Miami worst place for dealing with termites, three other Florida cities make top 10: study
MIAMI – Four Florida cities – Miami, Tampa, Orlando and West Palm Beach – have been named some of the worst places for termite infestation, giving state homeowners just another headache to deal with thanks to the unwanted pests.
Analyzed by Orkin, the study ranked Miami in the top spot for the second consecutive year out of 50 U.S. cities.
Tampa, not fairing much better, also placed third while Orlando and West Palm Beach ranked eighth and ninth, respectively.
In addition, Fort Myers finished in 33rd place, jumping 16 spots. Jacksonville also placed inside the top 50, coming in 37th place.
“Termites are known as ‘silent destroyers’ because they can thrive in your home for months or even years before they’re acknowledged,” Entomology Director Glen Ramsey said. “These pests are difficult to detect, which is why it’s important for homeowners to take preventative action. The experts at Orkin are prepared to create a tailored plan for your specific needs.”
Commonly used for pest control, Orkin collected its data by where the company performed the most termite treatments. The study specifically was between Feb. 1, 2023 and Jan. 31, 2024.
Los Angeles, California sandwiched in-between Miami and Tampa in second place. New York City, New York and Washington, D.C. also rounded out in the top 5.
Out of the 50 spots, Augusta, Georgia placed last followed by Chattanooga, Tennessee; Waco, Texas; Roanoke, Virginia; and Savannah, Georgia.
While travelers often visit Florida for its heat and humidity, it also can be common place for termites. The insects thrive in warm weather, giving Florida owners more reason to have their homes inspected going into springtime.
According to Orkin, there are more than 2,000 species of termites, including 40 in the U.S. Sometimes confused with ants, termites measure between ¼ to ½ an inch long and have soft bodies with straight antennae.
Specifically, termites range in color from white to light brown, while worker termites are lighter compared to winged reproductive termites or swarmers.
While small and often difficult to see, termites can leave plenty of clues for detection. They include cracked or bubbling paint or frass (termite droppings), as well as hollowed wood when tapped, mud tubes on exterior walls, wooden beams, and in crawl spaces.
To help owners, Orkin provided ways to prevent termite infestation, which include limiting moisture by fixing pipes, gutters, downspouts, A/C units and other fixtures susceptible to leaking. The company also recommends closing gaps with caulk around utility lines or pipes, removing rotted wood or debris, placing screens on outside vents, and checking wooden structures for damage.
“Termites don’t just destroy wooden homes. They can damage buildings made from a variety of materials, and can get access through porches, downspouts, and even the landscaping around the property,” Orkin said.
