Mississippi termite swarms begin, treatment costs up to $1,750

Mississippi homeowners are facing heavy termite swarms this spring, with the state university reporting large numbers of both native eastern subterranean termites and invasive Formosan subterranean termites. Mississippi State University Extension Service says eastern subterranean termites normally swarm in spring, but along the Gulf Coast activity can start as early as late January and continue into May or early June in northern parts of the state. In 2026, the university also noted particularly heavy swarms of Formosan termites in southern Mississippi, though the timing was normal for that species.

Treating an average-sized home for termites can cost between $1,200 and $1,750, depending on construction, size and method, the university estimates. Entomologists warn that finding swarmers inside a building is a strong sign of an active infestation, potentially involving tens of thousands of termite workers. Homeowners are advised to get a professional inspection if they see winged insects indoors or piles of shed wings on windowsills.