Chicago lands crown as bedbug capital of the US: report
Key Points:
- Chicago ranks first in the U.S. for bedbug infestations per capita, attributed to its dense housing, high resident and traveler turnover, and warm summer temperatures.
- Other cities in the top five include Los Angeles, Detroit, Cleveland, and Indianapolis, with the Midwest identified as the most bedbug-affected region.
- Ohio has the most cities on Orkin's 2026 Bed Bug Cities List, with six cities in the top 50, including Cleveland and Columbus in the top 10.
- Newcomers to the top 50 list include Kansas City, Tampa, and Myrtle Beach, highlighting the ongoing need for pest awareness and preparedness.
- Experts advise travelers to inspect hotel rooms and belongings to prevent bedbug infestations, noting that these pests are small, hard to detect, and often spread via luggage.