Pest Control Workers Salary & Career Guide 2025: $45,250 Median Pay, +5% Growth
Pest control workers earned a national median salary of $45,250 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $22 per hour, with the typical range spanning from $34,680 (10th percentile) to $61,890 (90th percentile). This guide breaks down what you can earn by state, how to get started in the field, and where the job market is headed through 2034.
How much Pest Control Workers earn
The median wage for pest control workers is $45,250 per year. Half of workers earn between roughly $34,680 and $61,890. The mean annual wage is $46,400, or about $22.30 an hour. Pay varies by experience, employer type, and location.
- 10th percentile: $34,680
- 25th percentile: around $38,000 (estimated from BLS range)
- Median: $45,250
- 75th percentile: around $53,000 (estimated)
- 90th percentile: $61,890
Pay by state
Washington tops the list with an average salary of $51,300, followed by South Dakota ($49,920), Nevada ($49,240), Connecticut ($49,010), and New Jersey ($48,780). At the other end, West Virginia ($37,510), Mississippi ($37,200), and New Mexico ($37,070) have the lowest average wages for pest control workers. Even in lower-paying states, the pay often exceeds the local minimum wage by a wide margin.
How to become a Pest Control Worker
Most pest control workers start with a high school diploma or equivalent. No college degree is required, but you must complete on-the-job training or an apprenticeship, and pass a state licensing exam. Requirements vary by state, but typically include a background check, proof of insurance, and a certain number of training hours. Some workers earn certifications through the National Pest Management Association or state pest control associations, which can boost job prospects.
- Step 1: Get a high school diploma or GED.
- Step 2: Receive on-the-job training from an employer (often paid).
- Step 3: Study for and pass your state's pesticide applicator license exam.
- Step 4: Maintain your license with continuing education credits (usually every year or two).
- Step 5: Gain experience and consider earning a commercial applicator license for higher pay.
Job outlook
Employment of pest control workers is projected to grow 4.9% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 13,400 job openings each year, mostly due to the need to replace workers who retire or leave the field. The demand for pest control services is steady, driven by population growth, urban development, and the ongoing need to manage pests like termites, rodents, and bed bugs.
Frequently asked questions
Do pest control workers get paid well?
The median salary is $45,250, which is above the median for all occupations in the U.S. ($48,060). Top earners make over $61,890, and pay varies significantly by state and experience.
What is the highest paying state for pest control workers?
Washington is the highest paying state, with an average salary of $51,300. South Dakota, Nevada, Connecticut, and New Jersey also rank high.
How long does it take to become a pest control worker?
Most people can start working and earning after a few weeks of on-the-job training. Obtaining a state license usually takes a couple of months of training plus passing an exam. Some states require a year of supervised work before full licensing.
Is pest control a growing career?
Yes, the field is projected to grow 4.9% over the 2024-2034 decade, faster than average. About 13,400 openings per year are expected.
What education do you need for pest control?
A high school diploma or equivalent is usually the only formal education required. On-the-job training and state licensing are the main steps.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Pest Control Workers data.