spider control in Memphis, TN

If you've spotted a spider in your Memphis home, you're not alone. The city's humid subtropical climate, with about 54 inches of rain a year, keeps insect prey active for much of the year, and spiders follow. While most are harmless, a few in this area, like the brown recluse and southern black widow, need a closer look. Here's how to tell them apart and decide when to call a professional.

Memphis, Tennessee cityscape
Memphis at a glance
54 in.rain a year
70%average humidity
32°Ftypical winter low
91°Ftypical summer high
The short version

For Memphis homes, TN, the spiders that matter are brown recluses and southern black widows, plus the harmless joro spider in fall. Most local spiders are nuisance species, but a few need professional attention. A local spider control company can identify and treat the problem.

  • Porch lighting drives insect numbers, which drive spider numbers around Memphis houses.
  • Around a Memphis home, dust in wall voids lasts far longer than spray on open surfaces.
  • Typical published ranges for a one-time spider service in Memphis run $150 to $350.
  • Brown recluses live in a limited range, so confirm you actually have one before paying for recluse treatment in Memphis.
  • Living rooms are nearly as spider-prone as basements: Bertone and colleagues found spiders in 96.9% of 97 common areas across 50 North Carolina homes in 2012.

For Memphis homeowners and renters who have seen spiders indoors and want to know if they're dangerous, how they got in, and what to do. It suits anyone who would rather get ahead of the problem than react to it later. If you need a quick answer, start with the summary above; for the full picture, read on.

What to look for

Memphis sits in the native range of the brown recluse, a spider that can cause serious bites. The city's older housing stock, with plenty of gaps and crawlspaces, gives these spiders hiding spots. The humid climate, with 70% average humidity, supports the insects that spiders eat, so spider populations can grow. Southern black widows are also present, especially in undisturbed areas like garages and sheds. In fall, joro spiders, which are large but harmless, appear in webs around homes. Knowing which spider you have is the first step because treatment differs between a harmless nuisance and a medically important species.

  • You see spiders regularly, especially in corners, basements, or garages.
  • You find webs in undisturbed areas like attics, crawlspaces, or behind furniture.
  • You notice egg sacs, which are small, round, and silky, attached to webs or surfaces.
  • You see live spiders during the day, which is unusual for recluses.
  • You have unexplained bites, though most are not from spiders.
  • You find spiders in boxes, firewood, or clothing that has been stored.
  • You see large, golden webs with spiders in late summer, likely joro spiders.

Why it’s worth acting soon

  • A brown recluse bite can cause tissue damage that takes months to heal.
  • A black widow bite can cause muscle pain and cramping that may need medical care.
  • Spider populations can grow quickly, especially indoors where they have food and shelter.
  • Webs and droppings can stain walls and fabrics.
  • Some people have severe allergic reactions to spider bites, though rare.
75.6%NC bedrooms with spiders (Bertone et al., 160 bedrooms, 2012)Bertone et al.: arthropods inside Raleigh-area homes
$200–$500Spider spray treatment cost (Fixr, Jan 2025)Fixr spider extermination costs
YesBrown recluse native range includes MemphisUC Riverside
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How big is your spider problem?

Treatment options and typical costs

Inspection and Species Identification

$75–$200

Most spiders found in Memphis homes are harmless house spiders, cellar spiders or orb weavers. A careful look in Memphis separates those from a black widow or, where they occur, a brown recluse.

Time
45–90 minutes
Best for
Every job; the species decides how much to do

Sealing Gaps, Lighting and Prey Reduction

$150–$450

Bright white porch lights pull in moths and midges, and spiders follow. Many Memphis homeowners see a real drop after switching to warm or yellow bulbs and moving fixtures away from doors.

Time
1–4 hours
Best for
Long-term reduction; homes near woods, water or fields

Web and Egg-Sac Removal

$100–$250

Many Memphis companies schedule web removal as part of a recurring exterior service. Ask whether it is included or priced separately.

Time
30–90 minutes
Best for
Visible webbing on eaves, porches, sheds and basements

Exterior Perimeter Treatment and Void Dusting

$150–$350

Once webs are down, a technician in Memphis applies a residual product along the foundation, around door and window frames, and under eaves. Spiders crossing those bands pick up the product.

Time
45–120 minutes
Best for
Heavy exterior activity, widows or recluses confirmed

Prices are typical published ranges. Ask what’s included before you compare quotes.

