Texas is in the midst of a bed bug resurgence, with several major cities ranking among the worst in the nation for infestations. The combination of a warm climate, high urban density, and bustling travel and hospitality industries has made the state especially vulnerable to these persistent pests.
The Top Five Texas Cities Battling Bed Bugs
Based on recent national rankings and pest control data, the following Texas cities are facing the most significant bed bug challenges:
- Houston
- Houston consistently ranks as one of the worst cities for bed bug infestations in the U.S. According to a 2024 Pest Gnome study, Houston is the third worst city nationwide for bed bug risk, driven by its high number of used furniture stores and temporary lodgings. Orkin’s 2024 report also places Houston at #38 nationally, up six spots from the previous year. The city has seen local crises, such as the infestation at Simmons Gardens Apartments, which prompted intervention by the Houston Health Department and City Council.
- Dallas
- Dallas is another hotspot, ranking 11th in the nation for bed bug risk according to Pest Gnome, and #22 on Orkin’s 2024 list, though it dropped five spots from the previous year. The Dallas-Fort Worth metro area is frequently cited in national pest control reports due to its size and population density.
- San Antonio
- San Antonio is not far behind, ranking #16 nationally for bed bug infestation risk in 2024. Its large hospitality sector and urban sprawl contribute to the problem.
- Fort Worth
- Often grouped with Dallas, Fort Worth appears separately in some rankings, coming in at #37 in the U.S. for infestation risk. Its proximity to Dallas and shared metropolitan infrastructure make it similarly vulnerable.
- Irving
- Irving rounds out the top five, ranking #54 nationally for bed bug risk. As a major hub in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, it faces many of the same challenges as its larger neighbors.
Why Are Bed Bugs Thriving in Texas?
- Warm, Humid Climate: Bed bugs thrive in Texas’s climate, which allows them to reproduce and spread year-round.
- Travel and Urban Density: High rates of travel, numerous hotels, and dense urban populations increase the likelihood of bed bugs hitching rides and finding new hosts.
- Used Furniture Market: Cities like Houston have a high concentration of used furniture stores, which can be a major vector for bed bug spread.
Public Health and Economic Impact
Bed bug infestations cause more than just discomfort. They can lead to:
- Itchy, painful bites and potential allergic reactions
- Anxiety, insomnia, and emotional distress for residents
- Significant financial costs for extermination, replacement of infested items, and lost business for hotels and landlords
Community Response and Prevention
Cities are responding with increased pest control efforts, public awareness campaigns, and, in some cases, direct intervention by local health departments and city councils4. Experts recommend regular inspections, especially when traveling or purchasing used furniture, and immediate action at the first sign of infestation.
Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Fort Worth, and Irving are the five Texas cities most impacted by the current bed bug epidemic. The issue is fueled by climate, travel, and urban factors, prompting both public health action and calls for greater community vigilance
Sources
- https://www.iheart.com/content/2024-01-25-two-texas-cities-land-on-list-of-cities-with-the-most-bed-bugs/
- https://kfyo.com/infested-this-texas-city-is-crawling-with-bed-bugs/
- https://myb106.com/texas-bed-bugs-2024/
- https://www.fox26houston.com/news/residents-are-being-bitten-and-are-afraid-to-get-in-their-own-beds-as-they-battle-a-bed-bug-infestation
- https://www.mypmp.net/2025/01/30/terminix-report-indicates-top-50-cities-for-commercial-pest-infestations/