Chicago Remains Nation’s Top Bed Bug Hotspot in 2026 Rankings

Orkin’s 2026 report, based on treatment data collected between May 2025 and May 2026, places Los Angeles, Detroit, Cleveland, and Indianapolis immediately behind Chicago in the top five. Ohio maintains a prominent presence on the list, with six cities appearing in the top 50, underscoring a persistent trend of high infestation rates across the Midwest. While these insects are found in diverse environments, high-density areas with significant visitor turnover—such as hotels and dormitories—remain the primary vectors for spread.

Dr. Shannon Sked, an entomologist and National Technical Director at Orkin, warns that the resilience of bed bugs makes them difficult to eradicate once they infiltrate personal belongings. To mitigate the risk of hitchhiking pests, experts recommend the S.L.E.E.P. protocol: searching rooms for reddish-brown stains or exoskeletons, lifting linens to inspect crevices, elevating luggage away from beds, examining gear during repacking, and running clothing through high-heat dryers upon returning home. Early detection remains the most effective defense, as infestations rarely resolve without professional intervention.