Mosquito Season: Biggest Hotspots in America
As summer kicks off, Americans across the country prepare for outdoor activities, only to face the buzzing menace of mosquitoes. According to Orkin's 2025 ranking of mosquito-infested cities, some places are particularly hard-hit by these pesky insects. Let's dive into the details of this year's list, key cities, and what it means for residents.
The Top Mosquito Cities
For the fourth consecutive year,
Los Angeles has earned the infamous title of the number one mosquito hotspot in the United States. The ranking is based on the number of residential mosquito treatments performed by Orkin from April 2024 to March 2025, and reflects the increasing need for effective mosquito management.
Hot on Los Angeles' heels are major metropolitan areas like
Chicago,
New York,
Atlanta, and notably,
Detroit, which made significant strides, jumping five places to round out the top five for the first time ever. Trending closer to the top as well are
Cleveland and
Denver, both making their debut in the top ten, underscoring a shifting pattern as northern cities see climbs in mosquito activity correlated with rising temperatures.
California remains a stronghold for mosquito activity—Los Angeles is joined by
San Francisco,
Sacramento,
San Diego, and
Fresno in the top fifty, affirming the West Coast’s vulnerability due to its warm climate and proximity to standing water sources.
Complete List of the Top 10 Cities:
1. Los Angeles
2. Chicago (+1)
3. New York (-1)
4. Atlanta (+1)
5. Detroit (+5)
6. Houston
7. Dallas (-3)
8. Washington, D.C. (-1)
9. Cleveland (+10)
10. Denver (+6)
While the presence of mosquitoes can be a nuisance, the health implications are a far more serious concern. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlight that mosquitoes are responsible for over 600,000 deaths each year, mostly due to malaria, along with other transmitted diseases like West Nile virus and Zika virus.
The Importance of Mosquito Control
Orkin’s entomologist
Frank Meek emphasizes that
mosquito control isn't just about avoiding itchy bites; it is about protecting public health and community welfare. With mosquito-related diseases on the rise, it's crucial for homeowners to take proactive measures as the weather warms up.
As part of its commitment to public health, Orkin is launching the “
Mosquitoes Don’t Deserve a Drop” campaign in collaboration with the American Red Cross. From
May 20 to June 30, 2025, for each mosquito control service purchased, Orkin will donate $25 to the Red Cross, pledging up to $250,000 to help maintain a healthy blood supply across the United States.
Tips for Homeowners
For those living in mosquito-infested areas, there are several methods to help decrease their populations. Employing the acronym
BITE, homeowners can remember the following steps to protect themselves:
- - Block access to skin with long sleeves, pants, and CDC-recommended repellents.
- - Install tight-fitting screens on windows and doors to keep the pests outside.
- - Trim shrubs, grass, and vegetation where mosquitoes may rest.
- - Eliminate standing water sources, essential breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
These practical measures, combined with community awareness, can greatly reduce mosquito populations and the risks associated with them.
For further information on mosquito prevention and control, visit
Orkin.com.
About Orkin, LLC
Founded in 1901, Orkin is a leading provider of pest control services and protection against various pests, including termites and rodents. Orkin’s extensive network includes 358 owned branches and numerous franchises across the U.S. and around the world. Through its partnership with the American Red Cross and initiatives aimed at safeguarding public health, Orkin continues to play a pivotal role in educating communities about the threats posed by pests.
For a deeper dive into their services or career opportunities, check out
Orkin's website.