The Most Common Pest Problems in Minneapolis/St. Paul Neighborhoods

Whether you live in a historic home in St. Paul or a newer build in a Minneapolis suburb, pest problems can strike any Twin Cities household. Minnesota’s climate and mix of urban, suburban, and wooded environments create the perfect conditions for a variety of unwanted guests.

At Be There Pest Control, we’ve treated homes and businesses across the metro area for decades. Here are the most common pests we encounter—and what to watch for in your neighborhood.

1. Mice and Rodents

Rodents are a year-round issue in the Twin Cities, but they’re especially problematic in fall and winter. Mice can squeeze into holes the size of a dime, often finding entry through basements or garages.

Neighborhoods frequently affected:
Older homes in South Minneapolis, Como, Mac-Groveland, and Highland Park

Warning signs:

  • Scratching in walls or ceilings

  • Droppings in cupboards or pantries

  • Chewed food packaging or wires

2. Ants (Especially Carpenter Ants)

In spring and summer, ants are the top complaint across the metro. While most are a nuisance, carpenter ants are destructive—they tunnel through wood to nest, often in moisture-damaged areas.

Neighborhoods frequently affected:
Wooded suburbs like Maple Grove, Eagan, Shoreview, and White Bear Lake

Warning signs:

  • Trails of ants indoors

  • Sawdust-like material near baseboards

  • Rustling sounds inside walls

3. Spiders

Spiders are common in basements and garages, particularly in homes with other insect activity. Most are harmless, but their presence may indicate a food source (other bugs) nearby.

Neighborhoods frequently affected:
Throughout the metro, especially in lake homes or houses near natural areas

Warning signs:

  • Webs in corners, basements, or near windows

  • Regular spider sightings

4. Wasps and Hornets

These stinging pests build nests in soffits, eaves, decks, and trees. They’re most aggressive in late summer and early fall.

Neighborhoods frequently affected:
Suburban areas with large yards or wooded lots—Edina, Bloomington, Plymouth

Warning signs:

  • Visible nests under eaves or decks

  • Wasps gathering near entryways or outdoor furniture

5. Cockroaches

More common in multi-unit buildings or older homes, cockroaches are especially tough to eliminate once established. They’re attracted to food residue and moisture.

Neighborhoods frequently affected:
Densely populated areas of Minneapolis and St. Paul, including Uptown and Midway

Warning signs:

  • Nocturnal sightings

  • Droppings that resemble coffee grounds

  • Musty odor in infested areas

Local Knowledge = Local Results

Different Twin Cities neighborhoods experience different pest pressures—but our team knows what to look for and how to treat each case with the right tools and timing. Whether you’re battling ants in Apple Valley or mice in Minnetonka, we’ll be there.

📞 Call (612) 448-3854 today to request a consultation or initial appointment.

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