The Rodent Density Map of New York City: Where Do Rats Really Rule?
Ever wondered which New York City neighborhoods have the most rats? This fascinating map created by geobi-lab.com team tells the story of the city’s least favorite residents.
Using data from over 91,669 rodent-related complaints (each tagged with precise latitude and longitude coordinates) filed between 2013 and 2018, this detailed analysis reveals where New Yorkers encounter rats and mice most frequently. The breakdown is eye-opening: more than half (54%) of all reports were confirmed rat sightings, while mouse sightings accounted for 15%. The remaining complaints were split between evidence of rodent activity (9%) and conditions that attract rodents, primarily garbage (22%).
What makes this map particularly interesting is how it correlates with urban features that rats find irresistible. By analyzing the distance between rodent sightings and key city infrastructure — residential buildings, restaurants, and the subway system — clear patterns emerge.
Some surprising findings:
- Lower Manhattan and North Brooklyn show the highest concentration of rodent complaints
- Areas near subway stations consistently report more rat sightings
- Restaurant-dense neighborhoods experience up to 3 times more rodent activity
- Public housing complexes report significantly higher numbers of rodent issues
