Top 10 Most Common Pests in Phoenix, AZ (And How to Stop Them)
If you live in Phoenix, you’re probably no stranger to unwanted pests sneaking into your home, garage, or yard. With our dry desert climate, sudden monsoon rains, and year-round warmth, the Valley of the Sun is a hotspot for all kinds of creepy crawlers.
Whether you’re a new homeowner or a seasoned desert dweller, this guide will help you understand the most common pests in Phoenix—and what you can do to keep them away for good.
1. Arizona Bark Scorpions
These are the most venomous scorpions in the U.S. and are incredibly common in Phoenix. They’re nocturnal, love hiding in dark, cool places, and can sting when threatened—making them especially dangerous to children and pets.
How to Protect Your Home:
- Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and foundations
- Clear clutter indoors and outdoors
- Regular pest control to eliminate their food sources (like crickets and roaches)
2. Ants
Fire ants, odorous house ants, and pavement ants are frequent home invaders in Arizona.
Why They’re a Problem:
- Some species sting and bite
- They contaminate food
- They’re notoriously hard to get rid of without professional help
3. Cockroaches
Cockroaches love the heat—and Phoenix offers the perfect environment. German and American cockroaches are the most common species here.
Where You’ll Find Them:
- Kitchens and bathrooms
- Sewers, drains, and under appliances
- Basements and garages
4. Spiders
Black widows and brown recluse spiders are two of the most concerning species in Phoenix.
Why You Should Care:
- Both can deliver painful, medically significant bites
- They hide in undisturbed areas like closets, garages, and sheds
5. Rodents (Mice & Rats)
Rodents sneak into homes looking for food and warmth. They’re especially active during seasonal changes.
The Risks:
- Chew through wires, insulation, and food packaging
- Leave behind droppings that can carry disease
6. Bees & Wasps
From carpenter bees to aggressive Africanized bees and wasps, flying stingers are a real issue in Phoenix neighborhoods.
Where They Nest:
- Under roof eaves
- Inside walls or attics
- In bushes or trees near your home
7. Mosquitoes
After monsoon rains, standing water becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Why They’re a Concern:
- Spread diseases like West Nile Virus
- Make outdoor activities miserable
8. Termites
Subterranean termites are the most destructive wood-eating pests in Arizona.
Warning Signs:
- Mud tubes on walls or foundations
- Hollow-sounding wood
- Swarming “flying ants” indoors
9. Crickets
Crickets may seem harmless, but they attract scorpions and spiders, making them a gateway pest.
What to Watch For:
- Constant chirping at night
- Activity near lights and damp areas
10. Earwigs & Silverfish
These small, moisture-loving insects often invade bathrooms and kitchens.
Why You Should Care:
- Damage to paper, clothing, and food packaging
- High activity in damp, dark places like sinks and cabinets
Call the Pros Before It Gets Worse
At Quell Pest Control, we know what it takes to deal with Arizona’s toughest pests—because we live here too. Whether you’re seeing scorpions, roaches, or termites, our team is ready to help you protect your home with safe, effective treatments.
