Since the resurgence of bed bug infestations in the United States, Orkin and Terminix, both nationwide pest control companies, have compiled lists of the Most Bed Bug Infested Cities in America. These lists are comprised of statistical information gathered from their offices that are located throughout the country. This is one list that no city in America wants to gain notoriety for being a part of.
Some cities, such as New York City, have noticed a steady decline in reports of bed bug infestations. This decline has dropped New York from the 7th place ranking in 2010 to 9th place in 2011. Despite New York City’s drop in bed bug numbers, Orkin reports that they have seen a 33.6 percent increase in bed bug business throughout the United States in 2011 in comparison to 2010. The great news is that New Jersey did not make Orkin’s Top 50 list! You may see the entire Top 50 Most Bed Bug Infested Cities rankings via the article in the Wall Street Journal dated March 15, 2012.
Many of the cities listed are those that are popular spring break and summertime destinations so travelers should be on high alert. Los Angeles, which was previously ranked as number 25, has climbed up 20 spots and is now considered to be the 5th Most Bed Bug Infested City in America. Another California hot spot, San Francisco, climbed from 47th to 12th place. Miami/Fort Lauderdale, FL jumped from 51st place up to 24th, and West Palm Beach, FL, jumped into the 50 spot after not making the list in previous years. Not all news is grim however. In addition to the decline in bed bugs in New York City, other cities seem to be getting a handle on their bloodsuckers. There are some cities that have a noticeable decline. Washington, DC dropped 3 places, Dayton, Ohio dropped 7 places, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania dropped 9 places, Lexington, Kentucky dropped 13 places, Buffalo, New York and Hartford, Connecticut dropped 16 places, Minneapolist/St. Paul, Minnesota dropped 20 places, and Albany, New York dropped a whopping 23 places.
Monmouth County, NJ pest control experts say to be vigilant in your quest to find bed bugs while you travel. If you happen to bring the bloodsuckers home with you, it is imperative that you call a licensed pest control professional as soon as possible.