Termites are more common than you think. About 1 in 5 American homes will experience termite damage, yet many homeowners remain unaware of the risks until it’s too late. But termite infestation rates in the USA cities are not even. It depends on the type of termites, the climate, and the environmental conditions in the particular area.

Top 5 cities with the worst risk of termite infestation 

• 1. Miami
• 2. New York City
• 3. Tampa
• 4. San Diego
• 5. Dallas

What are the termite species present in the U.S.? 

There are several species of termite species but the ones common in the United States are listed below.

1. Subterranean termites 

They are the most destructive species of termites and also the most common in the United States. They live underground in the elaborate colonies they build and use mud tubes to reach the food sources that are above ground. This species of termite is found in every U.S. state except Alaska.

2. Drywood termites

This species of termites lives inside the wood they infest and does not need direct contact with the soil. Drywood termites are common in the coastal regions since they get their water from the wood that are usually slightly damp due to high humidity in the air.

3. Dampwood termites 

Dampwood termites are less common when compared to the other two. They live in moist wood and are mostly found on the Pacific coast.

Also Read: Identifying and Controlling Subterranean Termites

Regional infestation patterns 

Knowing the type of termites common in your area and the best termite treatment methods that are available to avoid the infestation can help you maintain your house termite-free. Here we detail the infestation patterns depending on the regions.

1. Southeast: Termite hotbed 

The southeastern United States has a warm and humid climate which serves as a perfect breeding ground for termites. Subterranean and Formosan termites are the most common species in this region.

States like Florida and Georgia have always reported high termite infestation rates. For example, a study conducted by the University of Florida found that over 50% of the structures present in Florida counties had experienced termite infestations.

Aggressive termite control measures are required for properties in these areas. Frequent termite inspections and termite prevention measures should be mandatory to avoid termite activity.

2. The West Coast: A rising concern

The warm and pleasant climate of California makes it inviting for subterranean and drywood termites. The drywood termites are prevalent in the coastal regions of California because of the warm and wet conditions.

In urban areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco, the termite problem is compounded by the presence of older wooden structures and also dense housing.

Regular termite inspections should be done and people should be aware of the prevention methods.

Also Read: Proven Termite Prevention Tips to Safeguard Your Home

3. The Northeast: An underestimated threat 

Despite the colder climates, the Northeast is not immune to termite problems. Subterranean termites can thrive in underground colonies, especially in urban areas, and can go undetected for years.

Cities like New York and Boston have been reporting increasing cases of termite damage in recent years. Because of the dense housing, termite treatment can get complicated. Hence prevention is the most important aspect to be considered.

4. The Midwest: Seasonal surges 

In the Midwest, termite infestation is more common in suburban areas where wooden homes are more common. States like Ohio and Missouri report significant subterranean termite activities but otherwise, termite activity in the Midwest is seasonal, with infestations peaking in spring and summer months.

Though the risk is not maximum, people should be aware of the termite risks and prevention methods available.

HiTech Termite Control 

As climate changes continue to impact weather patterns, termite activities may shift. Let our professionals at HiTech Termite Control handle the problem for you. We offer all kinds of termite control and prevention treatments. Contact us and get a free inspection. Visit our site here. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which cities in the U.S. have the highest risk of termite infestations? 

The top five cities with the worst risk of termite infestation are Miami, New York City, Tampa, San Diego, and Dallas.

2. What are the common termite species in the United States? 

The most common termite species in the U.S. are subterranean termites, drywood termites, and dampwood termites.

3. What type of termites are found in the Southeast U.S.? 

The Southeast U.S. is a hotbed for subterranean and Formosan termites due to its warm and humid climate. States like Florida and Georgia report high infestation rates.

4. Why are termites a concern on the West Coast? 

The warm and pleasant climate of California attracts subterranean and drywood termites, especially in coastal areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco, where older wooden structures are common.

5. Are termites a problem in the Northeast U.S.? 

Yes, despite the colder climate, subterranean termites can thrive in the Northeast, particularly in urban areas like New York and Boston, where they often go undetected for years.

6. How does termite activity vary in the Midwest? 

In the Midwest, termite infestations are more common in suburban areas with wooden homes, peaking in spring and summer months. States like Ohio and Missouri report significant subterranean termite activity.