Orkin’s Bed Bug Cities List ranks U.S. Cities based on reported infestations of bed bugs in homes and businesses. Discover which city made the top of this year’s list and learn how to reduce your risk.
In 2023 there was a bed bug outbreak in Paris so intense that it sent travelers into a panic—there was a collective sigh of relief when the situation faded from headlines. Bed bugs are still a concern for travelers, regardless of whether they think about them or not.
Orkin Pest Control recently released their annual round-up. Orkin’s Top 50 Bed Bugs Cities ListIt ranks 50 American Cities based on the number of bed bug infestations treated by it in the past year, both at home and at commercial locations. And while some of the data is based on home treatments, the company also sourced its numbers on commercial treatments—primarily at hotels. Ben Hottel is a leading Orkin entomologist who said that bedbugs are one of the hardest pests to control, especially if they’re brought into the home or hotel. As summer travel increases, it’s critical.
Chicago was ranked as the number one city for the fifth consecutive year. Chicago has been the No. 1 city for five consecutive years. Cleveland, Detroit, Los Angeles. Indianapolis Five cities ranked highest in the number of reported infestations.
Some cities have reported less bed bug infestations year over year: New York City Philadelphia and Charlotte.
The information provided is not meant to cause you to panic or make you sleep with your eyes open next time you are in a hotel. You can protect yourself against bedbugs on your next vacation, whether you are traveling to Chicago or Paris. Orkin calls the method “SLEEP”.
- Search: Orkin says that bed bugs are small, brown, oval-shaped, flat insects about the size and shape of an apple seed. Bed bugs can also be identified by blood stains or inky marks on fabrics, and a musty smell.
- Bed bugs can be found under bedding, curtains, and cushion covers.
- Elevate: Instead of putting your luggage on furniture, you can use the luggage rack that is provided by the accommodation.
- Examine: Check the inside of your luggage when you arrive home to check for bedbugs.
- Place: After you get home, place all your clothing that is dryer safe in the dryer on the highest heat setting for 30 to45 minutes. This will kill any bed bugs or eggs that may be present before they have a chance to spread.
