Nevada, famed for its vibrant cities and tourism, is fighting a growing battle against bed bug infestations in 2025. Thanks to booming travel, multi-family housing, and year-round warm, indoor climates, these biting pests are thriving—not just in hotels, but homes, apartments, and public spaces. Here’s a look at five Nevada cities on the frontlines, with details on how each is facing the bed bug challenge.
1. Las Vegas
Las Vegas tops Nevada’s bed bug concerns, regularly ranking among the nation’s most affected cities. The city’s never-ending stream of visitors creates constant opportunities for bed bugs to hitch a ride in luggage, clothing, and on buses. Outbreaks have recently made headlines, including lawsuits against major Strip hotels after guests suffered severe reactions and property loss due to infestations. In response, Las Vegas hotels have increased inspections, implemented rigorous room-cleaning protocols, and partnered with local pest control firms to detect and treat infestations quickly. Guests are advised to inspect rooms and keep luggage elevated during their stay.
2. Reno
As Nevada’s second-largest city, Reno faces similar woes. With a robust hospitality industry and frequent tenant turnover in apartments and rentals, pest companies report persistent calls for bed bug treatments. The city has prioritized eco-friendly pest control strategies, advocating for mattress encasements, regular vacuuming, and professional, targeted treatments to contain outbreaks. Local authorities also encourage residents and businesses to request inspections after travel or if they notice warning signs like bites or bed bug stains.
3. Henderson
Just south of Las Vegas, Henderson has seen rising reports of bed bug activity in both residential neighborhoods and hotels. Its growing population and mix of housing types make it a prime target. Henderson’s approach focuses on community education, with public health groups disseminating prevention tips, running outreach programs at schools, and advising frequent travelers on how to avoid carrying bed bugs home. Licensed pest control teams offer both chemical and eco-friendly options, emphasizing early detection.
4. Sparks
Located near Reno, Sparks also contends with frequent infestations, particularly in dense apartment complexes. Local pest control services provide routine inspections, quick-response treatments, and tenant education campaigns. Multifamily property owners have been urged to institute regular monitoring and prompt reporting, as early intervention is key to containing outbreaks.
5. Carson City
Nevada’s capital, Carson City, rounds out the list. Though smaller than the others, it faces challenges with bed bugs in public housing, hotels, and healthcare facilities. The University of Nevada Cooperative Extension has led statewide workshops, teaching identification, prevention, and safest eradication methods for families, property managers, and business owners. These educational initiatives, plus increased coordination with pest control companies, help Carson City stay ahead of emerging outbreaks.
How Nevada is Responding
Across these cities, Nevada’s approach blends prevention, education, and professional intervention. Key strategies include:
Partnering with local pest companies for regular inspections and eco-friendly treatments.
Routine public outreach—teaching residents to spot and report early signs of infestation.
Encouraging hotels and apartment managers to implement prevention policies and address complaints promptly.
While bed bugs remain a challenging adversary due to their resistance and stealth, proactive measures and community collaboration offer the best hope for keeping Nevada’s cities comfortable and bug-free for residents and visitors alike.
Sources
[1] https://www.mentalfloss.com/geography/maps/cities-most-worried-about-bed-bugs
[2] https://www.orkin.com/press-room/worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-annual-rankings
[3] https://sunny1065.iheart.com/content/2024-01-25-nevada-city-lands-on-list-of-cities-with-the-most-bed-bugs/
[4] https://www.naturapc.com/understanding-and-preventing-bed-bug-infestations-in-nevada
[5] https://www.fox5atlanta.com/n
