Chicago Lands Unwanted Crown as America’s Bedbug Capital, New Report Finds
Chicago has once again earned an unfortunate distinction, topping the list of U.S. cities with the highest bed bug activity, according to a newly released report from pest control company Orkin.
The annual 2026 Bed Bug Cities List ranked Chicago as the nation’s leading hotspot for bed bug treatments, marking another year at the top of the rankings. Los Angeles, Detroit, Cleveland, and Indianapolis rounded out the top five cities with the highest reported activity. ()
Why Chicago Continues to Rank First
Experts say several factors contribute to Chicago’s recurring position on the list. The city’s dense population, large number of apartment buildings, busy tourism industry, and frequent business travel create ideal conditions for bed bugs to spread.
Unlike pests attracted to dirt or poor sanitation, bed bugs hitch rides on luggage, clothing, furniture, and other personal belongings, making hotels, public transportation, and multi-unit housing common locations for infestations. ()
Summer Travel Raises the Risk
The report arrives as millions of Americans prepare for summer vacations, a time when bed bug activity often increases due to higher travel volumes.
Orkin recommends travelers inspect hotel mattresses, headboards, and nearby furniture before unpacking. Keeping luggage off beds and upholstered furniture, along with washing and drying clothing on high heat after returning home, can help prevent unwanted hitchhikers from making their way into the house. ()
Midwest Dominates the Rankings
While Chicago claimed the top spot, the Midwest featured prominently throughout the rankings. Ohio had the highest number of cities in the top 50, reflecting a broader regional trend of increased bed bug treatment activity.
Several vacation destinations also climbed the list this year, highlighting how increased travel can contribute to the spread of the insects between cities. ()
How the Rankings Are Determined
The annual rankings are based on the number of residential and commercial bed bug treatments performed by Orkin between May 12, 2025, and May 12, 2026. The list measures treatment activity rather than the total number of confirmed infestations, offering a snapshot of where pest control services were most frequently required. ()
Recognizing Bed Bugs
Adult bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects roughly the size of an apple seed. They typically hide in mattress seams, bed frames, furniture, and cracks during the day before emerging at night to feed on human blood.
Common signs of an infestation include itchy bite marks, tiny rust-colored stains on bedding, shed skins, and live insects hiding in crevices. Because bed bugs reproduce quickly and are difficult to eliminate, experts recommend seeking professional treatment if an infestation is suspected. ()
Staying Protected
Although bed bugs do not typically transmit diseases, infestations can be stressful, expensive, and difficult to eradicate. Experts advise travelers and homeowners to remain vigilant, inspect accommodations carefully, and act quickly if signs of bed bugs are discovered.
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