Worst Cities for Bedbugs? Here’s Where Miami Ranks in the U.S.

As the summer travel season ramps up, you might be searching for your next escape from Miami's punishing heat and humidity. It's human nature to think the grass is greener elsewhere, so even as we plot our own departures, others are booking flights to sunny South Florida. Still, according to a recent survey, visitors have at least one reason to think twice before booking an Airbnb or hotel in our area.

Pest control company Terminix recently released its list of the "Top 50 Bedbug-Infested Cities in the U.S.," and the Miami-Fort Lauderdale area garnered some unenviable recognition. Using service data from more than 300 branches nationwide, the company identified the cities with the highest demand for bedbug control services. Terminix spotlighted Ohio, Texas, Florida, California, and Pennsylvania as states with high infestation rates, suggesting the spread is "likely tied to climate, housing trends, and travel hubs." Those three categories track in South Florida, which might explain why the Miami-Fort Lauderdale area came in at number 37.
Take a look at the full list to see if your summer destination made the cut. If your wanderlust is undeterred, Terminix suggests inspecting mattresses, headboards, and furniture for "small, rust-colored stains, shed skins, or live bedbugs" when you check into your vacation quarters. The company warns adult bedbugs can be difficult to spot, as they're the size of apple seeds. It also advises against placing your luggage on the bed as you inspect your room.

Terminix also shares tips to avoid bringing bedbugs back home with you — apparently, we have enough here already. The company suggests unpacking on a hard surface away from your bedroom, bed, and carpets; placing clothing in the dryer on high heat before washing it; and vacuuming inside your suitcase before storing it away.

Safe summer travels, Miami.