Bed bugs can hide anywhere, but some U.S. cities are more prone to infestations. The first and second ranked cities when it comes to being the most bed bug infested cities are somewhat expected. However, in a strong third place we find a Texas city – which may take you by surprise.
This Texas City Surprising Rank
The Texas city that has a surprisingly high rank when it comes to bed bug infestations is Houston – it’s the perfect opportunity for the phrase “Houston, we’ve got a problem.”
Houston scored 62.55 overall, placing it third nationally for bed bug infestations. These points come from “Pest Gnome,” which recently ranked the 500 biggest cities in the U.S. according to their rate of bedbug infestation. To get this arbitrary amount of “bedbug points,” they considered various factors such as infestation risk, pest control, and urban density.
Factors Behind Houston’s High Rank
Of course, there’s no single answer to why Houston ranks so surprisingly high, but if we take into account that bedbugs love used furniture and spread the best through travelers – both huge driving factors.
Houston has 54 used furniture stores, the second highest in the U.S., and 881 temporary lodgings, the third highest. These factors contribute to its high bed bug risk, despite its relatively normal urban density ranking of 220.
Bed Bugs Thrive in Houston’s Climate
Houston’s warm and humid climate is ideal for bed bugs, which thrive in temperatures between 65° and 85°F. Although extreme heat can kill bed bugs, the city’s typical weather conditions are generally favorable for their survival and reproduction.
31,770 Google Searches About Bedbugs Per Month
In the past year, Houston residents conducted an average of 31,770 monthly Google searches for bed bug-related keywords. This high number indicates a significant level of concern and awareness about bed bugs among Houstonians.
Other Texas Cities Affected
Houston isn’t the only Texas city on the list. Dallas ranked 11th, San Antonio 16th, and Austin 17th. Fort Worth and Irving also made the list, ranking 37th and 54th respectively. Fortunately, other Texas cities were outside the top 100, a small win in the fight against bed bugs.
The First and Second Ranked Cities On the List
The top two cities for bed bug infestations are far less surprising than Houston: New York City and Los Angeles.
New York, known for its dense population and bustling travel hubs, ranks first. Los Angeles follows closely, with similar factors contributing to its high ranking. These cities face significant challenges in controlling bed bug populations, and realistically the problem will probably never be truly resolved in cities as big as those.
How Bed Bugs Spread
Bed bugs often hitch a ride into homes via clothes, bedding, furniture, and luggage. Their flat bodies and ability to survive without food for long periods make them adept at hiding and emerging later, sometimes months after initial contact.
Signs of a Bed Bug Bite
Bed bug bites can be tricky to detect initially and can often be confused for another type of bite. They release an anesthetic when they bite, so you may not feel it right away. Look for mosquito-like bite marks that may be swollen and red, itch, and appear in random or straight-line patterns.
Should I Be Worried About Bedbugs?
Yes, bed bugs are a growing concern due to their resilience and rapid reproduction. Other than causing discomfort and allergic reactions it can also become quite costly to get rid of this nuisance.
Being aware of their hiding spots and signs of infestation can help you take preventative measures and seek timely pest control if needed. Remember to keep an especially watchful eye if you’re travelling or buying used furniture as these are the most common way that they spread.
The Third Most Bed Bug Infested City in the U.S: Conclusion
Bed bugs are a nasty nuisance, and you will want to do everything in your power to keep them out of your home and out of your life. As with most problems, the best way to keep it at bay is preventative measures. So, next time you visit any of these highly-ranked cities – keep an eye out.
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