How Much Does an Ant Exterminator Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Picture this: You walk into your kitchen and notice a trail of ants marching across the countertop. Before you know it, they've made themselves at home. Ant infestations can escalate quickly, but hiring a professional exterminator can help you reclaim your space. On average, you can expect to pay around $150 for ant extermination, with most services ranging between $80 and $500 for a single treatment. Knowing what to expect can help you budget for effective pest control to protect your home.

Ant Exterminator Cost Factors

Your ant extermination cost depends on several factors, like the extermination company you choose, how severe your infestation is, and the method used to eliminate the ants.

Brand

Different extermination companies may offer varying services and prices. Well-known brands like Orkin and Terminix provide professional ant control treatments that may include insecticides, baits, and other methods to eliminate ants from your home. Prices can range widely depending on the company, your home's size, and the severity of the infestation. For example, you might expect to pay between $150 and $1,400 for ant extermination services. It's a good idea to compare options to find the best fit for your needs and budget. Expect to pay at least $480 a year for four treatments.

Infestation Level

The severity of your ant infestation directly affects the cost. A minor infestation in one area will cost less to treat than a severe infestation spread throughout your home. Here's how infestation levels can impact your extermination costs:

Size and Number of Treatments

The size of your home and the number of treatments needed can impact your costs. A one-time ant extermination usually costs about $150. If your infestation is severe and requires multiple treatments, you might pay $100 to $120 per additional visit, totaling around $400 to $480 for four treatments annually. Some exterminators charge based on your home's square footage. For instance, treating a 2,000-square-foot home might cost between $150 and $330, while a 3,000-square-foot home could range from $230 to $500.

Extermination Method

The method used to eliminate ants will also affect the cost. Your exterminator will assess the type of ants and the location of the infestation before deciding on the best approach. Depending on the technique they use, you can expect to spend between $150 and $400.

Here are the average costs of some of the most common ant extermination methods.

Location

Where you live can affect extermination costs. Labor costs vary by region, and if you live in a rural area, you might have to pay extra for travel expenses. Additionally, some regions are more prone to certain types of ants. For example, fire ants are common in the Southern U.S., and dealing with them can be more expensive.

Ant Exterminator Costs by Type

The type of ants in your home can affect extermination costs. Some species are more difficult to eliminate, which can increase the price. Here's what you can expect for common ant types:

Carpenter Ants

Exterminating carpenter ants typically costs between $250 and $500. These ants are one of the most difficult to deal with, which is why the costs are higher. Carpenter ants are about 1/2 inch long and are black or black and red. If you've noticed large ants in your home, especially ones that emit a rotten coconut smell when crushed, you might have carpenter ants. They often nest in dead wood or tree stumps outside but may build satellite nests inside your home. Since they're tough to eradicate, it's a good idea to hire a professional exterminator.

Fire Ants

Getting rid of fire ants usually costs between $100 and $300. These ants are common in the southern U.S., and they're known for their aggressive behavior and painful stings. Fire ants are small, ranging from 1/16 to 1/4 inch long, and can be yellowish to reddish-brown or black. If you have fire ants on your property, it's best to contact a professional to handle them safely.

Pharaoh Ants

Eliminating pharaoh ants costs between $200 and $250. These tiny ants are about 1/16 inch long and can be difficult to remove because they often nest in hard-to-reach places like inside walls. They don't typically bite, but they can spread bacteria. Hiring a professional can ensure they're thoroughly eradicated.

Sugar Ants

Exterminators typically charge around $150 to eliminate sugar ants. These ants are attracted to sweets and can become a nuisance in your kitchen. They're about 1/2 inch long and are yellow and black. Addressing them early can prevent them from becoming a bigger problem.

Other Types of Ants

For other common ants, like Argentine ants, odorous house ants, thief ants, and rover ants, extermination typically costs around $150. Identifying the type of ant you're dealing with can help your exterminator choose the most effective treatment.

Budgeting for Ant Extermination

Getting rid of ants doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some practical tips to help you save money on ant extermination without compromising effectiveness:

• Act early: If you spot a few ants, try setting out ant traps or spraying areas with vinegar to deter them. Catching the problem early can save you money.

• Know when to call a pro: For fire ants or carpenter ants, it's best to hire a local exterminator promptly, as they can cause significant damage and are tough to eliminate on your own.

• Compare quotes: Reach out to several extermination companies to compare prices for exterminator services. This helps you find the best deal.

• Prepare your home: Clear clutter and obstructions around infestation areas before the exterminator arrives. This can reduce labor time and costs.

Preventive Maintenance

You can prevent future ant infestations by taking some simple steps. Hiring a local handyperson for around $60 to $125 per hour (plus materials) can help you seal cracks and make necessary repairs around your home. While your exterminator tackles the current ant problem, a handyperson can ensure that new ants don't find their way inside. Investing in preventive maintenance now can save you money and headaches down the road.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.