Bed bugs have become a serious problem across parts of Indiana in 2025, and several cities are seeing a sharp rise in infestations. These tiny pests are tough to get rid of and cause a lot of stress for homeowners and renters alike.
If you live in Indiana or are planning to visit, it’s important to know which cities are most affected and what’s being done to fight back.
Why Are Bed Bugs a Big Problem?
Bed bugs are small insects that feed on human blood, usually while people are sleeping. They hide in mattresses, furniture, carpets, and cracks in the walls. While they don’t spread disease, their bites can cause itching, swelling, and even allergic reactions in some people.
Bed bugs are very hard to kill without professional help, and once they enter a home or apartment, they can spread quickly. This makes them especially hard to control in large cities with lots of apartment buildings and travel activity.
Top 5 Indiana Cities Facing Bed Bug Infestations
These five Indiana cities have been hit hardest by bed bug outbreaks in 2025, according to recent pest control reports and health department alerts.
Indianapolis
As the state capital and most populated city, Indianapolis is seeing the highest number of reported bed bug cases. High traffic from tourists, busy hotels, and large apartment buildings make it easy for bed bugs to spread quickly.
Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne is the second-largest city in Indiana and has experienced a strong rise in infestations. The local government is working with pest control services to raise awareness and encourage early treatment.
Evansville
In Evansville, public housing and older residential areas are being affected the most. City health teams are providing education on how to detect and prevent bed bug problems.
South Bend
South Bend, known for its student population and tourism around Notre Dame, is facing issues in dorms, hotels, and rental homes. College campuses are especially vulnerable due to frequent student movement.
Gary
Gary has seen an increase in cases, especially in multi-family housing units. Community organizations are helping residents by distributing information and offering low-cost treatment options.
What’s Being Done to Control the Infestation?
Each of these cities has taken different steps to manage the outbreak. Here are some common actions being used to fight the bed bug problem:
Pest control companies are partnering with local governments to offer affordable inspection and treatment services.
Public awareness campaigns are running on radio, social media, and local TV to help people spot early signs of bed bugs.
Apartment managers are required to notify tenants and take quick action if bed bugs are found in any unit.
Some cities have created “bed bug task forces” to track cases and guide prevention efforts.
School and hotel staff are being trained to detect and report early signs of infestation.
What Should You Do If You Have Bed Bugs?
If you suspect bed bugs in your home, act quickly. Early treatment helps stop them from spreading.
Wash all your bedding, clothes, and soft items in hot water.
Vacuum floors, mattresses, and furniture often, and empty the vacuum right away.
Avoid moving furniture or items from infested rooms to clean ones.
Call a licensed pest control service to inspect your home. Most over-the-counter sprays don’t work well enough.
Notify your landlord if you live in a rental unit. In Indiana, it’s their responsibility to arrange treatment.
How to Prevent a Bed Bug Infestation
Bed bugs are often brought in through luggage, second-hand furniture, or by visiting infested homes or hotels. Here are a few tips to prevent bringing them into your home:
Check hotel beds and furniture for signs of bugs before unpacking.
Wash and dry travel clothes on high heat after returning home.
Avoid picking up furniture from the street or buying used mattresses.
Seal cracks and gaps in your home where bugs can hide.
Keep your home clean and clutter-free so bed bugs have fewer places to hide.
Bed bugs are more than just a nuisance—they can make life uncomfortable and stressful, especially when they spread quickly. In 2025, Indiana cities like Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Evansville, South Bend, and Gary are facing a serious challenge with these pests.
However, public health teams, pest control experts, and local governments are working hard to control the outbreak and help residents stay informed. If you live in one of these cities or plan to travel through them, stay alert and take simple precautions to protect your home and family.
