Orkin's 2026 Bed Bug Cities List ranks Chicago as the most infested city for the fifth consecutive year, with Los Angeles, Detroit, Cleveland, and Indianapolis rounding out the top five. The rankings are based on treatment data from May 2025 to May 2026, covering both residential and commercial properties.
Key Findings and Trends
- Chicago retained its top spot, while Los Angeles climbed two places to No. 2.
- Pittsburgh rose three spots to No. 9, and Philadelphia moved up to No. 22.
- Nashville and Oklahoma City each jumped 10 spots, while Youngstown, Omaha, and Knoxville saw significant declines.
- Baltimore dropped three spots to No. 14.
Expert Insights
Orkin entomologist Shannon Sked noted that rankings fluctuate due to factors like travel trends, treatment resistance, and public awareness campaigns. She emphasized that bed bugs persist across all socioeconomic demographics and sanitation levels.
High-Risk Environments
Densely populated areas with high turnover, such as apartments, dormitories, and hotels, are particularly vulnerable. Popular tourist destinations like Tampa and Myrtle Beach also reported increased bed bug activity.
Methodology
The rankings are derived from Orkin's treatment data, reflecting the metro areas where the company performed the most bed bug treatments over the past year. The list includes both residential and commercial treatments.