Bed bugs are making a formidable comeback across the United States, and Georgia is no exception. With travel and population density on the rise, several cities in the Peach State are facing persistent and costly infestations. Here’s a closer look at five Georgia cities on the frontlines of the bed bug battle—and the strategies they’re using to fight back.
1. Atlanta: The Epicenter of Georgia’s Bed Bug Crisis
Atlanta consistently ranks among the top 10 most bed bug-infested cities in the nation, coming in at No. 6 in recent national surveys. The city’s status as a major travel hub and its dense housing make it a prime target for these elusive pests.
Atlanta’s response has been robust, with increased public awareness campaigns, partnerships with pest control companies, and community workshops on prevention and detection. Heat treatments and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies are widely promoted, combining chemical, mechanical, and educational approaches for long-term control.
2. Sandy Springs: Suburban Vigilance
Sandy Springs, situated just north of Atlanta, is another hotspot, ranking 85th nationwide for bed bug infestations. The city’s multifamily residences and transient populations contribute to the problem.
Local health officials have ramped up inspections and provided residents with resources on early detection, such as identifying telltale stains, shed skins, and live bugs. Property managers are increasingly required to implement routine inspections and rapid response protocols to contain outbreaks.
3. Savannah: Southern Hospitality Meets Stubborn Pests
Savannah, known for its historic charm, also faces a modern pest challenge, ranking 145th for bed bug infestations in the U.S. The city’s popularity with tourists and its abundance of hotels and rental properties create ideal conditions for bed bugs to spread.
Savannah’s approach includes collaboration with local pest control experts and educational outreach to hotel owners and landlords, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and prompt professional treatments.
4. Macon: Community Action and Education
Macon, ranked 248th nationally, is taking a proactive stance against bed bugs. The city has launched community initiatives, including workshops and informational drives, to educate residents about prevention and early intervention. Local authorities encourage reporting suspected infestations promptly and offer guidance on DIY control methods, such as vacuuming, steam cleaning, and mattress encasements, while stressing the importance of seeking professional help for larger outbreaks.
5. Athens: University Town Takes Preventative Measures
Athens, home to the University of Georgia, ranks 264th for bed bug problems. The city’s large student population and frequent turnover in dorms and apartments make it especially vulnerable. University officials and local health departments have implemented strict protocols for inspecting student housing, educating students and landlords on prevention, and providing quick access to pest control services.
How Georgia Cities Are Fighting Back
Across these cities, several common strategies are making a difference:
Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Combining heat treatments, targeted chemical applications, and ongoing monitoring for sustainable bed bug control.
Public Education: Workshops, online resources, and community outreach to help residents spot early signs and avoid spreading infestations.
Professional Partnerships: Collaborating with licensed pest control companies for effective, safe treatments and ongoing prevention.
Policy Initiatives: Some cities are considering or have implemented regulations requiring landlords to address infestations promptly and provide tenants with bed bug prevention guidelines.
As Georgia’s cities continue to battle the bed bug onslaught, vigilance, education, and community cooperation remain the most effective weapons in this ongoing fight.
Sources
[1] https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/atlanta-named-6th-worst-us-city-bed-bugs-2025-terminix-survey-finds
[2] https://secretatlanta.co/bed-bugs-in-atlanta/
[3] https://patch.com/georgia/atlanta/where-atlanta-ranks-among-most-bed-bug-infested-cities
[4] https://www.atlantabedbugheaters.com/blogs/blog/1362460-bed-bug-control-in-atlanta-common-myths-and-real-solutions
[5] https://www.atlantabedbugheaters.com/blogs/blog/1362455-investigating-bed-bug-control-methods-a-guide-for-georgia-homeowners
