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We recommend the best products through an independent review process, and advertisers do not influence our picks. We may receive compensation if you visit partners we recommend. Read our advertiser disclosure for more info.

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How Much Does Mosquito Treatment Cost?

Average National Cost
? All cost data throughout this article are collected using the RSMeans construction materials database.
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$100 – $500

Find costs near you.

Updated On

October 18, 2023

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Mosquitoes are biting insects that cost millions of dollars each year to control. They’re not only troubling pests, but they also carry diseases. For that reason alone, it’s worth the cost to get rid of them.

The average cost for mosquito control services in the US is $300, ranging from $100 to $500.

National Average Average Cost RangeMinimum CostMaximum Cost
$300$100-$500$75$550

Our top recommendations are Orkin and Terminix. These companies use only highly trained professionals, so you know you’re likely to get the best results.

Our Pick
Terminix_logo

4.6

Over 90 years of experience

Nationwide service area

Free retreatments if pests return

GET ESTIMATES
Limited Time:
Get $50 OFF Pest Control Plan
Best Service Selection
orkin logo

4.7

Treats 20 types of pests

Offers instant online quotes

30-day money-back guarantee

GET ESTIMATES
Limited Time:
$50 Off First Service (GET50)

What Influences Mosquito Control Cost?

Size of your Property

If you have a 1/4 acre property or less, expect to pay an average of $300 to $400. For 1/2 acre to 1 acre, the price jumps to between $500 and $1,000.

This is due mostly to the increased insecticide sprays needed to complete the job. Also, the technician’s time is usually taken into account.

Amount of Vegetation Around the Home

Landscaping is an important point when attempting to reduce a mosquito population within a large area. Typically, the more vegetation you have around your house, the more you’ll pay for mosquito control.

There may also be an additional charge. And it may be based on the type of trees and shrubs you have around your home.

Sanitation

Let’s suppose your pest control person shows up for the first visit. They look out at your 1-acre property. They see nothing but weeds, standing water traps, and a sea of junk cars lying around. You’ll probably have to pay more than you expected.

Homeowners are usually surprised when they are told their yard needs attention. But this honest dialogue started by your technician is not to insult you. Mosquito control companies take their job seriously. For that reason, they’re going to speak with you honestly about what needs to be done.

Frequency of Service

Pest control companies typically have two types of mosquito service:

One-time service. This single spray treatment is usually done during the height of mosquito season. Most of the time, these service calls are for special events such as outdoor weddings and holiday cookouts. Expect to pay between $100 and $300 for this service.

Seasonal service. During the months between April and September, mosquitoes are the most active. So, instead of opting for a one-time treatment, homeowners will sign a short-term contract for mosquito treatment. And the distance between them is 21 days. Pricing for this type of option varies but typically runs from $400 up to $1,000.

Methods Used

Most reputable pest control companies utilize a combined approach when getting rid of your mosquito problem. They use a variety of treatment options, such as:

  • Outdoor mosquito spray utilizing a special misting system
  • Mosquito barrier sprays
  • Microbial insecticide treatments
  • Insect growth regulators
  • Mosquito traps
  • Sanitation and mechanical control

These are just some of the tools available to a professional mosquito control tech. Be wary of companies that charge for each process. All of these techniques should be used to gain control of mosquitoes around your home or business.

Time of Year

During the slower winter season, you may gain an advantage by signing up for a mosquito control program. This could save a lot of money by beating the summer rush. And you may be able to get as much as 30% off.

This strategy only works if the pest control company is willing to honor the contract four to five months after signing. For that reason, it’s best to go with an exterminator with a stellar reputation.

One-time visit
This one-time treatment includes an inspection, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up (if needed), costing $150 to $350.
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Monthly service
Averaging $125 to $300 for an initial visit, this service includes inspections and treatments, costing between $50 to $75
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Annual service
A recurring service that provides regular inspections and treatments once a year, costing between $125 to $500.
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Signs and Causes of Infestation

Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water areas. These can include natural ponds and lakes. Some species prefer human-made water sources such as dirty pools and rain barrels. The female mosquito will typically bob up and down over the water to deposit her eggs.

Some mosquitoes prefer dryer areas for breeding. These include the inside of old tires, a hollowed-out tree stump, or a bucket left out in the back yard. Some mosquitoes will even lay their eggs in shallow depressions of live plant leaves.

Hatching doesn’t take place until the eggs are flooded with water. This could take several weeks or even months. Once hatched,  the larval and pupal stages begin.

