Texas faces significant bed bug challenges, with several cities ranking among the most infested in the U.S. due to factors like tourism, population density, and warm climates. Here are the top Texas cities combating bed bug outbreaks in 2025:
Top Texas Cities Facing Bed Bug Challenges
1. Dallas
Ranked 5th nationally in 2025, Dallas remains a hotspot due to its status as a major business and tourism hub. The city’s dense urban environment and frequent traveler turnover contribute to persistent infestations.
2. Houston
Houston held the 3rd-worst national ranking in 2024, driven by its large population (2.3 million) and high number of accommodations. While slightly improved in 2025, it remains a top Texas city for infestations.
3. San Antonio
Ranked 16th nationally in 2024, San Antonio struggles with bed bugs linked to its thriving tourism industry and older housing stock, which provides ample hiding spots.
4. Austin
Ranked 17th nationally in 2024, Austin’s growing population and transient student demographics make it vulnerable to bed bug spread.
5. Fort Worth
Fort Worth ranked 37th nationally in 2024, with infestations often tied to its proximity to Dallas and shared travel networks.
Contributing Factors
- Travel and Tourism: Cities like Dallas and Houston attract millions of visitors annually, increasing the risk of bed bugs hitchhiking via luggage.
- Urban Density: High-rise apartments and densely packed neighborhoods facilitate rapid infestations.
- Climate: Texas’ warm temperatures allow bed bugs to thrive year-round.
Prevention Strategies
1. SLEEP Method for Travelers
- Survey hotel rooms for stains or bugs.
- Lift and inspect mattresses, furniture, and baseboards.
- Elevate luggage on racks away from walls.
- Examine belongings before repacking.
- Place clothes in a dryer on high heat after trips.
2. Home Protection
- Use mattress encasements and declutter living spaces.
- Vacuum regularly and inspect secondhand furniture.
- Engage professional pest control for heat treatments or desiccant dusts (e.g., silica aerogel).
3. Public Awareness
Cities like Houston and San Antonio emphasize education campaigns to help residents identify early signs (e.g., rust-colored stains, itchy bites) and report infestations promptly.
Bed bug control remains a priority in Texas, with cities adopting integrated pest management (IPM) strategies combining heat, vacuuming, and targeted pesticides. Vigilance during travel and proactive home inspections are critical to curbing their spread.
Sources:
- https://thebullamarillo.com/bed-bug-infested-cities-texas/
- https://mykiss1031.com/texas-city-tops-the-list-for-bed-bug-infestations-in-the-state/
- https://www.orkin.com/press-room/2024-worst-cities-for-bed-bugs
- https://knue.com/texas-cities-most-bed-bugs/
- https://www.altapestcontrol.com/blog/main-cause-of-bed-bugs-san-antonio
