Washington State is facing a persistent bed bug problem, with several cities actively battling infestations as these resilient pests continue to spread in homes, apartments, hotels, and businesses.
While Washington cities do not top the national lists for worst infestations, the issue is significant and growing, prompting coordinated responses from public health officials, pest control professionals, and local governments.
Here are five Washington cities actively combatting bed bug onslaughts
| City | Recent Bed Bug Activity | Response Strategies |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle | Ranked #39 in Orkin’s 2025 Top 50 Bed Bug Cities list, up 5 spots from last year. | Aggressive professional extermination, public education, and city health department guidance. Seattle’s dense housing and high travel rates make it a hotspot. |
| Tacoma | Increasing reports in multi-unit housing and hotels. | Landlord obligations for pest control, tenant education, and rapid response protocols per state and local health regulations. |
| Spokane | Not nationally ranked, but local health agencies report rising cases. | Focus on early detection, tenant-landlord cooperation, and partnerships with pest control companies for targeted treatments. |
| Vancouver | Growing concern in apartment complexes and rental units. | City and county health departments offer resources and enforce landlord responsibilities for timely remediation. |
| Everett | Reports of infestations in both residential and commercial properties. | Community outreach, regular inspections, and professional pest management services. |
Why These Cities Stand Out
Seattle is the most prominent Washington city on national bed bug rankings, reflecting its urban density, transient population, and international travel connections. Local pest control companies report that both residential and commercial infestations are common, and professional intervention is usually required for effective elimination.
Tacoma, Spokane, Vancouver, and Everett may not appear on national top-50 lists, but local agencies confirm increasing infestations, especially in multi-family housing and hotels. These cities are investing in public education, enforcing landlord obligations, and supporting tenants in reporting and managing outbreaks.
Statewide and Local Responses
Landlord-Tenant Law: Washington state law requires landlords to address bed bug infestations before new tenants move in and to continue pest control efforts as needed.
Public Health Guidance: Local health departments provide detailed instructions on cleaning, clutter reduction, and preparation for professional treatment.
Professional Extermination: Experts stress that DIY methods are rarely sufficient. Integrated pest management, including heat treatments and targeted pesticides, is the standard for eradication.
Education and Outreach: City and county agencies distribute fact sheets and offer hotlines to help residents identify, report, and address bed bug problems.
Prevention Tips
Inspect hotel rooms and luggage during travel.
Reduce clutter and regularly clean living spaces.
Promptly report suspected infestations to landlords or property managers.
Use professional pest control services for confirmed cases.
Seattle leads Washington’s fight against bed bugs, but Tacoma, Spokane, Vancouver, and Everett are also on the front lines, deploying a mix of regulation, education, and professional intervention to contain the spread and protect residents.
Sources
[1] https://dch.wwcowa.gov/Bed%20Bugs.pdf
[2] https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/dph/health-safety/environmental-health/bed-bugs/cleaning-infestation
[3] https://www.westernexterminator.com/local-branches/washington/seattle/bed-bugs
[4] https://doh.wa.gov/community-and-environment/pests/bed-bugs
[5] https://www.pctonline.com/news/chicago-tops-orkins-2025-bed-bug-cities-list/
