Rhode Island, while not topping national lists, has seen a notable surge in bed bug activity in 2025, prompting several cities to intensify their combat against infestations. Here are five Rhode Island cities notably addressing bed bug challenges this year.
1. Providence
As the state’s urban center and most populous city, Providence is at the forefront of bed bug response. The city’s diverse housing stock and dense population have made it particularly vulnerable. Local health departments report increased calls and building inspections related to bed bug complaints in multi-unit dwellings.
2. Warwick
In Warwick, the second-largest city, property managers and pest control services have intensified public awareness campaigns, especially around apartment complexes and hospitality venues. Specialized exterminator services have ramped up training and treatments to handle repeated outbreaks.
3. Cranston
With several large residential communities, Cranston has seen a rise in bed bug reports this year. Municipal efforts have included distributing prevention tips and encouraging early reporting. City officials partner with local pest control providers to host workshops for residents on identification and effective eradication.
4. Pawtucket
Pawtucket, home to older housing and transient populations, is cited by local pest professionals as a hotspot for recurring bed bug cases. City authorities and landlords have coordinated closely, ensuring that treatment protocols meet the most recent health guidelines.
5. East Providence
East Providence has ramped up inspections, especially in affordable housing units and hotels. Public health campaigns now circulate regularly in community centers, warning about early signs of infestation and urging prompt action to curb spread.
Statewide Response and Prevention
- The Rhode Island Department of Health promotes best practices for bed bug identification, such as looking for “small red pellets, rusty spots on sheets, and live bed bugs,” and encourages immediate reporting.
- In 2025, new legislative measures have empowered municipalities to intervene swiftly in persistent cases, emphasizing landlord responsibility and tenant protections regarding infestations.
- Many pest control companies have adopted integrated pest management approaches, stressing the importance of early detection and community education to prevent widespread outbreaks.
Rhode Island’s cities are prioritizing coordinated public health responses, resident education, and rapid professional intervention as they confront a persistent bed bug onslaught in 2025.
Sources
(https://www.orkin.com/press-room/worst-cities-for-bed-bugs-annual-rankings)
(https://www.lajaunies.com/blog/americas-most-bed-bug-infested-cities/)
(https://www.frommers.com/tips/hotel-news/travelers-beware-these-u-s-cities-have-the-most-bed-bugs/)
(https://b105country.com/terminix-bed-big-infested-cities-2025/)
(https://health.ri.gov/healthy-homes/bed-bugs)
