Bed bugs have reemerged as a growing problem in many parts of the United States, and Utah is no exception. In 2025, several Utah cities are grappling with a significant increase in bed bug infestations, affecting homes, hotels, and multi-unit housing.
These tiny pests have proven resilient and hard to eradicate, prompting city officials and residents to take action. Here’s an overview of the five Utah cities most impacted by bed bugs and the efforts underway to combat this insect invasion.
Understanding the Bed Bug Problem in Utah
Bed bugs are small reddish-brown insects about a quarter-inch long that feed on human blood, primarily at night. While they do not spread infectious diseases, their bites cause itching, discomfort, and sleepless nights. Infestations can be costly and difficult to eliminate, often requiring professional pest control interventions.
Experts believe the recent surge in bed bugs is tied to their growing resistance to pesticides, increased domestic and international travel, and a lack of awareness about prevention and control.
Salt Lake City
As Utah’s largest city and a major travel hub, Salt Lake City faces the highest volume of bed bug reports. The influx of tourists and residents moving through hotels and public transportation facilitates the spread of bed bugs across neighborhoods.
City health officials have launched public education campaigns focusing on identification, prevention strategies, and encouraging early inspections, especially in rental properties and hospitality venues.
Provo
Provo, home to Brigham Young University and a dense student population, has seen rising infestations in apartment complexes and dormitories. Close living quarters and high occupant turnover make controlling bed bugs challenging.
University housing administrators have partnered with pest professionals to conduct routine inspections and swift treatment plans when cases are detected, helping minimize spread within campus environments.
Ogden
Ogden’s thriving tourism industry, with ski resorts and outdoor attractions nearby, contributes to bed bug challenges. Visitors frequently unintentionally transport bed bugs in luggage and clothing.
Local government supports hospitality businesses through resources on pest control best practices and encourages reporting suspected infestations to reduce long-term impacts.
St. George
As a popular retirement and vacation destination in southern Utah, St. George deals with bed bug cases in multi-family residences and vacation rentals. The diverse population and shared accommodations increase exposure risk.
Property managers are increasingly conscientious about regular pest monitoring, and community workshops have been organized to raise awareness among residents and landlords.
West Valley City
Located near Salt Lake City, West Valley City experiences particularly high rates of bed bug infestations in low-income housing. Limited resources and high population density complicate eradication efforts.
Nonprofit organizations work with affected communities to provide access to pest control services and educate residents on prevention techniques like reducing clutter and early detection.
Strategies for Fighting the Bed Bug Onslaught
Across Utah, the fight against bed bugs relies on a coordinated approach involving:
Public Education: Informing citizens about recognizing signs of infestation and avoiding introduction of pests through travel and secondhand goods.
Professional Extermination: Encouraging early engagement of pest control experts who use heat treatments, chemical methods, and bed bug-sniffing dogs.
Legislation and Housing Policies: Some cities consider or enforce regulations requiring landlords to address infestations promptly to protect tenants.
Community Support: Nonprofits and local agencies help vulnerable populations access treatments and reduce infestation recurrence.
The bed bug resurgence in Utah highlights the resilience of these pests and the importance of vigilance, coordinated response, and informed citizens. Salt Lake City, Provo, Ogden, St. George, and West Valley City are at the forefront of battling this insect invasion in 2025.
With ongoing education, treatment innovations, and community collaboration, Utah aims to curb the spread and impact of bed bugs to protect residents’ health and comfort.
Sources
(https://www.instagram.com/p/DM0oXa_RFzM/)
(https://epi.utah.gov/bed-bugs/)
(https://www.orkin.com/press-room/worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-annual-rankings)
(https://www.myfsps.com/bed-bugs/the-50-most-bed-bug-infested-cities-in-america/)
(https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/articles/2023-11-01/u-s-cities-with-the-worst-bedbugs)
