How profitable is a pest control business? A successful pest control business can earn a profit margin of 35% when you subtract labor and operational expenses.
Let’s see what the data says to learn more about how profitable a pest control business can be.
Pest Control Business Profits
According to the most recent data, the pest control business is valued at 24 billion dollars.
Meanwhile, the average non-startup pest control business earns 401,900 in annual revenue.
Since the median estimated startup cost for a pest control business is $47,500, a successful pest control business could earn a profit of $354,000.
Pest Control Business Owner Salary
The median estimated salary for a pest control business owner is $60,000, though it can vary significantly depending on number of employees, region, tenure, expenses, and overhead.
According to BusinessHue, the average salary for a pest control business owner with five employees is $120,000, double the median salary of owners throughout the industry.
Startup Costs for a Pest Control Business
A significant investment is required to start a pest control business, with a median cost of $47,500.
Startup costs cover:
- licensing
- equipment
- marketing
- transportation
Pre-planning and expert management can limit costs and form a smoother path to profitability.
Licensing
Your licensing costs vary by region and requirements. In general, you will need the following:
- Business License: $100 – $500
- Pest Control Operator License: $200 – $600
- Certification: $500 – $1,500
- Total (Estimate): $800 -$2,600
Equipment
Essential pest control equipment includes industry-specific tools and safety gear.
- Applicators and Sprayers: $500 – $1,000
- Protective Gear: $200 – $500
- Bait Stations: $1,000 – $2,000
- Tools: $200 – $500
- Total (Estimate) – $2,200 – $4,700
Marketing
We will dive deeper into the proper marketing channels later. But for now, consider these costs:
- Custom Website: $1,000 – $3,000
- PPC: $500 – $2,000
- Local SEO: $1,000 – $3,000
- Local Sponsorships: $300 – $1,000
- Total (Estimate) $4,300 – $9,000
Transportation:
You can’t reach customers or transport equipment without a company vehicle. Check out the associated costs:
- Used Truck/Van: $10,000 – $20,000
- Truck Wrap: $500 – $1,000
- Fuel and Maintenance: $300 – $500
- Total (Estimate): $10,800 – $21,500
Total Startup Costs (Estimate)
Here are the totals when calculating the estimates from each category:
- Licensing: $800 – $2,600
- Equipment: $2,200 – $4,700
- Marketing: $4,300 – $9,000
- Transportation: $10,800 – $21,500
- Total (Estimate): $18,100 – $37,800
The range of the total estimate is lower than the estimated median startup cost in the pest control industry.
This discrepancy is likely caused by additional startup expenses that vary by region and discipline.
Ultimately, this list merely gives you a general outline of where your startup costs will go.
Increasing Profit Margin With Pest Control Marketing
While variables such as region and capital impact portability for a pest control business, the most controllable factor is marketing.
Investing in the proper marketing channels can increase your profit margin and achieve profitability more quickly.
Here are the channels you should focus on:
- Digital Marketing: SEO, PPC, and SMM generate pest control leads
- Local SEO: Getting listed on local directories, especially Google Business Profile, is essential
- Community Marketing: Networking at community events, sponsoring Little League teams, or partnering with other local businesses are the fastest ways to earn credibility,
- Customer Retention: Providing elite customer service to retain your existing customer base with standard follow-ups and maintenance packages
- Referral Programs: Maximizing lifetime customer value by turning existing clients into new ones with referral incentives that increase brand participation.
Efficiently investing in these marketing channels is a great way to earn profitability in your pest control business.
Bonus: Learn more about Facebook Marketing for Pest Control Companies
Final Thoughts
There is no one-size-fits-all projection for pest control business profitability.
However, there is a clear path to profitability when making the right business choices.
A high profit margin in a booming industry is a good recipe for success.
Managing expenses while investing in the proper marketing channels is the most efficient way to earn profitability for your pest control business.