Wood roach vs cockroach are similar in appearance, both belonging to the order Blattodea. However, they differ in behavior and habitat. Wood roaches, as the name suggests, prefer outdoor environments like wooded areas and decaying logs, rarely infesting homes. They are smaller and have a lighter coloration. In contrast, cockroaches are notorious household pests, thriving in indoor spaces with a preference for dark, damp areas. They are larger and darker in color. While wood roaches pose little threat to humans, cockroaches are known carriers of diseases, making their presence a health concern indoors.