One female can lay over 200 eggs in a lifetime. And in some species, a single mating pair can produce thousands of mosquitoes.

Population levels increase quickly when there are several breeding areas present. For example, a backyard that’s filled with abandoned machinery, tires, and other debris is ideal for mosquitoes. The next warm rain could produce millions of offspring.

Overgrown vegetation could also be a sign that an infestation is about to happen. Water trapped in crabgrass and broadleaf plants are perfect breeding areas. All that’s needed is water from a rainstorm or sprinkler system. This will lure a female mosquito to lay her eggs on the waiting leaves.


Health Risks of Mosquitoes

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are several health risks with mosquito bites. Here are some examples:

West Nile Virus

Mosquitoes transmit the West Nile virus to humans and animals. The primary hosts of the disease are birds. So, the virus is said to have a bird-mosquito-bird disease cycle.

The virus causes West Nile fever in humans. The common symptoms of the infection include:

  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Chills
  • Fatigue
  • Joint pain
  • Nausea and vomiting

What’s surprising is that there’s no standard treatment for West Nile fever. However, in most cases, the patient makes a full recovery. And there are only a few deaths reported worldwide.

Zika

While mosquitoes are the main carrier of the Zika virus, the host species is still unknown. The most recent outbreak worldwide was in 2016.

And the last known case in the US was in 2017. However, some scientists believe we are due for another outbreak within the next 20 years.

The biggest problem with Zika is that the last surge in cases came and went so fast. Not enough data was collected. So, there are still a lot of questions to be answered.

Here’s what we know now:

  • Most people only have mild symptoms
  • Zika is closely related to dengue and yellow fever
  • Mothers can pass on the virus to their babies. This can sometimes cause ill health effects
  • The virus is passed on by mosquitoes mostly from tropical areas

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)

EEE is a virus transmitted by mosquitoes, with the hosts being various bird species. The very few cases in the US each year are from the southeastern states.

Of the reported cases, 33% end in death. And most of the older survivors of the disease suffer permanent brain damage.

Symptoms of EEE include:

  • Fever
  • Muscle pain
  • Headache
  • The person is sensitive to light
  • Seizures

There are vaccines for horses. But there are no vaccines or treatments for humans. So, the best way to combat the illness is by avoiding mosquito bites.


DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

If you’re going to do your own mosquito control, you want to think like a pest controller. This will give you the best chance for keeping your yard mosquito-free.

And you will most likely chase the mosquitoes away. You will also be keeping your home safe for children and pets.

Start with Mosquito Breeding Areas

Orkin starts with an inspection of the entire area. The pest control person is looking for standing water areas where mosquito larvae form.

You may not know where all of them are. But with practice, you’ll develop an eye for these stagnant water traps. Clearing the back yard of old tires and other debris will help keep these small pools of water from forming.

Biological Controls for Mosquitoes

Once these important sanitation problems are addressed, It’s time to treat the water areas you can’t eliminate. Companies like Aptive Environmental will use a larvicide for birdbaths, ponds, and drains. These EPA-approved granules are placed directly into the water to lower the mosquito’s life cycle.

Knock ’em out with One Punch

Pest control companies like Terminix will target adult mosquitoes with a knockdown pesticide using a commercial sprayer. These are mostly pyrethrins or pyrethroids naturally produced from chrysanthemum pedals. And although these substances are often used as insect repellent, they can be useful for long-term control as well.

Utilizing Insect Growth Regulators

Mosquito control companies know first hand the value of controlling this biting insect long term. That’s why the best ones rely on insect growth regulators (IGRs).

These mosquito-eliminating products are special kinds of insecticides that disrupt the mosquito’s reproductive cycle. They also work by blocking each stage of an insect’s life cycle.

Tips for Effective DIY Mosquito-free Living

Here are a few important guidelines to follow when getting rid of mosquitoes on your own:

  • Consider proper sanitation measures before applying pesticides
  • Always use the mildest treatment first
  • Avoid spraying directly on flowers where honey bees land
  • Spray only during calm wind conditions

You May Want to Consider a Professional

If, after careful thought, you don’t want to go it alone, that’s fine too. Many exterminators near you are waiting for their chance.

They’ll show you how great they are at getting rid of mosquitoes. That’s why, in the next section, we’ll show you the process used by the most reputable pest control companies for doing just that.

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What’s the Standard Mosquito Treatment Process?

The best companies have a complete process for leading you down the path to a mosquito-free home. And in most cases, it works very well. Here are a few of the highlights of what to expect when hiring a pest control company.

