Chicago tops bed bug list again as Orkin’s 2025 report shows Midwest bed bug infestations persist
For the fifth straight year, Chicago is the most bed bug–infested U.S. city, Orkin’s 2025 ranking shows, based on treatments from May 15, 2024, through May 14, 2025, and highlighting persistent Midwest infestation patterns nationwide.
- Chicago is No. 1 for the fifth consecutive year — see the Orkin press room.
- The ranking uses the number of professional treatments Orkin performed between May 15, 2024 and May 14, 2025 (Orkin).
- Top five metros: Chicago, Cleveland, Detroit, Los Angeles, Indianapolis (PCT Online).
- Midwest cities dominate the top 10, underscoring regional trends in reporting and treatments (PCT Online; CBS Chicago).
What Orkin’s 2025 bed bug report found
Orkin’s annual rankings are derived from the company’s internal treatment data across its nationwide network. The 2025 list covers professional bed bug treatments performed from May 15, 2024, through May 14, 2025, and reflects both residential and commercial work.
Top five metros
Chicago led the list, followed by Cleveland and Detroit. Los Angeles ranked fourth and Indianapolis came in fifth. The ranking is based on Orkin treatment volume in each metro area (PCT Online; PR Newswire).
Midwest bed bug infestations remain a major pattern in 2025
A clear regional pattern emerges: the Midwest dominates the top ranks. Besides Chicago, metros such as Cleveland, Detroit, Indianapolis, Grand Rapids, Columbus, Champaign and Milwaukee appear among the most affected, suggesting continued regional concern for pest pros and residents alike (PCT Online; CBS Chicago).
Notable shifts and unexpected climbs
The 2025 list also shows movement: Hartford, Connecticut made the largest jump, rising 48 spots to No. 35 — a signal that areas not long considered hotspots can see rapid increases in reports. By contrast, several large metros, including Charlotte, Philadelphia and New York, recorded overall declines in reported treatments; New York moved down to 15th on the list (PR Newswire).
What drives these shifts
Experts and Orkin attribute changes to travel patterns, reporting habits, local prevention campaigns and control efforts. Increased movement of people and goods raises spread risk, while better awareness and rapid treatment can reduce repeat infestations in some metros (Orkin; PR Newswire).
Industry context and prevention advice
Orkin emphasizes that the list reflects professional treatment volume, not a scientific insect census. Still, the company’s broad branch and franchise footprint provides a large dataset for year-to-year comparisons (Stock Titan; Orkin).
“Early detection and practical prevention are crucial,” say Orkin entomologists — inspect bedding and furniture regularly, check hotel rooms and luggage while traveling, and call a licensed pest-management professional at first sign.
Implications for Sonoma, California
Economic: Sonoma’s tourism and hospitality sectors should view national bed bug trends as a reminder to maintain prevention plans, budget for inspections, and prepare for potential treatment costs and reputational risk.
Political: Local leaders may face calls to review lodging and rental inspection standards. Balanced steps — targeted inspections for high-risk properties, education for landlords and tenants, and partnerships with licensed pest-control firms — fit a pragmatic approach.
Social: Though bed bugs do not transmit disease, infestations cause stress and stigma. Accessible resources and outreach can help residents report and treat infestations without fear of eviction or excessive cost.
Cultural relevance: Sonoma’s hospitality brand depends on health and safety standards. Clear public messaging and collaboration among hotels, public health and pest professionals help protect tourism and neighborhoods.
Practical applications for residents and businesses in Sonoma
- Hotels and short-term rentals: Institute routine mattress and room checks between guests, train staff to spot signs, and inform guests about prevention (Orkin).
- Travelers: Inspect mattress seams and headboards, keep luggage on racks away from floors and walls, and launder clothing in hot water after trips if exposure is suspected (PR Newswire).
- Renters and homeowners: Watch for early signs — small reddish bites in a line, dark spots on bedding, shed skins — and call a licensed pest-control professional at first sign (Orkin).
- Local government & housing orgs: Consider education campaigns, hotlines or referral lists of licensed firms to help residents act quickly and reduce stigma.
Sources and further reading
- Orkin press room, “Worst Cities for Bed Bugs — Annual Rankings”
- PR Newswire, “Chicago tops Orkin’s 2025 bed bug cities list again”
- PCT Online coverage of Orkin’s 2025 list
- CBS Chicago report on bed bug city rankings
- Stock Titan summary of Orkin report
Bottom line: For Sonoma residents and businesses — stay alert, inspect regularly, and act fast. The 2025 list highlights how travel and regional patterns shape pest risks and reinforces the value of prevention and prompt professional response.
