Bed bugs are making headlines across the United States, and Wisconsin is no exception. While these tiny, blood-sucking pests have been a long-standing nuisance, recent reports indicate a growing problem in several Wisconsin cities, with Milwaukee leading the charge in the fight against infestation.
Milwaukee: Wisconsin’s Bed Bug Epicenter
Milwaukee has recently been named one of the top U.S. cities struggling with bed bugs. According to a 2024 report by pest control company Orkin, Milwaukee jumped an alarming 15 spots to rank 25th in the nation for bed bug treatments, reflecting a significant rise in infestations over the past year.
Experts attribute this surge to increased travel and the ease with which bed bugs can hitch rides on luggage, clothing, and second-hand furniture. The city’s public health officials and pest control companies are urging residents to remain vigilant, especially when bringing used items into their homes.
Other Wisconsin Cities on Alert
While Milwaukee is the only Wisconsin city to crack the national top 50 for bed bug infestations, the problem is not isolated. Pest control professionals report that bed bug cases are on the rise in other urban centers across the state, including Madison, Green Bay, Kenosha, and Racine.
These cities, though not nationally ranked, have seen a noticeable uptick in calls for bed bug treatments and public complaints.
Community Response and Prevention
Wisconsin cities are stepping up their efforts to combat the bed bug onslaught. Local governments and health departments are increasing public awareness campaigns, offering guidelines for identifying and preventing infestations.
Residents are encouraged to inspect second-hand furniture and clothing thoroughly before bringing them home, regularly check bedding and furniture seams for signs of bed bugs, and reduce household clutter to make detection easier.
Pest control experts like Ben Hottel from Orkin emphasize that early detection is key. Bed bugs are nocturnal and adept at hiding in mattresses, sofas, and even electrical outlets. Once established, infestations can spread quickly, making prompt professional intervention critical.
The Broader Impact
The resurgence of bed bugs in Wisconsin cities is part of a larger trend seen across the country. High-profile outbreaks, such as those in Paris last year, have heightened awareness and prompted cities to take more proactive measures. In Wisconsin, the focus remains on education, early detection, and community cooperation to keep the problem from worsening.
Milwaukee stands at the forefront of Wisconsin’s battle against bed bugs, but other cities like Madison, Green Bay, Kenosha, and Racine are also on high alert. With increased vigilance, public education, and professional pest control, Wisconsin communities are working together to combat this persistent insect invasion and protect residents from the discomfort and disruption bed bugs bring
Sources
[1] https://collincountymagazine.com/2025/06/08/insect-invasion-5-wisconsin-cities-combatting-bed-bug-onslaught/
[2] https://wiba.iheart.com/content/2024-01-25-wisconsin-city-named-among-the-worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-in-the-us/
[3] https://b105country.com/terminix-bed-big-infested-cities-2025/
[4] https://b100quadcities.com/wisconsin-has-one-of-the-most-bed-bug-infested-cities-in-the-u-s/
[5] https://www.terminix.com/blog/whats-buzzing/top-bed-bug-cities/
