Bed bugs have silently but persistently become a major problem across North Dakota, infesting homes, hotels, and public spaces, triggering public health and pest control concerns. Several cities are leading the fight to manage and contain this growing bed bug crisis in 2025.
Fargo: The Most Infested City in North Dakota
Fargo tops the list as the most bed bug-infested city in North Dakota, ranking #59 nationwide for bed bug infestations according to a 2025 national study. The city has reported numerous infestations in both hotels and private residences, with at least 13 confirmed locations including motels such as Sunset Motel and Motel 6. The issue impacts residents and travelers alike, as bed bugs often hitch rides on luggage and clothing.
Bismarck: Fighting Bed Bugs Citywide
Bismarck, the state capital, also battles bed bug proliferation, ranking further down the national list at #302 but still facing plenty of challenges. Infestations have been reported in private homes and various lodging facilities, prompting increased awareness campaigns and pest control measures. Local health authorities urge residents to conduct regular inspections and engage professional exterminators when infestations occur.
Grand Forks: Battling Bed Bugs at Homes and Inns
Grand Forks has seen multiple bed bug cases reported at both private residences and commercial inns like the Quality Inn. Community outreach programs focus on educating the public on prevention techniques such as careful luggage inspection and early treatment to curb the spread.
Minot and Jamestown: Growing Concerns in Smaller Cities
Other notable cities like Minot and Jamestown are not exempt. Minot recorded infestations both in private homes and hotels such as Vegas Motel. Jamestown’s Days Inn also confirmed a bed bug presence, highlighting the statewide nature of the problem.
Combating the Bed Bug Problem
Bed bugs are nocturnal, tiny insects that feed on human blood, often leaving itchy, red welts. They are highly resistant, surviving months without feeding and hiding in mattresses, furniture cracks, and walls, making eradication difficult.
Cities combat infestations via:
Public education campaigns emphasizing early detection and prevention.
Encouraging thorough inspections when traveling or buying used furniture.
Prompt professional pest control treatments for infected locations.
Coordinated efforts between public health offices, pest control companies, and community groups.
Preventive Tips for Residents
Residents of these cities and beyond are advised to:
The bed bug onslaught is a pressing insect invasion across North Dakota, with Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks, Minot, and Jamestown at the forefront of this battle. Awareness, vigilance, and professional interventions form the backbone of efforts to reduce the impact of bed bugs on residents and travelers. While these insects pose no known disease risk, their bites and ability to multiply rapidly require communities to stay informed and proactive in 2025 and beyond.
Sources
(https://us1033.com/one-north-dakota-city-top-60-in-bed-bug-infestations-in-usa/)
(https://us1033.com/new-study-one-north-dakota-city-is-crawling-w-bed-bugs-in-2024/)
(https://keyzradio.com/these-north-dakota-towns-are-crawling-with-bed-bugs/)
(https://kxrb.com/ixp/505/p/new-study-shows-one-north-dakota-city-is-crawling-with-bed-bugs/)
(https://www.hhs.nd.gov/bed-bugs-factsheet)
