Do Cockroaches Die Off in the Winter?

As Midwest homeowners, we know that cold weather brings a shift in our routines. We bundle up, crank the heat, and spend more time indoors. But what about roaches?

Do cockroaches die off when the temperatures drop? Or are they finding clever ways to stick around during the winter months?

Key Takeaways

• Cockroaches stay active through winter by finding warm places inside homes with moisture, food, and hiding spots.
• German cockroaches live year-round indoors and often nest in kitchens, bathrooms, baseboards, and tight crevices.
• American and oriental cockroaches enter through drains, crawl spaces, and basements when outdoor temperatures drop.
• Full winter cockroach control includes sealing cracks, removing food and water, and calling a trusted pest control company.

Can Cockroaches Survive Cold Weather in the Midwest?

Yes — and they’re surprisingly good at it. Cockroaches are cold-blooded, so their body temperature mirrors their surroundings. While freezing temperatures can slow them down, they don’t necessarily kill them.

Instead of dying off, they adapt to colder months by moving indoors in search of warmth, food, and moisture.

Why Cold Temperatures Don’t Stop Cockroaches

Most species of cockroaches don't hibernate in the true sense. They may slow down their activity in cold conditions, but full-on dormancy is rare, especially if they’ve found a warm indoor environment.

Once inside, they often remain active throughout the winter.

How German Cockroaches Thrive Indoors

German cockroaches are the most common indoor species in the Midwest. These roaches are built for indoor survival. They don’t need to battle freezing temperatures because they thrive in climate-controlled spaces like kitchens and bathrooms.

Crumbs, grease, dirty dishes, and even pet food give them everything they need to reproduce quickly. They often nest in tight crevices, behind appliances, or along baseboards where it's warm and hidden.

How American and Oriental Cockroaches Move Inside

Larger species like the American cockroach and the oriental cockroach usually live in damp outdoor environments like sewers. But when the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit during colder months, they head indoors.

They’re often found in basements, crawl spaces, garages, and around floor drains — anywhere dark and moist that offers steady shelter.

Once inside, they nest near pipes, under sinks, and behind walls, taking full advantage of the indoor heat.

What to Do When You Find Cockroaches in the Winter

If you’re spotting roaches during the colder months, there’s a good chance they’ve already made themselves at home. Here’s what to do right now to reduce activity and stop these pests from settling in:

Seal Entry Points Around Your Home

Start with an inspection around the exterior of your home. Pay close attention to cracks, door thresholds, floor drains, and utility lines. Sealing up these areas not only keeps roaches out but also reduces heat loss.

Remember, pest control always starts with prevention.

Remove Their Food Sources

Roaches aren’t picky, but they are persistent.

Keep your kitchen clean and store food in airtight, sealed containers. Wipe down baseboards and surfaces to remove grease and crumbs. Don’t forget pet bowls — spilled pet food can be a buffet for roaches.

Dry Out Moisture-Heavy Zones

Cockroaches need water to survive. Basements, crawl spaces, and garages often collect moisture that attracts them. Use dehumidifiers, fix leaks promptly, and make sure your floor drains aren’t clogged or unsealed.

Clean Out Forgotten Areas

Clutter is a roach’s best friend.

Declutter areas like under the sink, behind the washer, and inside rarely-used cabinets. These places become nesting spots where egg cases — and eventually more roaches — hide and hatch.

Know Your Cockroach Species

Different types of cockroaches behave differently.

German cockroaches hide in tight spaces and reproduce rapidly, while oriental cockroaches stay near damp, cooler areas. Brown-banded cockroaches avoid water but love high shelving and electronics.

Accurate identification helps with targeted treatment.

Bring In a Pest Control Expert

Winter roach infestations usually aren’t a quick fix. A licensed exterminator can help identify entry points, species of cockroaches, and the extent of the roach infestation. Professional pest control companies use tools and techniques that go far beyond over-the-counter sprays.

At Miller Pest & Termite, we offer pest management services designed for year-round protection, not just a one-time treatment. Our approach accounts for seasonal shifts, indoor climates, and the biology of cockroaches, including the challenges of cockroach eggs and how they resist standard treatments.

Let us help you get rid of cockroaches for good.

Get a free quote today, and let’s make sure your home isn’t a winter hideout for roaches.