Industry Outlook

Pest Control is in the Midst of a Period of Incredible Growth

Did you know professional pest control is one of the most durable and resilient industries to work for? It’s true. Workers are often in high demand and the market sector is largely recession-proof. Pests will always persist and be problematic and there will always be an incredible need to protect against them. In fact, according to the United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of pest control workers is projected to grow 9 percent from 2019 to 2029. That is faster than the average for all other trade and skilled work occupations, which is currently estimated at 4 percent. This is in part due to the organic growth of the industry, as well as the fact that an entire generation of current workers is preparing to retire. There is ample opportunity and great demand for a new generation to fill the need and join the workforce.

Pest Control Industry Trends & Analysis

The pest control services market is also expected to exceed $22 billion by 2026, according to MarketWatch. Pest control industry statistics show that in 2020, the U.S. professional pest control market is expected to become a $10 billion industry, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7 percent over the next five years, according to research from Specialty Consultants, LLC. Notable revenue generators include expanding mosquito control services, spiders and ants, and spiked incidents of bed bug infestations.

In order to meet these high demand growth needs, new jobs will continue to open up and there will be an ongoing pipeline of opportunities for candidates entering the field. There’s never been a better time to join the pest control workforce!

In a workforce survey conducted by NPMA, 81 percent of respondents reported being satisfied with their job security. Pest control is an ever-evolving industry with ever-evolving pest issues.

Whether it’s conducting annual termite inspections for new homeowners, developing integrated pest management plans for multi-million dollar commercial facilities, or protecting against vectors of disease, the outlook for the pest control industry looks very good! Pests are always going to be around and posing a true health risk, making this industry a key factor in maintaining public health.