Hand shining a flashlight along the gap between a mattress and a bed frame
Where brown recluses live, they like quiet spots under beds and furniture, so a flashlight check along the frame is worth a minute.

Spiders You'll Meet in Memphis.

According to UGA Extension, joro spider sightings peak in September and October. Knowing which spider you're dealing with is important because treatment and risk differ. Most other spiders you'll find indoors are nuisance species that don't pose a threat. If you see a spider and aren't sure what it is, try to capture it or take a photo. A professional can identify it and tell you whether you need treatment. Misidentification is common, and many people mistake harmless spiders for dangerous ones. Memphis has the brown recluse, southern black widow, and the newer joro spider. The brown recluse is the one that causes the most concern because its bite can be serious. It prefers dark, undisturbed places like attics, closets, and cardboard boxes. The southern black widow is also present, typically found in garages, sheds, and woodpiles. Its bite is rarely fatal but can be painful. The joro spider, which arrived in the Southeast recently, is large and colorful but harmless.

Local spiders conditions in Memphis.

An inspection in Memphis usually starts outside and works inward, checking the foundation, gaps around doors and windows, and any moisture or clutter near the structure first. Knowing Memphis's seasonal timing lets you schedule treatment before the busy stretch rather than after it, which usually means faster service and a more accurate quote. A provider who works Memphis and Tennessee every day can point out the specific conditions that matter most here, and getting the scope, price, and follow-up terms in writing makes it easier to compare options. Memphis sits in a humid subtropical climate, and that sets the pace for spider activity here: late summer through fall (August-October). For Memphis homes, the area is mostly urban, so spiders pressure can differ from one block to the next depending on how tight the entry points are and how much food, water, or shelter is close by.

Fallen leaves piled against a foundation at the base of a downspout
Leaf piles against the foundation are prime fall shelter for spiders looking for a way inside.

A Year in the Life of Memphis Spiders.

They spin large webs and reach maturity in September and October, according to UGA Extension. Even as temperatures cool, spiders may seek shelter indoors. Winter is quieter, but indoor spider problems can continue, especially in basements and crawlspaces. Understanding this cycle helps you know when to expect spider encounters and when to be extra vigilant. If you see an increase in spiders during a particular season, that's normal. But if you're seeing them daily, it may indicate an infestation that needs professional attention. For Memphis homes, spider activity follows the seasons. From spring through fall, the warm, humid weather supports a steady supply of insects, which means spiders are active outdoors and often wander indoors. The summer months, especially July and August, are when southern black widow activity peaks, according to Penn State Extension. Brown recluses are also active outdoors during this time, but they can live indoors year-round because our homes are climate-controlled. As fall arrives, joro spiders become more noticeable.

What Happens During a Professional Spider Treatment?

This may include targeted applications of insecticide in cracks, crevices, and voids where spiders hide, as well as web removal and sealing gaps. The technician will also advise you on steps you can take to prevent future problems, such as reducing clutter and trimming vegetation. Follow-up visits may be needed, especially for brown recluse infestations, which can be persistent. Professionals follow integrated pest management principles, which focus on long-term prevention rather than just spraying. According to the EPA, this approach is more effective and environmentally responsible. When you call a professional for spider control in Memphis, the first step is a thorough inspection. The technician will look for signs of spider activity, identify the species, and locate entry points and hiding spots areas. This may include checking attics, crawlspaces, garages, and the exterior of your home. They will also look for conditions that attract spiders, like excess moisture or insect problems. The findings then get walked back to you, room by room, before any plan is proposed.

Why Memphis Homes Are Prone to Spiders.

Older homes often have unfinished basements, crawlspaces, and attics that provide undisturbed hiding spots. The city's tree cover and vegetation offer spiders plenty of outdoor habitat close to homes. The presence of brown recluses is more likely in homes with clutter and storage, as they prefer dark, quiet areas. Understanding these local factors can help you target your prevention efforts. If you live in an older home, pay special attention to sealing gaps around pipes and utility lines, and consider having a professional inspect your crawlspace and attic for spider activity. Memphis's climate and housing stock create ideal conditions for spiders. The city's humid subtropical climate, with high humidity and frequent rain, supports a wide variety of insects, which are the primary food source for spiders. The average summer high of 91F and winter lows around 32F mean that spiders can be active for much of the year. Many Memphis homes are older, with more gaps and cracks that spiders can use to enter.

