated, service-focused company that excels in both residential and commercial pest and wildlife management. They are known for their prompt response, humane wildlife removal, and effective preventative solutions. They emphasize customer education and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
A local favorite, Magical Pest Control has built a strong reputation in the Finger Lakes region for reliable and effective service. They are praised for their thoroughness, friendly staff, and eco-friendly treatment options. They offer both one-time extermination and ongoing maintenance plans.
As a branch of a national brand, Terminix offers the resources and guarantees of a large corporation combined with local service technicians. They are a strong choice for comprehensive termite protection plans and commercial contracts, providing extensive warranties and a wide range of treatment options.
** The pest control market in Ithaca, NY, is characterized by a mix of highly-regarded local specialists and established national providers. The competition is robust, driving a generally high standard of service quality and customer care. Typical pests of concern in this region include rodents (mice, voles), ants (including carpenter ants), stinging insects, and wildlife like raccoons and squirrels, reflective of its location in the Finger Lakes with significant rural and wooded areas. Termite pressure is moderate but present. Pricing is competitive, with initial inspection fees often ranging from $100-$250. Ongoing preventative programs for general insects typically cost between $40-$80 per month or $400-$700 annually. Specialized services like termite treatment or wildlife exclusion are more capital-intensive, often ranging from $1,200 to $3,500+ depending on the property's size and infestation severity. Eco-friendly and pet-safe options are increasingly common and a point of differentiation for local companies catering to the community's values.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Ithaca regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about pest control services in Ithaca, New York.
Due to Ithaca's humid summers and cold winters, common pests include mice and rats seeking warmth in fall/winter, carpenter ants and termites in spring/summer, and stink bugs in the fall. The region's many wooded areas and proximity to water also contribute to issues with ticks, mosquitoes, and occasional wildlife like raccoons or squirrels. Understanding these seasonal patterns is key to preventative treatment.
Costs vary based on pest type, property size, and service plan. A one-time treatment for ants or wasps may range from $150-$350, while initial rodent control can be $250-$500. Ongoing quarterly preventative plans typically cost $50-$100 per visit. Ithaca's specific challenges, like treating for carpenter ants in older homes or managing pests in properties near gorges, can influence the final price.
Yes. All commercial pest control applicators in New York must be certified by the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Importantly, Tompkins County has regulations restricting the use of certain pesticides on lawns to protect the watershed, especially around Cayuga Lake. A reputable local provider will be fully versed in these rules and use compliant, targeted methods.
Prioritize companies licensed by NYS DEC with certified technicians. Look for strong local experience, as providers familiar with Ithaca's housing stock (from historic Victorians to newer developments) and microclimates will be more effective. Check for membership in state/national associations (NYSPMA, NPMA) and read reviews focusing on their communication and commitment to integrated pest management (IPM) strategies.
Given Ithaca's distinct seasons, preventative plans are highly recommended. Proactive treatments in early spring can create barriers against ants and spiders, while fall sealing and monitoring prevent rodent infestations as temperatures drop. This approach is often more cost-effective and less invasive than emergency treatments and is crucial for preventing structural pests like carpenter ants or termites that cause significant damage.