Cockroaches in Georgia
Overview of Cockroaches in Georgia
Cockroaches in Georgia are a year-round problem, thriving in the state’s warm, humid conditions. These pests often enter homes in search of food, water, and shelter, especially after heavy rains or during extreme heat.
More than just unpleasant, cockroaches are known to spread harmful bacteria and trigger allergies. Professional pest control is often necessary to eliminate infestations and stop them from returning.
Learn more about pest threats in your area by visiting our Pest Library.
Common Cockroaches in Georgia
The most frequently encountered roach species in Georgia are:
American Cockroach:
- Also known as “Palmetto Bug”
- 1.5 to 2 inches long
- Reddish-brown with a yellow figure-eight pattern on the back of the head
- Known for flying and fast movement
Smokybrown Cockroach:
- 1 to 1.5 inches long
- Uniform dark brown or mahogany in color
- Attracted to lights and thrives in humid, outdoor environments
- Easily moves indoors through open doors and vents
Signs of an Infestation:
- Live roaches spotted at night
- Shed skins and egg casings (oothecae)
- Musty, foul odors
- Roach droppings resembling black pepper
Cockroach infestations often coincide with conditions that also attract rodents in Georgia, such as excess moisture, clutter, and food sources left out overnight.


Where You’ll Find Them
Cockroaches prefer dark, warm, and moist environments near food and water sources. In Georgia homes, common hiding spots include:
- Kitchens (under sinks, behind stoves and refrigerators)
- Bathrooms (under cabinets, near drains)
- Basements and crawlspaces
- Laundry rooms and utility closets
- Outdoor sheds, mulch beds, and woodpiles
Roaches are nocturnal, so infestations may go unnoticed until they become severe.
Life Cycle of Cockroaches
Cockroaches have a three-stage life cycle: egg, nymph, and adult.
- Egg Stage: Egg cases (oothecae) contain 16–50 eggs depending on species
- Nymph Stage: Juveniles molt several times before becoming adults
- Adult Stage: Adults live several months and continue to reproduce rapidly
Georgia’s climate allows cockroaches to reproduce continuously, leading to explosive infestations if untreated.

Cockroach Prevention Tips for Georgia Homes
To reduce the risk of cockroach infestations:
- Seal cracks around doors, windows, and utility lines
- Fix plumbing leaks and reduce moisture sources
- Store food in sealed containers
- Clean kitchen counters and floors regularly
- Empty trash cans frequently and use sealed lids
- Trim vegetation and remove outdoor debris near the foundation
DIY methods may help temporarily, but professional treatment is needed to eliminate infestations at the source.

Frequently Asked Questions
Are cockroaches dangerous to humans?
Yes. They spread bacteria and can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms.
What attracts cockroaches into homes?
Food crumbs, spills, moisture, and warmth are key attractants.
How do I know if I have a cockroach infestation?
Look for live roaches, shed skins, droppings, egg cases, and foul odors.
Can cockroach infestations be eliminated permanently?
Yes, with professional treatments and good sanitation practices, infestations can be fully controlled and prevented.
Professional Cockroach Control in Georgia
Arete Pest Control provides expert cockroach control in Georgia, targeting infestations at every level. Our proven strategies stop roaches at the source and prevent future problems.
Our services include:
- Thorough home inspections to locate harborages
- Customized treatment plans based on species and severity
- Targeted baiting and insecticide applications
- Ongoing maintenance and prevention programs
Contact Arete Pest Control today for fast, reliable cockroach extermination and restore comfort and cleanliness to your Georgia home.
