Five California cities — Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, Oakland, and Long Beach—are currently confronting significant bed bug infestations, each facing unique challenges tied to their urban environments. In Los Angeles, the combination of high population density and its status as a major travel hub has contributed to a rapid rise in infestations. The city has responded by implementing mandatory disclosure laws for landlords and running public awareness campaigns to help residents identify and address bed bug problems early. San Francisco, with its dense housing and expensive rental market, struggles with persistent bed bug issues. The city has adopted stricter regulations and encourages early detection and cooperation between tenants and landlords to manage outbreaks.
San Diego’s warm and humid climate allows bed bugs to remain active year-round, making eradication efforts more challenging. The city’s approach includes public education initiatives and the use of modern pest control techniques. Oakland and Long Beach, both marked by high housing density and increased travel, have launched awareness campaigns and provided resources to help residents combat infestations. Oakland also uses K9 inspections to detect bed bugs early.
Several factors drive the ongoing surge in bed bug infestations across these cities. Increased travel, both domestic and international, facilitates the spread of bed bugs through luggage and public transit. The pests have also developed resistance to many traditional pesticides, complicating eradication efforts. The popularity of secondhand furniture and clothing further increases the risk of introducing bed bugs into homes. Dense urban housing provides ideal conditions for bed bugs to thrive and spread between units.
Cities have responded with a range of strategies. Mandatory disclosure laws require landlords to inform new tenants of past infestations, while public awareness campaigns educate residents on prevention and early detection. Pest control companies are employing advanced treatments such as heat application and targeted chemical use. State law also mandates clear communication and cooperation between tenants and landlords to manage infestations effectively.
The impact of bed bug outbreaks is significant. Extermination can be costly for both property owners and residents. Hospitality businesses are particularly vulnerable to reputational damage if infestations occur. Health effects include allergic reactions, anxiety, insomnia, and secondary skin infections. Residents and visitors are encouraged to inspect accommodations regularly, exercise caution with secondhand items, and report suspected infestations promptly. Community-wide efforts, early reporting, and regular inspections are essential to controlling and reducing bed bug infestations in California’s major cities.
Sources
[1] https://passingthru.com/californias-bed-bug-problem-5-cities-where-youre-most-likely-to-find-them/
[2] https://thewrangler.com/insect-invasion-5-california-cities-combatting-bed-bug-onslaught/2025/06/09/
[3] https://thewrangler.com/insect-invasion-6-california-cities-combatting-bed-bug-onslaught/2025/06/23/
[4] https://www.terminix.com/exterminators/ca/san-diego-bed-bug-control/
[5] https://www.premiercaninedetection.com/bed-bug-treatment-oakland
