Georgia is facing a significant bed bug problem, with several cities ranking among the most infested in the nation. The surge in bed bug cases is driven by factors such as high travel rates, dense populations, and the pests’ increasing resistance to conventional treatments. Here are five Georgia cities at the forefront of the battle against bed bugs:
1. Atlanta
Atlanta consistently ranks among the top 20 cities in the U.S. for bed bug infestations. In 2024, Atlanta climbed to No. 13 on Orkin’s list of the worst cities for bed bugs, moving up three spots from the previous year. The city’s status as a major travel hub-with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and over 42 million annual visitors-makes it especially vulnerable. Bed bugs are commonly reported in hotels, apartments, nursing homes, and even public buildings.
2. Sandy Springs
Sandy Springs is another hotspot, ranking 85th nationally for bed bug infestations. Its proximity to Atlanta and significant number of multi-unit residences contribute to the spread of bed bugs. Residents and pest control professionals report frequent cases, particularly in apartment complexes and hotels.
3. Savannah
Savannah, known for its tourism industry and historic buildings, is also grappling with bed bug outbreaks, ranking 145th in the nation. The city’s popularity with travelers increases the risk of bed bugs hitchhiking into homes and accommodations. Older structures with abundant hiding places further complicate eradication efforts.
4. Macon
Macon ranks 248th among the worst cities for bed bug infestations in the U.S.. Like other Georgia cities, Macon’s combination of dense housing and transient populations makes it susceptible. Local pest control companies have reported a steady rise in bed bug-related service calls.
5. Athens
Athens, home to the University of Georgia, faces unique challenges due to its large student population and frequent turnover in housing. Athens ranks 264th nationally for bed bug issues. In July 2024, a bed bug infestation was severe enough to shut down the Athens-Clarke County Courthouse, highlighting the scale of the problem and the need for coordinated public health responses.
Why Are Bed Bugs So Pervasive in Georgia?
- Travel and Tourism: High visitor numbers increase the risk of bed bugs spreading via luggage and personal belongings.
- Multi-Unit Housing: Apartments and hotels provide ideal environments for infestations to spread rapidly.
- Resistance to Treatments: Bed bugs are increasingly resistant to pesticides, making eradication more difficult.
- Public Awareness: Misconceptions about bed bugs and lack of knowledge about prevention contribute to ongoing outbreaks.
How Cities Are Responding
- Public Education: City health departments and pest control companies are ramping up educational campaigns on prevention and early detection.
- Professional Treatment: Authorities recommend involving licensed pest control professionals at the first sign of infestation.
- Building Inspections: Increased inspections of hotels, apartments, and public buildings aim to catch infestations early.
- Community Alerts: Public offices and facilities, like the Athens-Clarke County Courthouse, are taking swift action to close and treat affected areas.
Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Savannah, Macon, and Athens are among the Georgia cities hardest hit by bed bug infestations. With travel and dense housing fueling the spread, these cities are intensifying efforts to detect, treat, and prevent future outbreaks.
Sources
[1] https://www.lajaunies.com/blog/americas-most-bed-bug-infested-cities/
[2] https://www.trulynolen.com/pest-expert-tips/bed-bugs-in-atlanta-ga-a-historical-look-at-prevention
[3] https://www.lajaunies.com/americas-most-bed-bug-infested-cities/
[4] https://www.ecoguardpestmanagement.com/pest-resources/how-common-are-bed-bugs
[5] https://patch.com/georgia/atlanta/worst-ga-cities-bed-bug-infestations-plus-dc-report