Inspection

Almost all pest techs are going to start with a thorough inspection. This task usually takes from 10 to 15 minutes to complete. The idea is to find as many mosquito breeding areas as possible.

Recommendations

Once the inspection is over, the technician will recommend things you can do to help the cause. For example, that kiddie pool you have in the backyard may need to go. Besides, your kids outgrew it a long time ago.

But whatever the problem, take it seriously. And above all, don’t take it personally.

Plan of Action and Quote

In most cases, the tech will let you in on the plan of action. They’re trained to do this to help build value in the service. So, it’s best to be careful here.

Don’t let the company go too overboard with their so-called deluxe service package. Remember, you have a say in the process as well.

Most companies offer a free quote, while others will charge to come to your home for the estimate. It’s always best to ask before setting up the appointment over the phone.

Microbial Insecticide Treatment

Once the terms are agreed to, and the contract is signed, it’s time to go to work. Usually, the first part of the treatment involves reducing the number of breeding areas. This is done by getting rid of water traps.

It also includes the use of biological controls for mosquitoes. The most readily available are granular microbial insecticides used in standing water ponds, pools, and birdbaths. These products help reduce the lifecycle of mosquito eggs and larvae while in the water.

Spray Treatment

A pro pest controller will often mix an adulticide with an insect growth regulator. This provides maximum control. The mixture is then sprayed on trees, bushes, and shrubs where mosquitoes typically breed.

Most techs are smart enough to keep children and pets away during the treatment process. But it can become easy for a pro to become too focused on the task.

So, it’s good to keep a watch out for anyone wandering into the area. And you don’t want kids or pets around. The tech may accidentally spray them, and you don’t want that.

Continuous-use Products

Some pest control people focus on keeping the mosquitoes away while reducing the need for widespread pesticide use. For example, mosquito traps have become widely popular in the last few years.

They utilize carbon dioxide or UV light.  These attractants lure the insect to an awaiting sticky board. Once in, the mosquito becomes trapped for good.

Another great product for keeping mosquitoes out of a backyard is the time-release misting system. These auto-controlled foggers mount to fences and houses. They provide scheduled treatments with an insecticide labeled for mosquitoes.

The problem with these devices is that they are not legal in all states right now. So, it’s best to check your local laws to see what’s allowed in your area.

Follow-up Treatments

Follow-up treatments are often needed to control mosquitoes fully. The technician typically re-treats the affected area.

They will also check equipment such as bug zappers, traps, and misters. These are normally placed on the property during the first visit.

It’s important to understand what the contract states about follow-up service calls. Some companies offer them, and some don’t. So, it’s best to ask about them before signing the service contract.


Final Thoughts on Mosquito Treatment Costs

It’s possible to save a lot of money by getting rid of your mosquito problems yourself. However, it’s important to make a list of all costs concerning your DIY project. This includes all of the time and materials.

But you still may want to hire someone to get rid of your mosquitoes. In that case, it’s best to use an honest company in your area.

Get Your Free Quote In Seconds

Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.

Our pest experts review each company for quality, cost, customer service, safety, and 100’s of other important factors and assess a rating out of 100. Below are our top 4 picks based on that review for pest removal. We’ve set up a direct line with each company so you can get fast free quotes right now.

Top Pick
Terminix_logo

4.6

90+ years of experience

Nationwide service area

Free treatments if pests return

VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
Get $50 OFF Pest Control Plan
Best Service Selection
orkin logo

4.7

Treats 20 types of pests

Offers instant online quotes

30-day money-back guarantee

VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
$50 Off First Service (GET50)
Best Additional Services

4.3

Treats 20 types of pests

Offers instant online quotes

30-day money-back guarantee

VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
$50 Off Year-Round Pest Control
Best Mosquito Plan

4.0

Treats 20 types of pests

Offers instant online quotes

30-day money-back guarantee

VISIT SITE
Limited Time:
$150 Off With Code WEB150

Editorial Contributors
avatar for Ed Spicer

Ed Spicer

Ed has been working in the pest control industry for years helping 1,000's of homeowners navigate the world of insect and rodent management.

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Lora Novak

Senior Editor

Lora Novak meticulously proofreads and edits all commercial content for Today’s Homeowner to guarantee that it contains the most up-to-date information. Lora brings over 12 years of writing, editing, and digital marketing expertise. She’s worked on thousands of articles related to heating, air conditioning, ventilation, roofing, plumbing, lawn/garden, pest control, insurance, and other general homeownership topics.

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