Insect Invasion: 5 Minnesota Cities Combatting Bed Bug Onslaught

Minnesota, long considered relatively safe from the worst bed bug outbreaks, is now contending with a notable uptick in bed bug infestations across several cities. Recent data from pest control companies and ranking studies have put the spotlight on multiple Minnesota communities as they battle this persistent pest.

Top 5 Minnesota Cities Facing Bed Bug Issues

Based on rankings from sources such as Pest Gnome and Orkin, as well as recent news and pest control service reports, the Minnesota cities most affected by bed bug infestations are:

1. Minneapolis – Ranked 40th in Orkin’s 2025 national list (up from 47th in 2024), Minneapolis stands as the state’s epicenter for infestations. Both residential and commercial properties have reported increased bed bug treatments, and the Minneapolis Health Department has responded with heightened public education and stricter protocols for property owners.
2. St. Paul – Minnesota’s capital saw itself listed among the state’s worst in Pest Gnome’s 2024 rankings, reflecting a combination of urban density, rental housing stock, and recent growth in reported cases. Residents are urged to inspect new and used furniture and monitor rental units closely.
3. Rochester – The city has local pest control agencies reporting a spike in bed bug removal services. Increased healthcare travel, mixed residential types, and travel hubs may all contribute to cases. Area hotels, in particular, have put proactive protocols in place to contain outbreaks.
4. Brooklyn Park – Located just northwest of Minneapolis, Brooklyn Park features in several studies as a city contending with significant infestations. Multiple-unit dwellings and proximity to major transportation corridors contribute to the problem, prompting aggressive outreach by local pest management companies.
5. Bloomington – This city, home to the Mall of America and a hub for hotels and hospitality, has dealt with increased reports both in private homes and commercial lodgings. Public health education efforts have ramped up, and quick-acting hotel managers often call in pest professionals at the first reported bite or sighting.

What Are Cities Doing to Fight Back?

1. Public Education and Outreach: Cities like Minneapolis and St. Paul have introduced public campaigns about early detection, safe removal of used furniture, and travel precautions.
2. Hotel and Housing Code Enforcement: Municipalities are increasing inspections in hotels and multi-unit buildings, requiring swift action from property managers when infestations are detected.
3. Professional Pest Management: Reliance on licensed, proactive pest control companies is rising, with more widespread use of heat treatments, steam, and expert application of insecticides for quick, thorough eradication.
4. Rapid Reporting: Residents are encouraged to report suspected infestations immediately to limit spread and prevent re-infestations in neighboring units.

Travelers and residents in these Minnesota cities should:

1. Inspect sleeping areas for signs of bed bugs when traveling or moving.
2. Keep luggage off the floor and avoid bringing used furniture home without careful inspection.
3. Dry fresh laundry and luggage contents on high heat after return from travel.

While Minneapolis remains the state’s ground zero for bed bug activity, neighboring cities like St. Paul, Rochester, Brooklyn Park, and Bloomington are taking major steps to stem the onslaught—reminding everyone that vigilance is key in this ongoing battle.

Sources

[1] https://quickcountry.com/bed-bug-infested-minneapolis/
[2] https://www.orkin.com/press-room/worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-annual-rankings
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ceT0SxFRSsY
[4] https://quickcountry.com/minnesota-city-most-bed-bug-infested/
[5] https://kroc.com/bed-bugs-in-minnesota/