Mississippi, like much of the United States, is experiencing a persistent and growing challenge with bed bug infestations. Recent data and expert commentary highlight several urban centers in the state where the problem is most acute, as well as the ongoing efforts to combat these resilient pests.
5 Mississippi Cities Facing Significant Bed Bug Challenges
Based on recent reports and surveys, the following Mississippi cities and regions are among those most actively battling bed bug infestations:
- Jackson
As the state’s capital and largest urban area, Jackson consistently reports some of the highest numbers of bed bug infestations in Mississippi. It is also the only Mississippi city to appear on the 2025 Terminix list of the top 50 bed bug-infested cities in the United States1. Urban density, transient populations, and a mix of housing types contribute to the problem. - Gulf Coast Region (including Gulfport and Biloxi)
The Gulf Coast, with its high tourism and hospitality industry, is a hotspot for bed bug activity. Hotels and group residences in this area frequently report infestations, making ongoing vigilance and professional pest control essential. - Golden Triangle (Columbus, Starkville, West Point)
This region, anchored by three cities, has seen a notable rise in bed bug cases, particularly in apartments, dormitories, and low-income housing. The Golden Triangle’s mix of student populations and rental properties creates ideal conditions for bed bug spread. - Memphis Metropolitan Area (including northern Mississippi suburbs)
While Memphis itself is in Tennessee, its metropolitan area extends into northern Mississippi, where bed bug reports are increasing in both residential and hospitality settings. - Hattiesburg
As a university town with a significant student population and frequent turnover in rental housing, Hattiesburg faces recurring bed bug issues, especially in dormitories and multi-family dwellings.
Why Are These Cities Struggling?
- Urbanization and High Population Density:
Bed bug infestations are three times more common in urban areas than rural ones, making Mississippi’s larger cities more vulnerable. - Hospitality and Tourism:
Cities with many hotels, motels, and group residences see more frequent introductions and spread of bed bugs due to high guest turnover. - Low-Income and Multi-Family Housing:
Infestations are particularly difficult to control in subsidized housing where residents may lack resources for professional pest management.
How Are These Cities Responding?
- Professional Pest Control:
Most infestations are treated by licensed pest control professionals, as over-the-counter treatments are often ineffective and may worsen the problem due to pesticide resistance. - Public Health Reporting:
The Mississippi State Department of Health investigates bed bug complaints in regulated facilities (like nursing homes and child care centers) and provides guidance for detection and control in other settings. - Education and Prevention:
Public education campaigns emphasize prevention, early detection, and the importance of professional intervention.
The Bigger Picture
Bed bugs are now present throughout Mississippi, affecting all socioeconomic groups, but disproportionately impacting those with fewer resources for effective control. The psychological toll is also significant, with many residents reporting stress and anxiety linked to infestations. Ongoing vigilance, professional pest management, and public education remain the primary tools in the fight against this persistent pest.
If you suspect a bed bug infestation in Mississippi, especially in these high-risk cities, contact a licensed pest control professional and report issues in regulated facilities to the Mississippi State Department of Health for further guidance
Sources
[1] https://www.terminix.com/blog/whats-buzzing/top-bed-bug-cities/
[2] https://midsouthentomologist.org.msstate.edu/Volume4/Vol4_2_html_files/Vol4_2_005.html
[3] http://extension.msstate.edu/publications/bed-bugs-and-what-do-about-them
[4] https://msdh.ms.gov/page/14,0,119,542.html
[5] http://extension.msstate.edu/news/feature-story/2023/battle-against-bedbugs-best-won-prevention
