Canada Top 25 Bed Bug Cities of 2025 With BP Pest Control
Bed bugs remain a common and frustrating pest in many urban centers across Canada, especially as cities become more populated and tourism grows. In 2025, bed bug infestations are still at the forefront of pest control concerns. While these tiny insects are not inherently dangerous, their presence can lead to sleepless nights, anxiety, and, in some cases, health issues due to their bites. With high infestations occurring in densely populated cities, residents need to understand where bed bugs are most likely to thrive and how to prevent an infestation in their homes.
BP Pest Control will explore the top cities in Canada that face significant bed bug issues, why these cities are vulnerable, and what preventative measures can be taken to protect yourself from these resilient pests.
Why Certain Cities in Canada Experience Higher Bed Bug Infestations
1. Urbanization and Population Density
Larger cities with dense populations, such as Toronto and Vancouver, create an ideal environment for bed bugs. These pests thrive in apartments, high-rise buildings, and hotels, where the movement of people between units allows them to spread quickly. The more people are nearby, the higher the chances of encountering bed bugs, which can hitch a ride on clothing, luggage, and used furniture.
2. Tourism and International Travel
Cities with high tourism rates, like Montreal, Vancouver, and Quebec City, are often prime targets for bed bugs. Hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs can be hotspots for bed bug infestations. Tourists who travel from areas with active bed bug populations may unknowingly bring the pests, spreading them to other places.
3. Older Buildings and Housing Structures
Older buildings, common in cities like Montreal and Quebec City, tend to have cracks, crevices, and poor insulation, making it easier for bed bugs to hide. Many older apartment complexes or heritage homes may also lack the necessary pest-proofing measures that newer buildings might have.
4. Housing Turnover
Cities with high resident turnover, like Ottawa and Calgary, see more bed bug cases because new tenants often unknowingly bring bed bugs with them. Frequent moves can lead to infestations, particularly when secondhand furniture is involved.
Why Bed Bugs Are a Problem in Canadian Cities
Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects that feed on the blood of humans and animals. Their resurgence in Canada has been attributed to several factors, including increased international travel, temporary accommodation such as Airbnb, and the growing issue of low-income housing where infestations can quickly spread.
Canada’s major urban centers, particularly those with high population density and many transient residents, are seeing disproportionate bed bug cases. This includes cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary, where population density and tourism increase the likelihood of infestations.
Most Affected by Bed Bug Infestations
Canada’s battle with bed bugs continues in 2025, with several cities nationwide facing significant challenges in managing and controlling these persistent pests. Bed bugs are resilient, difficult to eradicate, and can quickly spread from one location to another, making it essential for residents to stay vigilant. Certain cities, especially those with high population densities, frequent international travel, and older buildings, experience higher infestations. In this article, we’ll examine Canada’s top bed bug cities and the factors contributing to these infestations.
The Top Bed Bug Cities in Canada (2025)
- Toronto, Ontario
- Vancouver, British Columbia
- Ottawa, Ontario
- Winnipeg, Manitoba
- Sudbury, Ontario
- Oshawa, Ontario
- Hamilton, Ontario
- St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
- Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
- Scarborough, Ontario
Toronto, Ontario
Toronto is Canada’s largest city, and it faces one of the most significant bed bug issues in the country. The city’s diverse population, high tourism rates, and vast housing market contribute to the increase in bed bug infestations. Older buildings, particularly downtown Toronto, offer ideal conditions for bed bugs to thrive, with their many cracks, crevices, and aging infrastructure.
The constant flow of visitors, international travelers, and new residents moving into the city helps these pests spread rapidly. Toronto’s many rental properties and high turnover rates give bed bugs numerous opportunities to travel between apartments and homes. The city’s dense urban environment, high-rise buildings, and large hotel industry are all prime targets for these resilient pests.
Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is another Canadian city struggling with a rise in bed bug complaints. As one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations, Vancouver attracts travellers worldwide, making it a prime location for bed bug infestations. Vancouver’s high-density housing, particularly older buildings, often leave cracks and gaps for bed bugs to hide and travel between units.
In addition, Vancouver’s relatively mild climate allows bed bugs to survive year-round, further complicating the issue. Many rental properties and apartment buildings in Vancouver experience frequent turnover, accelerating the spread of bed bugs. Public transportation and hotels are often affected, as visitors from international locations unknowingly bring these pests into the city.
Ottawa, Ontario
As Canada’s capital, Ottawa attracts many visitors to its government buildings, embassies, and hotels. The constant movement of people between different regions and countries contributes to the spread of bed bugs. While Ottawa is not as densely populated as Toronto or Montreal, its urban areas are still susceptible to bed bug infestations.
