Terminix Says These KY Cities Among Most Bed Bug-Infested in U.S.

Ugh, my skin is crawling just reading that headline! However, I feel it is a public service to share with you what I just found. Every year, pest control company Terminix releases its study on the most bed bug-infested cities in the United States.

Terminix 2025 Bed Bug Study

They would know after all, they are the experts. Using information from over 300 Terminix locations across the country, they have made a list of the top 50 cities with the highest number of cases so far in 2025. Unfortunately, there are several Kentucky cities on there!

More Bed Bugs? NO THANK YOU! Here's Why

According to their website, Terminix Technical Service Manager Eric Braun shared, "We have seen a consistent increase in bed bug control service performed since the ‘new normal’ post-COVID-19 pandemic."

Travel Hot Spots = Bed Bug Paradise

Bed bugs are most common in highly populated areas, so it makes sense that most of the cities on the list are state capitals or hubs for travel and vacation. Other factors include climate and housing trends.

Top Ten Bed Bug-Infested Cities in the U.S. in 2025

It may not come as a surprise that these rank in the top ten. Apparently, this is the second year in a row at the number one spot for the city of brotherly love.

1. Philadelphia
2. New York
3. Cleveland-Akron (Canton)
4. Los Angeles
5. Dallas - Ft. Worth
6. Atlanta
7. Houston
8. Washington, D.C (Hagerstown)
9. San Francisco - Oak - San Jose
10. Indianapolis

Kentucky Cities With the Worst Bed Bug Problems

• Paducah is coming in hot in Western Kentucky at #39.
• Next up, Louisville is hanging out in the #31 slot.
• Lexington is the worst, sitting at # 28.

Get our free mobile app

Signs of Bed Bugs

The signs of a bed bug infestation are pretty glaring. Not only will you find the little critters along the edge of a mattress or furniture cushions, their presence is also marked by a musty smell. If they get ya, you'll see red, itchy bumps and even possibly tiny specks of blood on your sheets.

How to Avoid Bed Bugs While Traveling

If you want to know how to avoid bed bugs while traveling, check out the Terminix website. You'll also see the other cities that have made the top 50 worst bed bug-infested cities in the U.S. and learn how to get rid of the pests if you unfortunately bring a hitchhiker home with you.