Copyright WDIV ClickOnDetroit
DETROIT – If you live in Detroit, you’re probably aware the city has a rat problem -- and the 2025 Orkin report confirms it. Detroit ranked seventh among the top U.S. cities battling rodent infestations, alongside Flint at 42nd and Grand Rapids at 25th on the list of the nation’s “rattiest” cities. This won’t surprise many Michiganders. Detroit, Flint, and Grand Rapids were also named among the worst cities for rats in both the 2024 and 2023 Orkin reports. So, why the rat problem? Experts point to a combination of factors, including aging buildings and abundant food sources in densely populated urban areas. Despite their small size, rats can cause significant problems, ranging from health hazards to property damage. Detroit city officials are actively addressing the issue. They’ve increased pest control efforts, launched public awareness campaigns, and organized neighborhood cleanups to help reduce the rat population. Residents can play a role too -- by securing trash, sealing entry points in their homes, and reporting any rat sightings to local authorities. While some progress has been made, the rat problem remains a significant challenge for Detroit and other Michigan cities.
