Chicago Named Worst US City for Bed Bugs for Sixth Year in Orkin 2026 Report

[Chicago, July 23, 2026] — Chicago has officially been designated as the most bed-bug-afflicted city in the United States for the sixth year in a row. According to the recently released Orkin 2026 Bed Bug Cities List, the metropolitan area continues to struggle with pest infestations that impact both residential and commercial sectors.

The findings are based on professional treatment data collected between May 12, 2025, and May 12, 2026. While these pests do not carry diseases, their prevalence in high-traffic areas like hotels, short-term rentals, and public transit systems poses a significant nuisance for the millions of tourists and business travelers who visit the city annually.

Urban Density and Transit Hubs Fuel Chicago Infestations

The persistent ranking of Chicago at the top of the list is attributed to several intersecting urban factors. Industry reports suggest that the city's high population density, combined with a robust network of public transportation and high hotel occupancy rates, creates an ideal environment for bed bugs to proliferate.

As a primary travel gateway for North America, Chicago sees a relentless flow of international and domestic passengers. This constant movement increases the likelihood of bed bugs "hitchhiking" inside suitcases, clothing, and personal gear, allowing the pests to migrate rapidly from one property to another.

It is important to note that these rankings are based on the volume of professional treatments requested rather than a percentage of total properties. This means that while the city has the highest number of interventions, it does not imply that every hotel or residence in the city is infested.

Top 10 US Cities for Bed Bug Activity in 2026

The Orkin 2026 report provides a comprehensive look at the most affected urban centers across the United States. The data reflects verified treatment counts, offering a more accurate picture than anecdotal reports or sightings.

Rank	City	State
1	Chicago	Illinois
2	Los Angeles	California
3	Detroit	Michigan
4	Cleveland	Ohio
5	Indianapolis	Indiana
6	Springfield	Illinois
7	Washington, D.C.	District of Columbia
8	Columbus	Ohio
9	Pittsburgh	Pennsylvania
10	Grand Rapids	Michigan

Notably, Los Angeles saw a rise in the rankings, moving up two spots from the previous year. Conversely, Cleveland experienced a slight decline, dropping two positions in the 2026 list.

Health Implications and Risks for International Travelers

Medical professionals clarify that bed bugs are not vectors for disease, meaning they do not transmit pathogens to humans. However, the physical and psychological impact of an infestation can be severe.

Bites from these insects typically result in intense itching and skin irritation. In more sensitive individuals, these bites can trigger allergic reactions. While not a public health crisis in terms of mortality or disease, the primary danger for travelers is the accidental transport of these pests into their own homes. Once a bed bug infestation takes hold in a residential setting, the cost and effort required for eradication can be substantial.

Common Hiding Spots in Hospitality Environments

Bed bugs are specialized for concealment, preferring small, dark crevices near areas where humans sleep. They are roughly the size of an apple seed and are often invisible to the casual observer. Common hiding locations include:

• The seams and folds of mattresses
• Headboards and bed frames
• Upholstered chairs and sofas
• Cracks in wall baseboards
• The interior linings of luggage and clothing

Because airports, railway stations, and hotels experience a high volume of guest turnover, these locations are prime zones for accidental exposure.

Implementing the S.L.E.E.P. Prevention Protocol

To mitigate the risk of transporting pests across borders or into homes, industry experts recommend the S.L.E.E.P. method for all travelers:

Search: Conduct a thorough visual inspection of the room. Look for tiny dark spots (fecal matter), shed skins, or live insects on mattress seams and upholstered furniture.

Lift: Before unpacking, lift the corners of sheets and blankets. Inspect the edges of the mattress and the box spring carefully.

Elevate: Avoid placing suitcases on beds or carpeted floors. Instead, utilize metal luggage racks or store bags in the bathroom, where the pests are less likely to thrive.

Examine: Check all clothing and personal items during the packing process and once more before checking out of the accommodation.

Place: Upon returning home, immediately put all dryer-safe clothing into a tumble dryer on high heat for 15 to 20 minutes. High temperatures are an effective way to kill any insects that may have survived the journey.

Protocol for Discovering Infestations During a Trip

If a traveler identifies signs of bed bugs in their room, the immediate priority is notification and isolation. Guests are advised to alert hotel management instantly and request a room change. It is critical to ask for a room that is not adjacent to, directly above, or directly below the infested unit to avoid "cross-contamination" through walls.

Until the situation is resolved, luggage should remain zipped and closed. Travelers should perform a meticulous inspection of their belongings before continuing to their next destination to prevent spreading the infestation to other hotels.

Broader Implications for the US Tourism Industry

Despite these rankings, officials suggest that the data should not serve as a deterrent for visiting these cities. Many of the locations on the list remain premier destinations for global business and leisure.

The report serves as a reminder that urban travel requires a baseline of vigilance. By adopting simple inspection habits and post-trip laundry routines, travelers can significantly reduce their risk. As the volume of domestic and international travel continues to climb in 2026, the responsibility for prevention falls on both the individual traveler and the hospitality industry's commitment to rigorous pest management.

Travelers are encouraged to remain vigilant and proactive to ensure a pest-free journey.

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