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Chicago Tops Orkin's 2026 Bed Bug Cities List

As the summer season approaches, Chicago once again claims the top spot on Orkin's 2026 Bed Bug Cities List, a ranking that spotlights cities grappling with heightened bed bug infestations. This year's list unveiled a concerning trend as several well-loved vacation destinations, including Tampa, Florida, and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, have climbed the ranks, underscoring the increasing prevalence of bed bug issues nationwide.

According to the data compiled by Orkin, a leader in pest control, cities with the highest instances of bed bug treatments reveal a stark correlation between increased urbanization and pest populations. Chicago retained its status with the highest bed bug infestation rate, followed closely by Los Angeles, Detroit, Cleveland, and Indianapolis. It's worth noting that Ohio boasts six cities among the top 50, marking a significant presence in this year's rankings.

Bed bugs can thrive in various environments where people frequently come and go. High-traffic accommodations like hotels, dormitories, and apartment buildings present fertile ground for these pests to multiply due to the constant influx of new residents and visitors. Orkin's report indicates that as cities predicted to host major events, concerts, and festivals prepare for an influx of travelers, vigilance against bed bugs becomes even more critical.

The rankings released by Orkin reflect treatment data recorded from May 12, 2025, to May 12, 2026, which includes both residential and commercial extermination services.

Importance of Awareness

Dr. Shannon Sked, a prominent entomologist and National Technical Director at Orkin, emphasizes that while travel season brings excitement it also necessitates increased awareness of bed bug risks. Once these pests are introduced into households or hotel rooms, they can be challenging to eliminate. The professional notes, “A quick inspection of hotels or short-term rentals while traveling can help travelers reduce the chance of bringing bed bugs home.”

Often undetected until it’s too late, bed bugs can easily hitch rides back to unsuspecting homes, camouflaging themselves among personal belongings. Hence, knowing how to conduct effective inspections prior to settling into accommodations is vital for reducing the risk of an unwanted homecoming souvenir.

Top Cities for Bed Bug Activity:

1. Chicago
2. Los Angeles
3. Detroit
4. Cleveland, Ohio
5. Indianapolis
6. Springfield, Ill.
7. Washington, D.C.
8. Columbus, Ohio
9. Pittsburgh
10. Grand Rapids, Mich.

In addition to this list, cities like Nashville and Oklahoma City have shown movement upwards, especially with Nashville climbing 10 spots from the previous year. Conversely, Youngstown, Omaha, and Knoxville experienced substantial declines in their rankings. Such fluctuations in bed bug activity reveal an evolving landscape that warrants constant vigilance.

S.L.E.E.P. Tips for Prevention

To combat the risks posed by bed bugs, travelers are advised to remember the acronym S.L.E.E.P., which encompasses key preventative measures:

• - Search thoroughly for signs of infestations, paying close attention to the bed and furniture. Look for reddish-brown bugs, shed skins, or dark stains on linens.
• - Lift sheets, cushions, and curtains to check for bed bugs or any signs before unpacking.
• - Elevate your luggage off the ground and keep it away from furniture to minimize contact.
• - Examine your luggage while repacking and again upon returning home.
• - Place all dryer-safe clothing in the dryer for 30 to 45 minutes on high heat immediately upon arrival to kill any lingering bed bugs.

Apart from these standard tips, Dr. Sked mentions that public education plays a fundamental role in reducing the incidence of bed bugs moving forward. He adds that factors such as travel trends, treatment-resistant strains, and proactive educational campaigns contribute to changes in the rankings annually. Nonetheless, residents should remain proactive, knowing that these pests can infiltrate any community, regardless of socioeconomic environments or cleanliness levels.

For homeowners, early detection remains paramount to effectively tackling infestations. If any signs are noticed, involving a pest control professional immediately, like those at Orkin, is crucial for efficient management of these resilient pests.

With over 125 years of experience in dealing with bed bugs, Orkin provides specialized services aimed at assessing and treating infestations, ensuring a comprehensive approach to pest control.

For further insights about prevention and control methods regarding bed bugs, interested readers can visit Orkin.com.

Founded in 1901, Orkin continues to innovate in pest control, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding public health while educating consumers about pest-related risks across the globe.