City life comes with perks—vibrant culture, endless food options, and skyscrapers that touch the clouds. But apparently, tiny hitchhikers love it too. For the fifth year in a row, Chicago tops Orkin’s annual Bedbug Report, claiming the title of America’s Bedbug Capital.
The study evaluated commercial and residential treatment data from May 2024 through May 2025, ranking the top 50 metro areas for bedbug activity. Following Chicago were Cleveland, Ohio, and Detroit, Michigan, with Los Angeles, California, and Indianapolis, Indiana rounding out the top five. Meanwhile, Houston, Texas, claimed the title of the least infested city—a small comfort for Texans who thought they had it rough with traffic.
Bedbugs might be small—just 3/16 of an inch—but they’re incredibly resilient. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), bedbugs don’t spread disease, but their bites can cause itching, allergic reactions, and serious sleep disruption. “These pests are experts at hiding and traveling undetected,” says Orkin entomologist Ben Hottel. “Understanding how to identify and prevent them is essential for residents and travelers alike.”
How Bedbugs Spread
Bedbugs hitch rides on luggage, backpacks, clothing, and even furniture. Once inside a home or hotel, they multiply quickly. A study in the Journal of Economic Entomology (2024) found that urban areas with high population density and frequent travel are particularly vulnerable to infestations.
According to Orkin’s 2025 report, Chicago is followed by Cleveland, Detroit, and Los Angeles on the top 5 list. Interestingly, Hartford, Connecticut, jumped 48 spots this year, indicating a sharp rise in bedbug activity. Meanwhile, cities like Houston and Charlotte saw declines, showing that infestations can fluctuate based on prevention and awareness.
Prevention Tips That Actually Work
“Bedbugs are incredibly resilient pests, making them extremely difficult to control once they enter a home or hotel,” explains a leading entomologist specializing in urban pest management. “That’s why prevention and early detection are crucial.”
You don’t have to panic—but staying vigilant is key. Experts recommend:
- Inspect hotel rooms carefully – Check mattresses, box springs, and furniture for tiny brown oval bugs or specks of blood.
- Elevate luggage off beds and floors – Keep bags on racks, away from furniture.
- Use heat to kill any hitchhikers – Dryer-safe clothing should go in the dryer for 30–45 minutes on high heat after travel.
- Regularly inspect personal items – Jackets, purses, and backpacks can hide pests.
- Know the signs – Red itchy bites in a line or clusters can indicate an infestation.
The CDC emphasizes that prevention is the best approach. Quick identification and proper handling of belongings can stop an infestation before it takes hold.
Takeaway
Living in a bustling city doesn’t mean you have to live with pests. By staying informed, following expert guidance, and checking your personal items regularly, you can enjoy city life without becoming a bedbug host.
