Full Breakdown
Casino.ca Report Identifies Top U.S. Bedbug Hotspots for Summer Travelers
6/28/2026, 1:39:22 AM
Ranking Highlights Highest-Risk States and Cities
Casino.ca’s latest travel-risk analysis ranks U.S. states and cities by the probability that a traveler will encounter bedbugs. Michigan leads with an estimated 1-in-57 chance of a bedbug sighting, and Warren, Michigan is identified as most vulnerable city. Ohio, Maryland, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin follow as next highest-risk states, while Hawaii and Oregon rank lowest. North Las Vegas, Nevada and Madison, Wisconsin are second- and third-ranked cities after Warren.
Methodology and Key Findings
The ranking merges the latest Orkin and Terminix “Top 50” bedbug lists with TripAdvisor reviews from the three largest cities in each state. It also incorporates low-rated hotel reviews that mention bedbugs, treatment records from pest-control firms, and social-media posts. Travel + Leisure later cited the same data but reported Warren’s odds as 1-in-59, a minor inconsistency. The EPA notes bedbugs do not transmit disease but can cause itchy bites and anxiety.
Experts and Commentary
Zachary DeVries, associate professor of urban entomology at the University of Kentucky, says bedbugs thrive wherever people sleep and urges travelers to inspect seams, headboards and nearby furniture. Dini Miller, professor of urban pest management at Virginia Tech, notes that media attention spikes during events such as Paris Fashion Week and the World Cup, which can amplify reports from places like Warren. Both experts stress that hotels monitor for bedbugs to avoid a “Bed Bug Registry” and recommend laundering linens on high heat.
Limitations and Data Gaps
DeVries cautions that the list reflects areas where large pest-control firms have a stronger presence, so it may not capture the true nationwide distribution. Emphasizing urban hotspots can obscure infestations in suburban and rural settings, where professional extermination is less accessible. The methodology also omits private-home reports, leaving a gap in overall community risk assessment.
Selected Direct Quotes
- “Bedbugs live in close proximity to humans or animals and like to be where we sleep or rest – beds, couches, nearby furniture, etc.” — Zachary DeVries, University of Kentucky
- “Bedbugs are a part of life now.” — Zachary DeVries, University of Kentucky
- “Hotels are much more conscientious about looking for bedbugs because they don't want to end up on the Bed Bug Registry.” — Dini Miller, Virginia Tech University
- “You wouldn't believe how many different media companies got ahold of me when it was Paris Fashion Week.” — Dini Miller, Virginia Tech University
Travel Guidance
Travelers should quickly check seams, headboards and adjacent furniture, use sticky rollers on clothing, and launder items on high heat for at least 30 minutes. A single bug rarely leads to an infestation, but multiple bugs may require professional extermination. The updated rankings aim to help guests and hospitality providers stay vigilant during the summer travel season.
