Insect Invasion: 5 Georgia Cities Combatting Bed Bug Onslaught

Posted by James April 29, 2025
Insect Invasion 5 Georgia Cities Combatting Bed Bug Onslaught

Bed bugs are surging across the United States, and Georgia is no exception. With increased travel, urban density, and resistance to pesticides, several Georgia cities are facing significant bed bug challenges in 2025. Here are five cities leading the fight against these persistent pests:

1. Atlanta

  • Status: Atlanta consistently ranks among the top 20 most bed bug-infested cities in the U.S., and is the worst in Georgia. It was ranked No. 13 nationally in Orkin’s latest report, climbing three spots from the previous year.
  • Why the Problem: As a major travel and business hub, Atlanta’s hotels, apartments, and public spaces see high traffic, providing ample opportunities for bed bugs to spread.
  • Response: Increased public awareness campaigns, routine inspections in hospitality sectors, and rapid-response pest control initiatives are in effect.

2. Sandy Springs

  • Status: Ranked 85th nationally for bed bug infestations, Sandy Springs is the second most affected city in Georgia.
  • Why the Problem: Proximity to Atlanta and a growing population contribute to the spread.
  • Response: Local authorities are working with pest control companies to educate residents and property managers about prevention and early detection.

3. Savannah

  • Status: Savannah comes in at 145th nationally, with its historic buildings and vibrant tourism industry contributing to ongoing infestations.
  • Why the Problem: Older structures provide more hiding spots for bed bugs, and the city’s popularity with tourists increases risk.
  • Response: The city is focusing on inspections in hotels and short-term rentals, and offering resources for residents on recognizing and reporting infestations.

4. Macon

  • Status: Ranked 248th in the nation, Macon is another Georgia city grappling with bed bug issues.
  • Why the Problem: Like other cities, Macon’s mix of older housing stock and transient populations (such as college students) creates vulnerability.
  • Response: Community outreach and support for low-income residents to access pest control services are being expanded.

5. Athens

  • Status: Athens ranks 264th nationally, but recently made headlines when a bed bug infestation forced the closure of the Athens-Clarke County Courthouse, disrupting judicial operations for days.
  • Why the Problem: High visitor traffic in public buildings and a large student population at the University of Georgia increase exposure risks.
  • Response: Public facilities are undergoing comprehensive pest treatments, and officials are reviewing protocols for early detection and containment.

Other Georgia Cities Facing Bed Bug Challenges

Additional cities noted for bed bug problems include South Fulton, Johns Creek, Columbus, Warner Robins, and Roswell, all of which appear on national rankings for infestations.

Why Bed Bugs Are Spreading

  • Travel and Tourism: High volumes of visitors increase the risk of bed bugs hitchhiking into homes and hotels.
  • Resistance: Bed bugs are becoming more resistant to traditional pesticides, making eradication harder.
  • Lack of Awareness: Many residents are unaware of how to spot or prevent infestations, leading to delayed responses and wider spread.

How Cities Are Responding

  • Public Education: Campaigns to help residents recognize early signs of infestation.
  • Targeted Inspections: Focus on hotels, apartments, and public buildings.
  • Rapid Response: Quick closure and treatment of infested public facilities, as seen in Athens.
  • Support Services: Assistance for vulnerable populations to access pest control.
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Atlanta, Sandy Springs, Savannah, Macon, and Athens are among the Georgia cities most actively battling bed bug invasions in 2025. With ongoing public health efforts and increased vigilance, these cities aim to curb the spread and impact of these tenacious pests

Sources

  1. https://www.lajaunies.com/blog/americas-most-bed-bug-infested-cities/
  2. https://www.newsweek.com/bed-bug-infestation-georgia-court-insects-1928985
  3. https://v1017.iheart.com/content/2024-01-25-georgia-city-named-among-the-worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-in-the-us/
  4. https://patch.com/georgia/atlanta/worst-ga-cities-bed-bug-infestations-plus-dc-report
  5. https://www.iheart.com/content/2024-01-25-georgia-city-named-among-the-worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-in-the-us/