Chicago Remains The Bedbug Capital As Infestations Continue to Plague Major Midwestern City

City living often evokes an image of bustling streets and vibrant energy, but it also comes with a less desirable aspect—pests. Bedbug infestations have marked a significant concern for urban residents across the nation. In its latest report, Orkin has unveiled alarming details about the cities facing the most severe bedbug issues.

The annual bedbug report, which draws on commercial and residential treatment data collected from May 15, 2024, to May 14, 2025, highlights the metropolitan areas grappling with the highest infestations. According to the report, Chicago continues its reign as the city most plagued by these resilient pests.

Ben Hottel, an entomologist at Orkin based in Atlanta, emphasized the importance of awareness in combating bedbugs. He stated that it is critical for the public to understand how to identify, prevent, and manage bedbug problems effectively.

“Bedbugs are among the most resilient pests, making them exceptionally challenging to control once they invade a home or hotel,” Hottel noted.

Understanding Bedbugs

Bedbugs, roughly the size of an apple seed, are small, flat, and oval-shaped insects that predominantly prefer human hosts over pets. They are adept at hitching rides on personal belongings such as luggage and purses, enabling them to travel between different locations with ease.

The Infestation Rankings

This year, Chicago occupies the top position for the fifth consecutive year on Orkin’s list of the most bedbug-infested cities. Second place belongs to Cleveland, Ohio, while Detroit, Michigan claims the third spot. Los Angeles, California, and Indianapolis, Indiana follow closely behind in fourth and fifth places, respectively.

Significantly, Hartford, Connecticut made headlines by making a remarkable entry on the list. The city debuted at No. 35, climbing a staggering 48 spots—a clear indication of an increase in bedbug activity.

City Comparisons and Trends

In contrast, several cities reported significant reductions in bedbug infestations. Notably, Charlotte, North Carolina; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and New York City saw declines in their rankings. These fallbacks highlight the fluctuating nature of bedbug populations across various urban areas.

On the opposite side of the spectrum, Houston, Texas, earned the title of the least infested city among the 50 cities analyzed. This ranking offers a glimmer of hope for residents in areas with reduced bedbug pressure.

Preventive Measures to Combat Infestations

To assist in the fight against bedbugs, Orkin recommends several practical tips aimed at prevention:

• Inspect Your Surroundings: Always conduct a thorough inspection when entering a new space, searching for physical signs of bedbug presence.
• Check for Signs: Look beneath sheets, cushions, and drapes for bedbugs or their droppings.
• Luggage Precautions: Elevate your luggage on racks and keep it away from your bed or other furniture during travels.
• Post-Travel Inspection: After returning home, carefully examine your luggage again to make sure no pests hitchhiked back with you.
• Use Heat Treatment: Place all dryer-safe clothing from your luggage in the dryer for 30 to 45 minutes on the highest heat setting, as heat can kill any bedbugs that might have found their way into your belongings.

Staying informed and taking proactive measures can make a significant difference in preventing bedbug infestations. With cities like Chicago continuously topping the list, awareness and vigilance are essential for residents to protect their homes and communities.

Looking Ahead: Addressing Urban Pest Control

The persistent problem of bedbug infestations in major cities prompts the need for better pest control solutions and increased public awareness. Collaboration between residents, property owners, and pest control professionals will be vital in managing and ultimately reducing bedbug populations. As urban areas evolve, so must our strategies to combat these resilient pests effectively.

By adopting preventive measures and understanding the nature of bedbugs, urban dwellers can better safeguard their living spaces and ensure a more comfortable environment for themselves and their communities.