MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small RNAs encoded by endogenous genes in eukaryotes that are involved in many diverse biological processes, including metamorphosis, reproduction and cell differentiation, which also play an important role at the transcriptional level. A large number of miRNAs which regulate metamorphosis and reproduction have been widely reported in holometabolous insects, however, research on how miRNA regulate development in hemimetabolous insects is still in the early stage and the specific regulatory mechanisms need further clarification. Here, we review recent progress in research on miRNAs in three groups of hemimetabolous insects; migratory locusts, (Orthoptera), brown planthoppers (Hemiptera) and cockroaches (Blattaria), in order to improve understanding of the mechanisms regulating metamorphosis and reproduction in these taxa, and provide a scientific basis for improved ecological pest management and the comprehensive prevention and control of hemimetabolous insect pests.