If you live in Maryvale, Phoenix, then you already know this is one of the city’s most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods. From Alhambra to Estrella, the area is full of hardworking families, local businesses, and that unmistakable Arizona charm.
But there’s one thing just about every Maryvale resident has experienced, pests.
From cockroaches skittering across the garage floor to ants invading your kitchen, pest issues are a constant battle here. And lately, things are changing. We’re seeing new pest patterns, shifting seasons, and even some surprise infestations in areas that never had issues before.
So if you’re wondering what’s going on or how to protect your home, you’re in the right place. Let’s talk about the latest pest trends in Maryvale, why they’re happening, and what you can do to keep your house, apartment, or business pest-free.
Why Maryvale is a Pest Hotspot
Let’s be real. It’s not that Maryvale is dirtier or more pest-prone than other parts of Phoenix. It’s just that we’ve got a perfect storm of factors that attract bugs and rodents.
- High population density means more food sources and hiding places.
- Many homes were built in the mid-to-late 1900s and have aging infrastructure, think cracks, crevices, and older sewer systems.
- Irrigation and lush landscaping (especially in older neighborhoods near Maryvale Parkway and Indian School Road) create cool, moist environments in an otherwise dry desert.
- Warm temperatures year-round let pests thrive, especially roaches, scorpions, and ants.
And let’s not forget climate change is real, and it’s shifting pest behavior. Winters are warmer, which means pests don’t go dormant. They’re sticking around longer, breeding faster, and spreading further.
“We Had No Problems Until Last Summer”
“We live near 67th Avenue and Osborn and never had a roach issue until last summer. Suddenly, they were coming up from the drains and under the fridge. We tried sprays from Home Depot, but they didn’t last. Eventually, we called Spark Pest Control, and they explained how rising temps and rain patterns were causing more cockroach activity than usual. One treatment helped, but we now do quarterly service, just to stay ahead of it.”
— Maria L., Maryvale homeowner
2025 Pest Trends in Maryvale You Need to Know
Let’s break down what’s happening this year. These are the top pest issues Maryvale residents and local pest control companies are reporting right now.
1. Cockroach Activity is Exploding
Yep, it’s not your imagination. Roaches, especially German cockroaches and American cockroaches (the big flying ones) are popping up all over.
Why?
- Aging sewer systems let them crawl up through drains.
- The monsoon season creates damp, humid areas they love.
- Warmer winters mean more breeding cycles.
What to do:
- Use drain covers at night.
- Keep floors and counters spotless.
- Call a pro for gel bait treatments and perimeter sprays.
2. Roof Rats in Citrus Trees and Attics
Rats in Maryvale? Yep, especially roof rats, and they love neighborhoods with citrus trees or untrimmed palm trees.
Common signs:
- Droppings in your garage or shed
- Chewed fruit on trees
- Scratching noises in the attic at night
Hot zones: Homes near Glendale Avenue, 59th Ave, and anywhere with dense foliage or alleys behind houses.
3. Scorpion Sightings on the Rise
Bark scorpions are moving in, and they’re not just a Scottsdale problem anymore. In fact, several Maryvale pest control companies reported a 40% increase in scorpion call-outs last year alone.
They usually sneak in:
- Through baseboard gaps
- Under doors
- Around garages and patio furniture
Pro tip: Use a blacklight to check your home at night. Scorpions glow under UV light.
4. Ant Infestations Peaking in Spring and Summer
Ants are always a thing in Arizona, but this year we’re seeing more crazy ants and Argentine ants. They’re aggressive and build colonies inside walls.
Watch for:
- Trails along baseboards
- Ants in the bathroom or kitchen
- Nesting near foundation cracks
They’re hard to eliminate without targeting the queen, so skip the DIY sprays and go for professional bait systems.
5. Bed Bugs in Multi-Family Housing
Unfortunately, bed bugs are making a comeback in apartments near Thomas Rd and 51st Ave. People traveling or moving from unit to unit can unknowingly bring them in.
Signs of bed bugs:
- Tiny reddish-brown bugs in bed seams
- Itchy bites in a straight line
- Blood spots on sheets
If you rent, notify your landlord immediately. Arizona law requires them to address the issue.
6. Termites Are Spreading Faster Than Ever
Subterranean termites are active in the Maryvale area, especially in homes built before the 1980s. That’s most of Maryvale.
Look for:
- Mud tubes along exterior walls
- Discarded wings near windows
- Soft or hollow-sounding wood
Treating termites early saves thousands in repairs. Get a yearly inspection even if you don’t see anything.
What Maryvale Residents Are Doing About It
We asked locals what they’re doing to handle pests. Here’s what they shared:
“We switched to monthly pest service after we found a nest of ants under the patio. It’s worth the cost to not have to think about it anymore.”
— Jason T., near Camelback and 75th Ave
“I use peppermint oil and keep everything clean, but I still had scorpions. A pest guy sealed all my baseboards, and I haven’t seen one since.”
— Erica M., near Maryvale High School
“If your home backs up to an alley, get a rat box from your pest company. It’s a game-changer.”
— Luis F., Westwood neighborhood
Tired of Dealing With Pests in Maryvale?
Maryvale is a great place to live, raise a family, or run a business, but like all great neighborhoods, it comes with its own challenges. Pests are one of them. The good news is, you’re not stuck with them.
Stay informed. Take action early. Partner with pest control pros who know the area.
And hey, if the ants start marching across your counter again tomorrow, at least now you know exactly what to do.
Whether you’re in a rental, a family home, or a small business, pests don’t care. But you should. Don’t wait until it’s an infestation. Call a Spark Pest Control expert today for a free inspection and start protecting your home the smart way.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are cockroaches such a big issue in Maryvale right now?
Changes in climate and older infrastructure have made it easier for roaches to survive and breed in higher numbers.
2. What can I do to prevent roof rats?
Trim back trees, seal entry points in your attic, and remove fallen fruit. You can also install rodent boxes around your property.
3. Are scorpions common in Maryvale or just in the desert areas?
They’re becoming more common, especially in areas with landscaping rocks and block walls. Yes, even in dense neighborhoods.
4. Is it safe to use pest control around pets and kids?
Yes, as long as you choose a licensed provider and ask for low toxicity or organic treatment options.
5. Can I handle ants on my own?
DIY sprays may kill visible ants but won’t eliminate the colony. Professionals use bait systems that target the queen.
6. Do landlords have to provide pest control in Maryvale rentals?
Yes, for major infestations like bed bugs, landlords are responsible. Tenants should still practice good hygiene to prevent issues.
7. How often should I get pest control in Maryvale?
Monthly or bi-monthly service is ideal, especially during the hot months from April to October.
8. What’s the best way to detect termites early?
Look for mud tubes, hollow wood, and small wings around windows. Schedule annual inspections with a certified termite pro.
9. How do I prevent pests from coming in through drains?
Use drain covers, run water regularly, and clean sink traps. Some pests come up from sewer lines.
10. Are eco-friendly treatments effective in Maryvale?
Yes. Companies like Green Home Pest Control offer solutions that are safe and effective for Maryvale homes.
