What state has the worst rodent problem?

Determining which state has the worst rodent problem depends on how you measure it, such as number of pest control service calls, rodent-related health department complaints, or density of urban rat populations, but several states consistently rank high for rodent activity. According to pest control industry reports that track service calls for rats and mice, states with large urban centers, older housing, cold winters that drive rodents indoors, and dense populations tend to have the worst problems. California often ranks high due to its large cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco with older infrastructure, mild climate that allows year-round breeding, and extensive agriculture that provides food. New York is also known for a major rat problem, especially New York City, which has millions of rats and frequent rodent complaints. Illinois, particularly Chicago, consistently appears at the top of rattiest cities lists due to its cold winters, alleyways, and older buildings. Other states with significant rodent problems include Texas, Florida, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. In terms of cities, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, Washington DC, and San Francisco are frequently cited as having the worst rat problems. Rural states may have more deer mice and field mice that carry hantavirus. So while there is no single official worst state, California, New York, and Illinois are often cited as having the most rodent pressure due to urban density and climate.