California, renowned for its beaches and vibrant cities, is now grappling with a less glamorous reputation: a surge in bed bug infestations. In 2025, five major California cities have emerged as hotspots in the national bed bug crisis, prompting public health campaigns, legislative action, and heightened vigilance among residents and travelers alike.
Top 5 Most Bed Bug-Infested Cities in California
Recent reports and pest control company rankings consistently identify these five cities as the most affected by bed bug infestations in California:
- Los Angeles
- San Francisco
- San Diego
- Oakland
- Long Beach
These cities have seen a significant uptick in bed bug treatments, reflecting both the scale and persistence of the problem.
Los Angeles: The Epicenter of Infestation
Los Angeles stands out as the epicenter of California’s bed bug crisis, frequently ranking among the top cities nationwide for infestations.
The city’s dense population, global tourism, and extensive public transportation network create ideal conditions for the pests to spread. Bed bugs have been reported in hotels, apartments, public transit, and even entertainment venues, making vigilance essential for both residents and visitors.
San Francisco: An Ongoing Battle
San Francisco faces its own unique challenges, with high housing density and a competitive rental market exacerbating the spread of bed bugs.
Reports indicate a steady increase in infestations across both residential and commercial properties, with local authorities stepping up public awareness campaigns and resources for affected residents.
San Diego: A Growing Concern
San Diego’s warm, temperate climate allows bed bugs to thrive year-round. The city has experienced a noticeable rise in reported cases, prompting expanded educational efforts and new prevention initiatives to curb the spread.
Oakland and Long Beach: Rising Risks
Oakland and Long Beach have also reported significant increases in bed bug cases, attributed to factors such as high housing density, increased travel, and the movement of goods.
Both cities are responding with public awareness campaigns and resources to help residents identify and address infestations promptly.
Why Are Bed Bugs Spreading in California?
Several factors contribute to the bed bug surge in California:
- Increased Travel: Bed bugs often hitch rides in luggage and clothing, spreading rapidly through airports, hotels, and public transit.
- Pesticide Resistance: Bed bugs are evolving resistance to traditional pesticides, complicating eradication efforts.
- Secondhand Furniture: The popularity of thrift shopping and secondhand items has inadvertently facilitated the spread of bed bugs into new homes.
- Short-Term Rentals: High turnover in short-term rental properties increases the risk of infestations spreading quickly.
Public Health and Legislative Response
While bed bugs do not transmit diseases, their bites can cause allergic reactions, insomnia, anxiety, and secondary skin infections from scratching. In response, several California cities have enacted:
- Mandatory Disclosure Laws: Landlords in cities like Los Angeles must now disclose past infestations to prospective tenants.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Workshops and guides are being provided to help residents identify and prevent infestations.
- Investment in Research: Funding is being directed toward innovative pest control solutions, including heat treatments and biological controls.
Staying Vigilant
With bed bug infestations on the rise, Californians and visitors are urged to remain vigilant. Regular inspections, early detection, and community engagement are key to curbing the spread of these persistent pests.
As California’s major cities continue to battle the bed bug onslaught, awareness and proactive measures remain the best defense against this growing public health nuisance.
Sources:
- https://passingthru.com/californias-bed-bug-problem-5-cities-where-youre-most-likely-to-find-them/
- https://caanet.org/two-california-cities-named-in-orkins-top-50-bed-bug-cities-list/
- https://www.iheart.com/content/2024-01-26-two-california-cities-named-among-worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-in-the-us/
- https://insight-pest.com/blog/bed-bug-infestations/
- https://www.californiacitynews.org/2021/03/these-california-cities-are-among-worst-bed-bug-infestations.html