Bed bugs are causing big trouble in several cities across Kentucky, USA. In 2025, reports from pest control companies show that five cities and metro areas in Kentucky are dealing with serious bed bug problems. These tiny pests are spreading fast, especially in cities with lots of travel, people, and old buildings.
Let’s take a closer look at the five worst-affected places in Kentucky and what is being done to control the issue.
1. Lexington
Lexington, known for its population and busy city life, is often ranked as the most bed bug-infested city in Kentucky. It also appears on many national lists of the top 50 cities with the worst bed bug problems in the United States.
Why?
Lexington’s dense urban living, travel activity, and apartment housing make it easy for bed bugs to spread quietly from one place to another.
2. Louisville
Louisville is the largest city in Kentucky and has also become a major hotspot for bed bugs. It is often included in reports from pest control companies because of the high number of bed bug treatments done here.
What makes Louisville vulnerable?
Its large population, busy hotels, and shared housing units all provide easy hiding spots for bed bugs.
3. Paducah
Paducah, located in western Kentucky, may be smaller than Louisville and Lexington, but it still ranks high for bed bug problems. It has gained attention not just within the state, but also in national reports.
Why Paducah?
Experts say it’s due to limited awareness and older residential buildings, which create easy environments for infestations.
4. Cape Girardeau–Paducah–Harrisburg Metro Area
This larger metro region, which includes Paducah and stretches into parts of nearby states, shows a wider bed bug spread. This makes it clear that bed bugs are not just a city problem, but also a regional issue.
Metro matters
This combined area shows that bed bug problems can cross city lines and affect entire regions.
5. Other High-Traffic Cities
Besides these top cities, other busy towns and tourist areas in Kentucky also report rising bed bug issues. Places with lots of hotels, motels, and public transport often see seasonal surges.
Where else?
Travel-heavy places near airports, bus stations, and hotels are especially at risk during holidays and summer.
Why Are Bed Bugs Spreading in Kentucky?
Several reasons make these cities perfect for bed bug infestations:
Travel Movement: Tourists and frequent travelers may accidentally carry bed bugs in luggage.
Urban Housing: Apartments and shared buildings allow bed bugs to move between rooms without being seen.
Hot, Humid Weather: Kentucky’s summer weather helps bed bugs breed faster.
Old Infrastructure: Aging homes and hotels often have more cracks and crevices where bed bugs can hide.
What Are These Cities Doing About It?
Cities in Kentucky are taking serious steps to fight this insect problem:
Public Warnings: Local health departments are informing the public and hotels about prevention.
Pest Control Services: Professionals are increasing inspections and treatments, especially in summer.
Educational Campaigns: Residents are being taught how to spot signs of bed bugs early.
Bed bugs have become a serious problem in several parts of Kentucky in 2025. Cities like Lexington, Louisville, and Paducah are on the frontlines, along with their surrounding areas. But efforts are being made to fight back — through awareness, better pest control, and public education.
If you’re traveling in or to Kentucky, it’s smart to check hotel rooms and your luggage to avoid bringing home unwanted guests.
[1] https://wbkr.com/terminix-kentucky-cities-most-bed-bug-infested/
[2] https://www.mypmp.net/top-50-most-bed-bug-infested-cities-in-the-u-s-revealed-by-terminix/
[3] https://louisvilleky.gov/government/health-wellness/bed-bugs
