Florida is facing a significant surge in bed bug infestations, with several cities emerging as hotspots due to the state’s warm, humid climate, booming tourism, and dense urban centers. While Florida cities have not cracked the national top 10 for worst infestations, the problem is widespread and growing, prompting aggressive action from local governments, pest control professionals, and public health agencies.
Florida’s Bed Bug Hotspots
Orlando, Tampa, Miami, Fort Myers, Cape Canaveral, and Sarasota are at the forefront of the state’s battle against bed bugs. Orlando consistently ranks as Florida’s top city for bed bug activity, largely due to its status as a global tourism hub with attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. High hotel occupancy and constant visitor turnover make it a prime location for infestations, leading the city to increase hotel inspections and launch public education campaigns.
Tampa has seen a dramatic rise in bed bug cases, jumping ten spots to No. 31 on Orkin’s 2024 Top 50 Bed Bug Cities list. As a tourist and business hub, Tampa’s public health departments receive thousands of complaints annually, resulting in stricter guidelines for hotels and rentals.
Miami, frequently listed among the nation’s most bed bug-infested cities, ranked 22nd in a 2024 national study. The city’s international airport and bustling hospitality sector make it especially vulnerable, prompting rigorous inspections and public awareness campaigns.
Fort Myers is another hotspot, especially popular with tourists and seasonal residents. Hotels and short-term rentals in the city often report infestations, and local initiatives focus on public education and rapid response.
Cape Canaveral faces unique challenges due to its cruise port and the Kennedy Space Center, with international travel fueling the spread of bed bugs. The reemergence of the tropical bed bug, a fast-spreading species, has been linked to cruise ship traffic, prompting authorities to monitor hotels, cruise terminals, and public spaces more closely.
Sarasota, along with St. Petersburg, has also been highlighted in recent rankings, with Sarasota coming in at No. 26 on Terminix’s 2024 list. Increased bed bug activity in these cities is attributed to their own tourism and travel connections.
Why Are These Cities Hit Hard?
Florida’s year-round warm and humid climate creates ideal breeding conditions for bed bugs. Major airports, cruise ports, and high hotel occupancy rates mean bed bugs can easily hitchhike in luggage and personal belongings. Dense housing and frequent turnover in accommodations also make it easier for infestations to spread rapidly.
How Are Cities Responding?
In response to the onslaught, cities are increasing inspections of hotels, rentals, and public accommodations, launching public education campaigns on prevention and detection, and implementing stricter guidelines for property owners and managers. Rapid response teams have been established to address reported infestations quickly, aiming to contain outbreaks before they spread further.
The Bottom Line
Orlando, Tampa, Miami, Fort Myers, Cape Canaveral, and Sarasota are leading Florida’s fight against bed bugs, highlighting the importance of vigilance, public awareness, and swift action. As infestations rise, these cities are taking proactive steps to protect both residents and the millions of visitors who flock to the Sunshine State each year.
Sources
[1] https://www.clickorlando.com/news/florida/2025/06/19/this-florida-city-has-the-worst-bedbug-infestations-in-the-state-study-says/
[2] https://thewrangler.com/insect-invasion-6-florida-cities-combatting-bed-bug-onslaught/2025/06/17/
[3] https://patch.com/florida/southtampa/most-bed-bug-infested-cities-where-these-fl-towns-rank
[4] https://rtrlaw.com/personal-injury/is-there-a-bed-bug-problem-in-florida/
[5] https://www.hofferpest.com/blog/2025/march/florida-hotels-and-bed-bug-scandals/
