Cockroach Season 2025: 5 Cities Facing Increased Cockroach Infestations

According to the latest Public Health Pest Index from the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), cockroach populations are on the rise across several U.S. cities. These resilient pests, which thrive in moist, warm environments, are benefiting from shifting weather patterns and creating concern among homeowners and public health officials alike.

Cockroaches are more than just unwelcome guests. They are known to spread disease-causing pathogens and can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms, particularly in children and sensitive individuals. With warmer temperatures and humidity on the rise this spring, many areas are poised for a surge in infestations.

American cockroach on a piece of bread

Cities at Risk for Rising Cockroach Activity in 2025

While rodents, ticks, and mosquitoes are also expected to see increased activity this season, the following cities have been specifically flagged in the NPMA's Index for heightened cockroach pressure:

1. Florida

As Florida emerges from a drier-than-usual start to winter, cockroaches are being driven indoors in search of food and moisture. With humidity and rainfall forecasted to rise this spring, residents statewide—from Miami and Orlando to Jacksonville and beyond—should prepare for an uptick in infestations as roaches seek shelter and ideal breeding conditions.

2. Cleveland, OH

Mild, soggy winter conditions have created an ideal environment for cockroach populations to thrive. As Cleveland transitions into spring, residents should expect to see more indoor sightings as pests capitalize on the warmth and moisture.

3. New Orleans, LA

The region’s historic snowfall has likely sent cockroaches indoors in search of shelter and warmth from the unexpected cold. With these pests already seeking refuge inside, residents should remain vigilant as conditions stabilize heading into spring.

4. San Antonio, TX

Record-breaking warmth throughout the winter has allowed cockroach populations to remain active in San Antonio. With warmer spring weather on the way, expect a surge in infestations and pest-related health concerns throughout the region. Residents should stay alert and proactive to avoid outbreaks in homes and businesses.

5. Seattle, WA

Seattle’s warm and dry winter may increase indoor cockroach activity as the pests seek out moisture and shelter. As spring rains arrive, residents may see a spike in sightings, especially in kitchens, basements, and bathrooms.

Cockroach-Related Health Risks

Cockroaches aren’t just creepy—they’re a serious health hazard. These pests thrive in warm, humid environments, particularly in cities and the southern U.S., and are known to infest homes, restaurants, hospitals, and food storage facilities. Their presence has been linked to the spread of dangerous bacteria and the triggering of chronic respiratory conditions like asthma and allergies. Below are the most significant health concerns associated with cockroach infestations:

Allergies and Asthma

Cockroaches produce allergen proteins found in their saliva, feces, urine, and body parts, which can trigger allergic reactions and asthma symptoms. These effects are especially common in children, though the elderly and urban residents are also at risk.

According to studies, 23% to 60% of urban residents with asthma are sensitized to cockroach allergens. Research has shown that exposure to cockroach allergens is strongly associated with:

Wheezing and persistent coughing

Missed school days

Sleepless nights

Unscheduled doctor visits and hospitalizations for asthma

The National Cooperative Inner-City Asthma Study (NCICAS) found that children with both a positive allergy test and high exposure to cockroach allergens at home were significantly more likely to experience severe asthma episodes. Adults aren't exempt either. Elderly individuals with cockroach allergies were also found to suffer more serious asthma complications.

Foodborne Illness and Bacterial Infections

Cockroaches often crawl through sewers, drains, garbage, and decaying matter, picking up bacteria, parasitic worms, and pathogens on their legs and bodies. Once inside a home or food facility, they can transfer those germs to kitchen counters, sinks, food prep areas, potentially leading to serious illness.

Cockroaches are known to spread:

33 types of bacteria, including E. coli and Salmonella

6 types of parasitic worms

At least 7 other types of human pathogens

These pathogens can cause food poisoning or gastroenteritis and other digestive infections with symptoms such as:

Severe abdominal pain and cramping

Diarrhea (sometimes bloody)

Nausea and vomiting

Dehydration requiring hospitalization in serious cases

In rare instances, bacteria introduced by cockroaches can enter the bloodstream and cause life-threatening infections.

How to Prevent Cockroach Infestations

Cockroaches are among the most persistent and difficult pests to eliminate once they’ve invaded your home. They thrive in warm, humid environments and are experts at hiding in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and even behind appliances or inside furniture. Fortunately, with a combination of sanitation, moisture control, and exclusion tactics, you can make your home a less inviting place for these unwelcome intruders.

1. Eliminate Food and Water Sources

Cockroaches are drawn to crumbs, spills, fermenting materials, and even pet food. Keeping your home clean and dry is essential to preventing an infestation. Best practices include:

Wipe down countertops, sinks, and tables daily

Sweep or vacuum floors regularly to remove crumbs

Store food in airtight containers—including pet food

Clean pet bowls and wipe up any spilled water or kibble

Don’t let dishes pile up in the sink

Keep ripe fruit in the refrigerator

Take out trash frequently and use sealed bins

2. Reduce Moisture and Humidity

Cockroaches can live for weeks without food, but they need water to survive. Focus on limiting indoor moisture by:

Repairing leaky pipes under sinks and appliances

Running water in unused sinks to prevent dry drain traps

Installing dehumidifiers in damp areas like basements and crawl spaces

Ventilating crawl spaces, attics, and other enclosed spaces

Checking under sinks, toilets, and tubs for signs of standing water or condensation

3. Seal Entry Points

Cockroaches can squeeze through gaps as small as 3/8 of an inch. Barrier exclusion helps keep them out of your home entirely. Be sure to:

Seal cracks in walls, floors, and foundations with silicone-based caulk

Install or replace weather stripping under doors and around windows

Close gaps around plumbing, electrical outlets, and utility access points

Inspect packages, grocery bags, and secondhand appliances before bringing them inside

4. Target Common Hiding Places

Cockroaches love dark, quiet spaces. Knowing where they hide can help you stay ahead of an infestation. Check:

Behind kitchen appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, and ovens

Inside cabinets, pantries, and under sinks

Around bathroom drains, baseboards, and cracked tiles

In basement corners, under storage boxes, or near floor drains

Inside or beneath furniture, picture frames, and electronics

5. Know the Signs of an Infestation

Spotting just one cockroach may indicate a larger issue. Be alert for:

Fast-moving insects that typically flee to dark areas when disturbed

Droppings in hidden areas, such as behind appliances or inside cabinets; these are small, dark, and pepper-like, or for American cockroaches, blunt on the ends with ridges on the sides

Egg capsules (oothecae) that are about 8 mm long and dark-colored; often found near food sources, basements, laundry rooms, and behind kitchen appliances

A musty odor, especially in areas with high cockroach activity or in homes with larger infestations

6. Call a Licensed Cockroach Pest Control Professional

Because cockroaches reproduce rapidly and can resist many DIY treatments, infestations are best handled by professionals. A licensed pest control expert can:

Properly identify the species (such as American or German cockroaches)

Locate nesting and harborage sites

Apply targeted treatments

Offer ongoing prevention plans

If your city is on the list, or even if it’s not, now is the time to take action. Cockroach season is heating up, and infestations can escalate quickly. If you’ve noticed signs of cockroach activity or simply want to safeguard your home, don’t wait. contact a qualified cockroach pest control provider in your area to inspect, treat, and prevent infestations before they spread.