If squirrels have made themselves at home in your attic, walls, or crawl space, expect to pay between $200 and $600 for professional removal. The national average is around $400, but jobs that require emergency service, involve multiple animals, or need repair work can cost up to $1,500.
Here’s a look at common price points:
| Cost Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
| National Average | $400 |
| Typical Range | $200 – $600 |
| Low End | $150 |
| High End | $1,500 |
If trying to exterminate squirrels on your own becomes too challenging, we recommend Orkin, Terminix, and Aptive. These exterminators have some of the best-trained professionals that are able to use traps, baits, and other chemically treated solutions that are often more effective than standard DIY methods.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
What Affects the Cost of Squirrel Removal?
1. Location of the Squirrel
Where the squirrel is nesting has a major impact on cost. Hard-to-reach areas require more time, labor, and sometimes special equipment. Here’s a breakdown of average removal costs by location:
| Location | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Garage | $150 |
| Yard | $200 |
| Shed | $250 |
| Basement | $300 |
| Chimney | $450 |
| Attic | $500 |
| Roof | $550 |
| Crawl space | $600 |
| Ceiling | $750 |
2. Emergency Services
Need help at 3 a.m.? Emergency visits can add $100 or more to your bill. Most wildlife companies operate during regular business hours, so after-hours calls cost extra — and not every provider offers 24/7 response.
3. Number of Squirrels
Prices typically cover removal of one or two squirrels. If there’s a whole family in your attic, expect to pay more — especially if babies are involved or multiple traps are needed.
4. Method Used
To get rid of squirrels in your yard, most experts rely on live traps and mechanical exclusion — blocking off entry points with mesh, foam, or steel wool. Poison baits are almost never used anymore and are banned in most residential settings.
Some states (like New York) require licensed professionals with special permits to trap and relocate squirrels. In places like Illinois, wildlife pros must coordinate with state agencies before releasing animals.
5. Exclusion and Repairs
Sealing holes and reinforcing vulnerable areas helps prevent re-entry. Many pros include this in the service cost, but some don’t — so ask up-front. If repairs are needed due to gnawing or insulation damage, expect extra charges or referrals to a contractor.
Extra Costs to Consider
- Scaring devices: Motion sensors, ultrasonic repellents, or fake owls can deter squirrels but cost extra.
- Bird feeder protection: Squirrel baffles ($20 to $50) can be installed to keep them from raiding bird seed.
- Decontamination: If squirrels leave behind urine, feces, or nesting materials, some companies offer cleanup for an added fee.
Are County Services an Option?
Don’t count on it. Local animal control rarely handles nuisance squirrels, and when they do, the help is often slow and limited — you might just get handed an old trap with minimal instructions. For fast, safe removal, it’s best to hire a licensed wildlife control specialist.
Signs You Have a Squirrel Problem
- Noises: Scratching, squeaking, or thumping in attic or walls, especially early morning or dusk
- Damage: Chewed wood, wires, vent covers, or soffits
- Droppings: Small, barrel-shaped pellets
- Nests: Usually made of twigs, leaves, and insulation in attics, walls, or chimneys
- Digging: Holes in lawns or gardens where squirrels stash food
Health Risks of Squirrels
While squirrels don’t commonly transmit diseases to humans, it’s not impossible. Here are a few to be aware of:
- Leptospirosis: This is spread through contaminated urine or water. Symptoms range from fever and vomiting to kidney failure in rare cases.
- Plague: This is rare but possible through fleas or pets that interact with infected squirrels.
- Tularemia: It is contracted by handling carcasses. Symptoms include ulcers, swollen lymph nodes, and sore throat.
The bottom line? Don’t handle squirrels or nests yourself if you can avoid it.
DIY Vs. Hiring a Professional
DIY
For DIY squirrel control, traps and repellents may work short-term but can be a hassle and are restricted in many states. You’ll need the right size trap, the right bait, and a legal plan for relocation. Miss any of those, and you could create a bigger mess — or break the law.
Also, if you don’t seal up access points, the squirrels will just come back.
Professional Removal
Licensed wildlife pros:
- Know where squirrels hide
- Use humane, legal methods
- Offer exclusion and prevention
- Handle cleanup and follow-up
Top Picks:
- Orkin: Fast diagnosis and safe trapping
- Terminix: Humane trapping and exclusion
- Aptive: Eco-friendly, wildlife-respecting service
What to Expect From Professional Squirrel Removal
- Phone consultation: Call rather than booking online. This helps you explain the issue clearly and ask questions.
- Inspection: The tech will check attic, crawl spaces, and exterior for signs of activity.
- Removal plan: Includes traps or one-way doors, plus recommendations for sealing up entry points.
- Exclusion and repairs: Many companies include basic exclusion work. Repairs may be extra.
- Follow-up visit: Often part of the service, especially for attic jobs or larger infestations.
Expert Money-Saving Tips
- Check your homeowners insurance. It may cover some damage.
- Get at least three quotes. Pricing can vary widely by company and region.
- Ask about exclusions. Sealing entry points is critical but not always included.
- Look for licensing and insurance. Only work with qualified professionals.
Get Your Free Quote In Seconds
Because pest control products can be dangerous to your family if mishandled, we always recommend consulting with an exterminator even if just to ask for advice on how to apply pest control products yourself.
Our pest experts review each company for quality, cost, customer service, safety, and hundreds of other important factors and assess a rating out of 100. Below are our top four picks based on that review for pest removal. We’ve set up a direct line with each company so you can get fast free quotes now.
This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
