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If you’ve ever woken up covered in mysterious, itchy bites, you know the horror of bed bugs. These tiny, apple seed–sized pests can lurk in mattresses, sneak into luggage, and spread with alarming speed. And while infestations can pop up just about anywhere, one U.S. city has once again been crowned the nation’s bed bug capital.
According to Orkin’s 2025 Top 50 Bed Bug Cities List, released this summer, the top spot hasn’t budged — for the fifth straight year, Chicago is the worst city in America for bed bugs.
Chicago stays on top — while some cities fall, others climb fast
While Chicago’s repeat at No. 1 wasn’t a surprise, the rest of the rankings saw major shake-ups. Cleveland and Detroit rose to the No. 2 and No. 3 spots, while Los Angeles and Indianapolis rounded out the top five. Meanwhile, some East Coast cities that were once bed bug hot spots — including New York City (No. 15, down 13 places) and Philadelphia (No. 24, down 22 spots) — dropped significantly.
On the flip side, Hartford, Connecticut, made the most dramatic move, debuting at No. 35 after leaping 48 spots in just one year. Peoria, Illinois (+18), Milwaukee (+15), and Oklahoma City (+14) also climbed the list, signaling fresh trouble in those metro areas.
Why bed bugs are so hard to beat
According to Orkin entomologist Ben Hottel, bed bugs are “some of the most resilient pests in the world,” making them tough to control once they settle into homes, hotels, or businesses. They survive by feeding exclusively on blood — usually while people are asleep — and can easily hitch rides in luggage, purses, and clothing.
That means summer travel season is a risky time. Without proper precautions, an overnight stay in a hotel or rental could lead to a very itchy souvenir back home.
How to protect yourself while traveling
Orkin recommends following the acronym S.L.E.E.P. when staying in hotels or rentals this summer:
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Search the room for live bugs, ink-like stains on fabrics, or shed skins.
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Lift sheets, cushions, and curtains to check hiding spots.
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Elevate luggage on racks instead of placing it on the bed or floor.
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Examine bags carefully before heading home.
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Place all dryer-safe clothes in the dryer on high heat for 30–45 minutes when you return.
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