How to Compare spider control Quotes in Memphis.

A good company will include sealing gaps and sanitation recommendations. check that they are licensed and insured. A quote won't tell you much about reputation, so ask for references or read reviews. Remember that the cheapest quote may not be the best value if it doesn't address the root of the problem. A thorough inspection is the basis of an accurate quote. If a company gives you a price without inspecting your home, be cautious. A proper inspection allows them to identify the extent of the problem and tailor the treatment. When comparing quotes from spider control companies in Memphis, focus on what's included, not just the price. Ask about the type of treatment they plan to use. Targeted crack and crevice applications are more effective for spiders than broadcast spraying. Find out how many visits are included and whether they offer a warranty. Since brown recluse infestations may require multiple treatments, a single-visit service may not be enough. Also, ask about their approach to prevention.

When Is a Spider an Emergency in Memphis?

Also, if you have a severe allergic reaction to any insect bite, you should be cautious. In these cases, call a professional promptly. They can assess the situation and recommend treatment. For most other situations, you can take preventive measures and monitor the activity. Remember that most spider bites are misidentified. According to UC Riverside, more than 95% of purported brown recluse bites occur where the spiders don't live. So don't panic unless you have confirmed the species and are experiencing symptoms. Most spider sightings in Memphis are not emergencies. A single spider, even a brown recluse or black widow, does not require immediate professional intervention. However, you should seek medical attention if you are bitten and experience severe symptoms. Black widow bites can cause intense pain, muscle cramps, and nausea, according to the CDC. Brown recluse bites may develop into a blister that turns dark, but this is rare. For the spider itself, an emergency would be if you have a large, established infestation of a dangerous species, especially in a home with children or pets.

What affects the price

  • The size of your home and the extent of the infestation.
  • The species involved; treating brown recluses may require more visits and effort.
  • The number of entry points and hiding spots areas that need sealing.
  • The type of treatment used, such as targeted applications versus whole-home spraying.
  • How many return trips a recluse job needs before catch counts start falling.
  • The accessibility of areas like attics and crawlspaces.
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What's your biggest concern about spiders?

When to call for help

Call a professional if you suspect a brown recluse or black widow infestation, as these species require specific treatment and safety precautions. Also, if you've tried DIY methods without success, or if you're seeing spiders daily despite your efforts, it's time to get an expert assessment. A professional can identify the species, find the source, and recommend a targeted plan. In Memphis's climate, with year-round indoor activity possible, early intervention prevents the problem from growing.

What you can do yourself

If you're unsure what you're dealing with, a pro can give you confidence without guesswork. A professional has the training and products to treat voids and cracks effectively and safely. These spiders require careful identification and targeted treatment that most homeowners aren't equipped to do. However, for brown recluses or black widows, DIY is not recommended. Sticky traps can help you monitor activity. You can remove webs, seal cracks, and reduce clutter yourself. DIY spider control works for occasional nuisance spiders.

Spiders in Memphis

Memphis's humid subtropical climate means spiders are active for much of the year. The city gets about 54 inches of rain annually, which supports lush vegetation and, in turn, the insects that spiders eat. The average summer high of 91F and winter low of 32F mean that outdoor activity slows in winter, but indoors, climate-controlled homes allow species like the brown recluse to stay active year-round. Memphis's housing stock, with many older homes, offers spiders plenty of entry points and undisturbed areas. The presence of joro spiders in the area is recent, but they peak in September and October.

Local research

Spiders in Memphis, TN: what the public record shows

Before you compare quotes, it helps to know which spiders actually live in Tennessee, when they are busiest around Memphis, and what the state figures look like. Everything below links to the agency or university page it came from.

Spider species recorded in Tennessee

  • Brown recluse (Loxosceles reclusa) — Native range 'Nebraska south to Texas and eastward to southernmost Ohio and north-central Georgia' (UC Riverside). 'Found throughout the south central and Midwestern United Stat…
  • Southern black widow (Latrodectus mactans) — 'Found in the southeastern region and has been found as far north as Ohio and as far west as Texas' (UF/IFAS); confirmed in Pennsylvania (Penn State) and one of two dangerous sp…
  • Joro spider (Trichonephila clavata) — 'Established in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, and spreading to adjacent regions. There are also isolated populations found in Maryland, Virginia,…

When spiders are busiest around Memphis

Brown recluse active spring–fall outdoors, year-round indoors; joro peaks Sept–Oct.

