Bed bugs are a growing problem in many parts of the United States, and Arizona is no exception. These tiny, blood-sucking pests have become a major nuisance in several cities across the state. With the rise in infestations, cities are ramping up their efforts to combat bed bugs and prevent them from spreading further. Here’s a look at five Arizona cities currently fighting the bed bug onslaught and the steps they’re taking to control the issue.
1. Phoenix: The State’s Largest City Faces a Growing Problem
Phoenix, Arizona’s largest city, is no stranger to bed bug infestations. The city’s population growth, combined with the frequent movement of residents in and out of the area, has made it a hotspot for these pests. The city is taking proactive measures, including educating residents on how to spot an infestation early and providing resources on effective treatment methods. The Phoenix Environmental Services Department also partners with pest control experts to address the problem in public spaces like hotels, apartment complexes, and schools.
2. Tucson: A Hotspot for Bed Bugs in Southern Arizona
Tucson, located in southern Arizona, has also been dealing with an uptick in bed bug activity. The city’s warm climate and large number of tourist attractions make it a prime environment for these pests to thrive. Tucson has seen a rise in bed bugs in both homes and businesses, leading to a spike in calls to pest control services. The city’s health department provides residents with helpful tips, like inspecting secondhand furniture and being cautious when traveling, to prevent infestations. Local pest control companies are also offering specialized bed bug treatments, such as heat treatments and fumigation, to eliminate these resilient pests.
3. Mesa: A City Combating Bed Bugs Through Education
Mesa, a suburb of Phoenix, is another Arizona city facing a significant bed bug problem. As in other cities, bed bugs are often introduced through secondhand items, like furniture or clothing, which are common in Mesa’s many thrift stores and secondhand shops. To address the issue, Mesa has been working to educate the public about the importance of inspecting secondhand items and maintaining a clean living space. Local pest control companies are stepping up their efforts by providing information on preventive measures, as well as offering affordable and effective solutions for those already dealing with an infestation.
4. Glendale: Tackling Bed Bugs in Multi-Unit Housing
Glendale, a neighboring city to Phoenix, has been grappling with bed bug infestations, particularly in multi-unit housing complexes. These types of buildings provide an ideal environment for bed bugs to spread quickly from one unit to another. The city is focusing on working with landlords and property managers to ensure that infestations are handled promptly and professionally. In addition to working with pest control services, Glendale’s health department is providing educational resources to residents on how to identify, prevent, and treat bed bug infestations.
5. Scottsdale: Combating Bed Bugs in Hotels and Resorts
Scottsdale, known for its luxury resorts and tourism, has been dealing with bed bugs in its hospitality industry. Hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals are particularly vulnerable to infestations due to the high turnover of guests. In response, Scottsdale is focusing on preventing bed bug outbreaks in these establishments by requiring hotels to perform regular inspections and use integrated pest management techniques. The city’s tourism department is also working with local businesses to promote awareness about the importance of regular pest control treatments to keep guests safe and ensure a comfortable stay.
What Arizona Cities Are Doing to Combat Bed Bugs
Across Arizona, cities are stepping up their efforts to prevent and treat bed bug infestations. Some of the common strategies being used include:
Education and Awareness: Cities like Phoenix, Mesa, and Tucson are educating residents and businesses about bed bugs, how to spot an infestation early, and ways to prevent them.
Collaboration with Pest Control Companies: Local governments are partnering with pest control professionals to provide treatments and solutions for bed bug infestations in both residential and commercial properties.
Regular Inspections: In high-risk areas such as hotels and multi-unit housing, cities are encouraging or requiring regular inspections to identify bed bug activity early on.
Preventive Measures: Cities are advising residents to be cautious with secondhand furniture and to take steps like using protective mattress covers and vacuuming regularly to prevent bed bug infestations.
Bed bugs are a persistent problem in Arizona, affecting cities from Phoenix to Scottsdale. While these pests are tough to control, local governments are making strides in educating residents and businesses about prevention, providing pest control resources, and enforcing regulations to reduce the spread. As Arizona cities continue to combat the bed bug invasion, residents can play their part by staying informed and taking proactive steps to protect their homes and businesses from these unwelcome visitors.
SOURCES
[1] https://thewrangler.com/insect-invasion-5-arizona-cities-combatting-bed-bug-onslaught/2025/06/08/
[2] https://www.orkin.com/press-room/worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-annual-rankings
[3] https://krforadio.com/ixp/150/p/terminix-bed-big-infested-cities-2025/
[4] https://www.terminix.com/blog/whats-buzzing/top-bed-bug-cities/
[5] https://www.mypmp.net/arizona-infestation-has-thousands-of-bed-bugs/
