Bed bugs are making an alarming comeback across New Jersey, with several cities facing persistent infestations that challenge both residents and local health officials.
The state’s proximity to national bed bug hotspots like New York and Philadelphia only intensifies the threat, as these pests easily hitch rides on luggage, clothing, and furniture, spreading rapidly through densely populated urban centers.
Here’s a look at five New Jersey cities actively battling the bed bug surge and what’s being done to fight back.
1. Jersey City: A National Hotspot
Jersey City has been singled out as one of the nation’s worst cities for bed bug infestations, ranking 10th overall in a 2024 national survey.
The city’s high population density and abundance of multi-unit residential buildings increase the risk, while the volume of used furniture stores and transient accommodations further exacerbates the problem.
Despite city officials disputing the methodology of such rankings-arguing they rely more on internet searches than hard infestation data-residents and pest control professionals report ongoing struggles with the pests.
2. Paterson: High Infestation Rates in Apartments
Paterson is among four New Jersey cities highlighted in a Rutgers University study for having significant bed bug problems, especially in low-income apartment complexes.
Researchers found that infestation rates in Paterson buildings ranged from 3.8% to as high as 29.5%, with an average of 12% of apartments affected.
The study revealed that nearly half of residents were unaware of the infestations, underscoring the need for better education and proactive inspections.
3. Hackensack: Hidden Infestations
Hackensack also featured in the Rutgers study, showing that bed bug infestations are widespread and often undetected by residents.
The city’s multi-unit housing and high turnover rates contribute to the persistence and spread of bed bugs. Local efforts focus on regular inspections, tenant education, and encouraging prompt reporting of suspected infestations.
4. Bayonne: Vulnerable Populations at Risk
Bayonne’s apartment buildings, particularly those serving low-income and high-turnover populations, have seen infestation rates similar to Paterson and Hackensack.
The Rutgers research points to beds, sofas, and upholstered chairs as prime hiding spots for bed bugs. City and building managers are increasing efforts to provide information on prevention and to coordinate professional extermination services.
5. Irvington: Community-Wide Challenges
Irvington rounds out the list of cities in the Rutgers study, with infestation rates in some buildings reaching nearly 30%.
The challenges here mirror those in other affected cities: lack of awareness, limited resources for professional pest control, and the resilience of bed bugs in multi-family dwellings.
Community outreach and coordinated pest management strategies are key components of Irvington’s response.
Why Is New Jersey So Vulnerable?
New Jersey’s vulnerability stems from:
- Its dense urban centers and high rates of multi-family housing.
- Proximity to New York City and Philadelphia, two of the top three U.S. cities for bed bug infestations.
- High rates of travel and movement of people and goods, especially used furniture, which is a common vector for bed bug spread.
How Cities Are Fighting Back
- Public Education: Cities are ramping up awareness campaigns to help residents identify and report infestations early.
- Regular Inspections: Especially in high-risk buildings, visual inspections and bed bug traps are being used to detect problems before they spread.
- Professional Pest Control: Municipalities and property managers are partnering with pest control experts for heat treatments, pesticides, and integrated pest management.
- Support for Vulnerable Residents: Special attention is given to low-income and high-turnover housing, where infestations are most persistent.
Jersey City, Paterson, Hackensack, Bayonne, and Irvington are at the forefront of New Jersey’s battle against bed bugs. Through a combination of public education, proactive inspections, and professional extermination, these cities are working to contain and eliminate infestations.
However, with bed bugs’ resilience and the state’s geographic challenges, ongoing vigilance remains essential for residents and officials alike.
Sources:
- https://nj1015.com/new-jersey-has-one-of-the-worst-places-for-bed-bug-infestations/
- https://www.cbsnews.com/news/new-jersey-bedbug-study-reveals-half-dont-know-theyre-infested/
- https://dogteam6bedbugs.com/bed-bugs-in-new-jersey-news-updates/
- https://943thepoint.com/new-jersey-bed-bugs/
- https://nj1015.com/new-jersey-is-surrounded-by-bed-bugs/