Inside the brown recluse native range (UC Riverside) and joro established range (UGA).

For context, nationally

  • Throughout North America, but are most common in the southern and western United States — Black widow distribution. CDC/NIOSH
  • In the midwestern and southern United States — Brown recluse distribution. CDC/NIOSH

Sources: CDC/NIOSH; Myth of the Brown Recluse: Fact, Fear, and Loathing; EENY 560: Southern Black Widow, Latrodectus mactans; Joro Spider: Trichonephila clavata (Circular 1273). Figures are quoted as the source prints them. How we check our sources

Simple ways to keep spiders away

  • Seal gaps around doors, windows, and utility lines with caulk or weatherstripping.
  • Install screens on vents and chimneys.
  • Remove webs and egg sacs regularly with a vacuum or broom.
  • Reduce clutter in basements, attics, and garages to eliminate hiding spots.
  • Store boxes off the floor and away from walls, and tape them shut.
  • Turn off outdoor lights or use yellow bulbs that attract fewer insects.
  • Keep grass and shrubs trimmed away from the foundation.
  • Shake out shoes and clothing that have been stored before wearing.
Open cabinet under a kitchen sink with a flashlight and clipboard on the shelf
Under-sink cabinets get checked for gaps around pipes, which spiders and their prey both use.

Did you know?

Orb weavers often eat and rebuild their web nightly

Weight for weight, spider silk is stronger than steel.

Questions people ask

Are brown recluse spiders common in Memphis, TN?

Yes, Memphis is within the native range of the brown recluse. According to UC Riverside, this range extends from Nebraska to Texas and eastward to southern Ohio and Georgia. While not every home has them, they can be found in undisturbed areas like attics, closets, and crawlspaces, especially in older homes.

What does a brown recluse spider look like?

A brown recluse has six equal-sized eyes arranged in three pairs, unlike most spiders with eight eyes. It also has a violin-shaped marking on its back, but this can be faint. The safest identification is by the eyes, as many other brown spiders have similar markings.

When is spider season in Memphis?

Spider activity in Memphis peaks from spring through fall. According to Penn State Extension, black widow bites are most common in summer. Joro spiders are most visible in September and October, according to UGA Extension. Indoors, spiders can be active year-round because of climate control.

Are joro spiders dangerous?

No, joro spiders are not dangerous to humans. According to Clemson University, they are large and colorful but harmless to people and pets. They are an invasive species in the Southeast, but they do not pose a medical threat.

How do I know if I have a black widow in Memphis?

Southern black widows are present in Memphis. They are glossy black with a red hourglass marking on the underside. According to Penn State Extension, they prefer undisturbed areas like woodpiles, garages, and crawlspaces. If you see one, avoid contact and call a professional for removal.

What should I do if I find a brown recluse in my Memphis home?

If you find a brown recluse, do not try to handle it. Capture it safely or take a clear photo for identification. Then contact a pest control professional who can inspect and treat your home. Because recluses hide in voids and undisturbed areas, professional treatment is more effective than DIY.

Can spiders in Memphis cause health problems?

Most spiders in Memphis are harmless. The two species of medical concern are the brown recluse and the southern black widow. Their bites can cause symptoms ranging from mild irritation to serious tissue damage or systemic effects. According to the CDC, these spiders are found in the South, so awareness is important.

How can I prevent spiders from entering my Memphis home?

Close the gaps first: door sweeps, sealed utility penetrations, repaired screens, and warm colored exterior bulbs that pull in fewer insects. Indoors, cut clutter, swap cardboard for sealed bins, and vacuum corners and egg sacs regularly. The EPA describes integrated pest management, which pairs sealing gaps and sanitation with targeted treatment, as the more effective way to handle a pest like this.

Nearby cities

Related guides

Sources (17)

The facts in this article come from the public sources listed above. Every home is different, so ask the company you talk to about pricing and what’s included. Published by Spider Exterminator · Updated September 11, 2026 · How we write these guides

For Memphis homes, tell us what you've noticed and ask about an inspection or a quote.

Not sure if you need help? Tell us what you saw and where, and ask about getting it identified.

  • Where you’ve seen spiders or damage
  • When you first noticed it
  • Anything you’ve already tried