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These Cities In America Are Scorpion Hot Spots

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Author Josie Messeter

Close-up of a scorpion, showing its pincers and segmented tail with stinger
Scorpion. Image by asbjhb via Depositphotos

Scorpions are fascinating creatures, but they can also be a bit (or extremely) unsettling, especially if you find them in your home. Certain cities in the U.S. provide an especially favourable environment for these creepy arachnids and are known as scorpion hot spots.

#1 Phoenix, Arizona

The Arizona Bark Scorpion
The Arizona Bark Scorpion. By Andrew Meeds – https://www.inaturalist.org/photos/186847118, CC BY 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=119942919

Phoenix is a well-known scorpion hot-spot. The hot, dry climate of Phoenix is perfect for scorpions, particularly the Arizona Bark Scorpion. Reports estimate around 12,000 scorpion stings annually in Arizona, with a significant number happening in Phoenix.

#2 Tucson, Arizona

scorpion
Image via Unsplash

Tucson, another city in Arizona, also sees a high number of scorpions. The desert environment around Tucson is ideal for scorpions. Homeowners are advised to check dark, cool places in their homes, as these are common hiding spots for scorpions.

#3 Las Vegas, Nevada

A giant desert hairy scorpion in its favorite habitat - the desert.
A giant desert hairy scorpion in its favorite habitat – the desert. By Arches National Park – Giant Desert Hairy ScorpionUploaded by AlbertHerring, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=29670158

Las Vegas might be famous for its nightlife, but it’s also a hot-spot for scorpions. The Las Vegas Valley is home to several scorpion species, including the Desert Hairy Scorpion. Local pest control companies report frequent calls about scorpion sightings, especially during the hot summer months.

#4 San Antonio, Texas

The striped bark scorpion is famous for letting their babies ride on their backs for the first three weeks of their lives.
The striped bark scorpion is famous for letting their babies ride on their backs for the first three weeks of their lives. By Insects Unlocked from USA – Striped Bark Scorpion (Buthidae, Centruroides vittatus (Say)), CC0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=64069324

San Antonio’s warm climate and dry areas make it another prime location for scorpions. The Striped Bark Scorpion is common here. Residents often encounter these creatures in their gardens and sometimes indoors, leading to numerous calls to pest control services.

#5 El Paso, Texas

scorpion
Image via Unsplash

El Paso experiences high temperatures and low rainfall, creating a suitable habitat for scorpions. The Chihuahuan Desert surrounding El Paso is home to many scorpions, and residents need to be vigilant, especially in the warmer months when scorpions are most active.

#6 Albuquerque, New Mexico

Image of giant desert hairy scorpion on the ground.
Image of giant desert hairy scorpion on the ground. Image via Depositphotos

Albuquerque’s desert climate supports a variety of scorpions. The Giant Desert Hairy Scorpion is one of the largest species found here. Sightings are common in residential areas, and locals often find them in garages and basements, where it’s cooler and darker.

#7 Palm Springs, California

The california common scorpion.
The california common scorpion. By Nicholas Wei – https://www.inaturalist.org/photos/156967797, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=127506989

Palm Springs’ hot, dry desert environment is perfect for scorpions. The California Common Scorpion is frequently found in this area. Residents should be cautious during the summer as scorpions tend to be more active and may enter homes seeking cooler temperatures.

#8 Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

A scorpion with imposing claws and stinger.
A scorpion with imposing claws and stinger. Image via Pixabay

Oklahoma City’s varying climate still supports a significant scorpion population. The Striped Bark Scorpion is prevalent here, especially in suburban areas. Locals are advised to check shoes, bedding, and other dark places where scorpions might hide.

#9 Las Cruces, New Mexico

Typically. scorpions with bigger claws are less dangerous - but I would still stay far away either way.
Typically. scorpions with bigger claws are less dangerous – but I would still stay far away either way. Image via Pixabay

Las Cruces, located in the Mesilla Valley, is another scorpion-prone area. The warm climate and proximity to the desert make it ideal for scorpions. Residents often encounter scorpions in their yards and sometimes indoors, particularly during the hot summer months.

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