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These are the US cities with the most bed bug activity, including Chicago, Los Angeles, Detroit, Cleveland, and Indianapolis, where travelers should be especially vigilant.
If you’re planning a summer getaway, it may be worth adding one more item to your travel checklist: checking your hotel room for bed bugs. Orkin has released its 2026 Bed Bug Cities list.
It highlights the US cities where it performed the most Bed Bug treatments over the past year.
Chicago once again topped the list, followed by Los Angeles, Detroit, Cleveland, and Indianapolis.
Ohio had the strongest overall presence, with six cities appearing in the top 50. New additions to this year’s rankings include Tampa, Florida; Kansas City, Missouri; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
The rankings are based on residential and commercial bed bug treatments performed by Orkin between May 12, 2025, and May 12, 2026. According to the company, densely populated areas and destinations with a high turnover of residents and visitors—including hotels, apartment buildings, and dormitories—can create more opportunities for bed bugs to spread.
Several cities also saw significant movement in the rankings. Nashville and Oklahoma City each climbed 10 spots, while Youngstown, Omaha, and Knoxville experienced some of the largest declines.
“Travel season brings excitement, but it also makes awareness especially important,” said Dr. Shannon Sked, Orkin entomologist and National Technical Director. “A quick inspection of hotels or short-term rentals while traveling, or belongings before unpacking at home, can help travelers reduce the chance of bringing bed bugs home.”
To help travelers remember what to do, Orkin recommends the acronym S.L.E.E.P. For hotels or rentals, Search for signs of bed bugs, Lift sheets and cushions to inspect hiding spots, Elevate luggage on a rack away from the bed, Examine bags thoroughly before leaving, and Place dryer-safe clothing in the dryer on the highest heat setting for 30 to 45 minutes after returning home, especially if staying in high-risk cities like Chicago or Los Angeles.
Orkin noted that factors including travel trends, treatment-resistant bed bug strains, and public education efforts can influence changes in the rankings. Regardless of where you’re traveling, the company recommends inspecting accommodations and addressing any signs of bed bugs as early as possible.
So, upon your arrival at your destination, you will feel more in control and less anxious about bed bug risks.
“You can look for bed bugs around headboards and mattresses. Adults are about the size of an apple seed and may smell musty,” according to experts.
Jessica is a freelance journalist on a quest to see and experience everything our gorgeous planet offers and share her experiences with her fellow travelers. Jessica has written for several world-class Travel Magazines.
