Florida’s warm climate, booming tourism, and dense urban centers have made it a hotspot for bed bug infestations. In recent years, several cities have seen a surge in reports, prompting aggressive action from local authorities, pest control professionals, and public health agencies. Here are five Florida cities at the forefront of the fight against bed bugs:
1. Orlando
Orlando consistently ranks as Florida’s top city for bed bug activity, largely due to its status as a global tourist destination with attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. The city’s high hotel occupancy and constant influx of visitors create ideal conditions for bed bugs to spread. Local pest control companies report frequent calls from hotels, vacation rentals, and apartment complexes, and public health officials have ramped up inspections and educational campaigns to help residents and businesses identify and address infestations quickly.
2. Tampa
Tampa has seen a dramatic rise in bed bug cases, jumping 10 spots to No. 31 on Orkin’s 2024 Top 50 Bed Bug Cities list. The city’s popularity as a tourist and business hub, along with its proximity to other high-traffic areas like Clearwater and St. Petersburg, has contributed to the problem. Tampa’s public health departments receive thousands of complaints annually, leading to increased pest control measures and stricter guidelines for hotels and rental properties.
3. Miami
Miami, another major tourist magnet, is frequently listed among the U.S. cities most affected by bed bugs. In 2024, Miami ranked 22nd overall in a national study, while nearby Miami Beach was also highlighted for high infestation rates. The city’s international airport and busy hospitality sector make it especially vulnerable, and local authorities have responded with more rigorous inspections and public awareness campaigns.
4. Fort Myers
Fort Myers is a top destination for both tourists and seasonal residents, and it has become a hotspot for bed bug activity. The city’s hotels, resorts, and short-term rentals are frequent sites of infestations, and the area’s popularity for events and festivals increases the risk of bed bugs hitching rides in luggage and clothing. Pest control experts in Fort Myers are in high demand, and the city has launched initiatives to educate the public on prevention and early detection.
5. Cape Canaveral
Cape Canaveral, home to one of the world’s largest cruise ports and the Kennedy Space Center, faces unique challenges due to the constant flow of international travelers. The reemergence of the tropical bed bug, a particularly fast-spreading species, has been linked to cruise ship traffic. Local pest control professionals and city officials are working together to monitor hotels, cruise terminals, and public spaces, aiming to contain outbreaks before they spread further.
Why These Cities?
Florida’s year-round tourism, warm and humid climate, and urban density create perfect conditions for bed bugs to thrive and spread. Cities with major airports, cruise ports, and high hotel occupancy rates are especially at risk, as bed bugs travel easily in luggage and personal belongings.
How Cities Are Responding
- Increased inspections of hotels, rentals, and public accommodations
- Public education campaigns on prevention and detection
- Stricter guidelines for property owners and managers
- Rapid response teams for reported infestations
Orlando, Tampa, Miami, Fort Myers, and Cape Canaveral are leading the fight against Florida’s bed bug surge. Their experiences highlight the importance of vigilance, public awareness, and swift action in combating these persistent pests.
Sources
- https://rtrlaw.com/personal-injury/is-there-a-bed-bug-problem-in-florida/
- https://patch.com/florida/southtampa/top-bed-bug-cities-3-fl-cities-among-worst-u-s-bed-bugs
- https://patch.com/florida/miami/worst-fl-cities-bed-bug-infestations-report
- https://www.jcehrlich.com/blog/bed-bugs/top-5-florida-cities-for-bed-bug-activity
- https://news.terminix.com/press-releases/press-release-details/2025/The-Bed-Bug-Boom-Terminix-Reveals-Top-50-Infested-U-S–Cities/default.aspx
