The persistent and unsettling rise of bed bugs across the United States has put several Georgia cities on high alert. As these tiny pests continue to spread rapidly, six urban centers in Georgia are bearing the brunt, employing rigorous measures and public awareness campaigns to control infestations and prevent further outbreaks in 2025.
The Bed Bug Problem: Why Georgia Is At Risk
Bed bugs thrive in densely populated areas with high travel rates, making Georgia a prime target. The warm climate and constant influx of visitors, especially in metropolitan regions, create ideal conditions for these resilient insects. Once considered rare, bed bug outbreaks have become routine headaches for residents and visitors alike, affecting homes, hotels, and public spaces.
The Hot Spots: Georgia’s Most Affected Cities
According to recent studies and pest control reports, these six cities are combatting the worst of the bed bug epidemic:
1. Atlanta
Atlanta consistently ranks among the top ten worst cities for bed bugs nationwide, with pest control services responding to record numbers of bed bug-related calls in 2025. The city’s dense housing, vibrant hospitality sector, and heavy travel all contribute to its vulnerability. Residents are advised to check hotel accommodations and personal belongings regularly.
2. Sandy Springs
A surprising entrant to the list, Sandy Springs faces mounting cases as bed bugs spread quickly in shared living environments. Ranked 85th overall for infestations, the local government is launching awareness campaigns focused on early detection and safe remediation practices.
3. Savannah
Savannah’s historic architecture and bustling tourism make it uniquely susceptible to bed bugs. Ranked 145th, ongoing bed bug education in hotels and historic inns is a major priority, as older buildings provide countless hiding spots for pests.
4. Macon
Macon’s high-density residential settings have propelled it to 248th in the national ranking. The city is encouraging professional extermination and routine inspections to help stem the tide.
5. South Fulton
South Fulton (ranked 257th) is experiencing a sharp uptick in cases as the population grows and multi-family residences multiply. Targeted school and community programs inform citizens about prevention and prompt identification.
6. Athens
With a lively college environment and frequent turnover in buildings, Athens finds itself ranked 264th in bed bug outbreaks. Student housing is undergoing stricter monthly checks, and local authorities are promoting guidelines to keep infestations from spreading during peak move-in periods.
Combating the Bed Bug Onslaught
Georgia cities are responding with determined action:
Public Education:Â Workshops and seminars help residents recognize bed bug signs, like rusty stains or shed skins on bedding.
Professional Extermination:Â Authorities urge affected citizens to avoid DIY removal, requiring certified pest control technicians for effective eradication.
Travel Vigilance:Â Advice centers on inspecting hotel rooms and luggage after travel and using heat to kill possible stowaways.
The Takeaway: Community Vigilance Is Critical
As bed bugs become an ever-present issue, vigilance, swift action, and informed prevention are the state’s best defense. Whether at home or traveling, awareness is the key to winning Georgia’s battle against this persistent insect invasion.
Sources
[1] https://patch.com/georgia/atlanta/worst-ga-cities-bed-bug-infestations-plus-dc-report
[2] https://www.lajaunies.com/blog/americas-most-bed-bug-infested-cities/
[3] https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/atlanta-named-6th-worst-us-city-bed-bugs-2025-terminix-survey-finds
[4] https://a-z-animals.com/articles/these-10-u-s-cities-have-more-bed-bugs-than-anywhere-else-in-america/
[5] https://www.marthastewart.com/cities-with-highest-bed-bug-infestations-11768884
