Chicago’s Latest Award: Bed Bug Capital Of America

Illinoisans have known for years that Chicago has an over-supply of vermin and pests, although the majority of us probably thought most of them were elected officials.

Not that we're wrong in thinking that, but for today's discussion, we'll limit it to the blood-suckers of the six-legged variety. In particular, the dreaded bed bug.

According to a new release from pest-control company Orkin, Chicago picks up the blue ribbon for being the most bed bug infested American city.

It's been a rough couple of weeks for Chicago, with the city picking up the top prize for two things that no city wants to brag about. A week or so back, Orkin also named Chicago as the most rat-infested city in the country, now the first week of February brings them this dubious accolade.

If you're wondering if the folks at Orkin have some sort of grudge against Chicago, the answer would appear to be no. Orkin is going by the numbers with their list of rankings, basing their conclusions on

"treatment data from the metro areas where Orkin performed the most bed bug treatments from December 1, 2019 – November 30, 2020. The ranking includes both residential and commercial treatments."

Although you can find these apple seed sized bugs anywhere, Orkin says these are the top five cities with the most plentiful bed bug populations:

Chicago
Baltimore
Washington, DC
Detroit
Columbus, OH

When I say you can find them anywhere, I do mean anywhere. The National Pest Management Association says that one in five homes in the U.S. have dealt with a bed bug problem or know someone who has.

Okay, so Chicago currently holds the title for both rats and bed bugs. Is it spiders next for the trifecta?