Ohio has emerged as a national hotspot for bed bug infestations, with several of its major cities consistently ranking among the most affected in the United States. According to the latest 2025 data from Terminix and other pest control studies, the state is grappling with a persistent surge in bed bug activity, fueled by increased travel, dense urban housing, and resilient insect populations.
Top 5 Ohio Cities Battling Bed Bugs
1. Cleveland-Akron
Cleveland-Akron is the hardest-hit region in Ohio, ranking as the third most bed bug-infested metro area in the country for 2025. The city’s dense housing, frequent travel, and high population mobility have made it especially vulnerable to recurring infestations.
2. Columbus
Columbus is another major battleground, consistently landing in the top 15 nationally. The city’s large rental market and active travel scene contribute to its ongoing struggles with bed bugs.
3. Dayton
Dayton has also seen a sharp rise in bed bug cases, placing just outside the national top 10. Local health officials have noted that infestations are widespread across neighborhoods, affecting both single-family homes and apartment complexes.
4. Cincinnati
Cincinnati remains a perennial entry on national bed bug lists. The city’s older housing stock and status as a travel hub make it a prime target for these persistent pests.
5. Toledo
Toledo, while not as severely impacted as the other four, still ranks among the top 50 most infested cities in the United States. The city continues to report steady numbers of bed bug complaints and treatments each year.
Why the Surge?
Experts point to several factors driving Ohio’s bed bug crisis:
- Increased post-pandemic travel and social gatherings, creating more opportunities for bed bugs to hitchhike into homes and hotels.
- Urban density and aging housing, which provide ample hiding spots and make eradication more difficult.
- Growing resistance to common insecticides, making professional intervention essential for control.
Prevention and Response
To combat the onslaught, Ohio cities have ramped up public education, inspection programs, and partnerships with pest control professionals. Residents are urged to inspect hotel rooms and secondhand furniture, avoid placing luggage on beds or floors, and use high-heat drying to kill potential hitchhikers after travel. Local health departments, such as those in Columbus and Cleveland, offer resources and guidance for those facing infestations.
The Bottom Line
Cleveland-Akron, Columbus, Dayton, Cincinnati, and Toledo are on the front lines of Ohio’s bed bug battle. As infestations continue to rise, vigilance, early detection, and professional treatment remain the best defenses against these stubborn invaders.
Sources
[1] https://www.livenowfox.com/news/cities-have-most-bed-bugs-according-annual-study
[2] https://abc6onyourside.com/news/local/top-50-most-bed-bug-infested-us-cities-revealed-dayton-colbums-cincinnati-cleveland-ohio-pest-control-pests-post-covid19-covid-19-pandemic-new-normal-travel-social-gatherings-public-activity-spread-awareness-professional-services-extermination
[3] https://spectrumlocalnews.com/articles/news/news/2025/06/11/ohio-cities-rank-high-for-teminix-top-50-bed-bug-infested-cities-list
[4] https://www.terminix.com/blog/whats-buzzing/top-bed-bug-cities/
[5] https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/ent-0103