Ottawa’s older neighborhoods, along with a high number of rental properties, create the perfect environment for bed bugs to thrive. The city’s transient population exacerbates the problem, as new residents and travelers unknowingly bring bed bugs into various residential units and public spaces. Public buildings like libraries and theatres also experience bed bug issues.
Although Winnipeg is smaller than other major Canadian cities, it is experiencing a rise in bed bug complaints. The city’s cold winters often force people to bring pests indoors, where they can breed and spread. Winnipeg’s older housing stock and affordable rental prices have contributed to an influx of residents, increasing the potential for bed bug infestations.
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Bed bugs are most commonly found in apartments, rental properties, and hotels in the downtown area. The proximity of rental units makes it easier for bed bugs to spread from one apartment to another, making early detection and treatment essential. BP Pest Control services in Winnipeg report numerous bed bug-related calls each year, particularly in older buildings and residential areas.
Sudbury, Ontario
Sudbury, located in northern Ontario, has become an increasingly affected city for bed bug infestations. Like other Canadian cities, Sudbury’s older apartment buildings and multi-unit housing complexes provide ideal conditions for these pests to thrive. Bed bugs in Sudbury are typically found in residential areas, with a rise in reports from rental properties and public spaces.
As a smaller city, Sudbury’s bed bug problem is often less reported than in larger cities, but it’s becoming a growing concern. Renters and property managers in Sudbury must be proactive about bed bug prevention to prevent infestations from spreading.
Oshawa, Ontario
Oshawa has seen a steady increase in bed bug activity, particularly in rental housing and apartment complexes. The city’s older buildings provide plenty of opportunities for bed bugs to hide and multiply. Like Sudbury, Oshawa is often less discussed in major pest control reports but still faces significant challenges with these pests.
Public spaces in Oshawa, such as libraries, theatres, and public housing units, are also frequently affected. Prompt intervention and thorough pest management are essential in curbing the spread of bed bugs in Oshawa.
Hamilton, Ontario
Hamilton, another Ontario city, is also battling many bed bug cases. As the city experiences urban expansion and an influx of rental properties, the conditions for bed bug infestations have increased. High-rise apartments and older buildings in Hamilton are particularly vulnerable to these pests.
Hamilton’s proximity to major cities like Toronto and Niagara Falls means that international travelers often pass through, unintentionally spreading bed bugs. Hamilton residents must prevent infestations in high-traffic areas like rental units and public spaces.
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
While smaller than other cities on this list, St. John’s has become known for its increasing bed bug infestations. As with other Canadian cities, the problem is exacerbated by older housing stock and a transient population. Public spaces like libraries, theatres, and hotels in St. John’s also report bed bug sightings, particularly during tourist seasons.
Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
Sault Ste. Marie is experiencing increased bed bug complaints, particularly in rental properties and multi-unit housing complexes. This growing issue is partly due to the city’s older housing and close-knit communities, where bed bugs can quickly spread. The city’s smaller size means that infestations may not be as well-documented, but it remains an area of concern.
The Importance of Bed Bug Prevention
While knowing which cities have the most bed bug activity is important, prevention is the key to avoiding infestations. Here are some tips to protect your home and family from these pests.
Regular Inspections
The first step in preventing a bed bug infestation is regularly inspecting your living spaces, particularly the bedroom. Look for signs like blood spots on your sheets, small brownish or reddish insects, or dark spots that might indicate bed bug faces. If you spot any of these signs, you must call a professional BP pest control service immediately.
Mattress and Box Spring Encasements
Invest in high-quality mattress and box spring encasements. These protective covers help trap any existing bed bugs, preventing them from feeding on you. They also make it easier to spot bed bugs hiding on the outside.
Be Cautious with Secondhand Furniture
Secondhand furniture, especially mattresses and couches, can be a significant source of bed bugs. Scrutinize these items before bringing them into your home. If possible, treat secondhand furniture with heat or freezing methods to eliminate any potential pests.
Travel Smart
If traveling to any of the cities mentioned above, take extra precautions. Check hotel rooms for signs of bed bugs before unpacking, and keep your luggage elevated off the floor. Upon returning home, immediately wash and dry your clothing on high heat to kill any potential bed bugs that may have traveled with you.
Professional Bed Bug Treatment
Contact a professional BP pest control service if you suspect a bed bug infestation. Bed bugs are notoriously difficult to eliminate, and DIY methods may only worsen the problem. Pest control experts have the tools and knowledge to properly treat and eradicate bed bugs.
The Future of Bed Bug Control in Canada
As we move into 2025 and beyond, the problem of bed bugs in Canadian cities will likely persist, with urbanization, tourism, and high tenant turnover continuing to contribute to infestations. However, the increased use of advanced BP pest control technologies and heightened awareness around prevention could help reduce the spread of these pests. Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are working to implement better monitoring systems and preventive measures in high-risk areas, making it easier for residents to spot and manage infestations early on.
Public education, vigilance, and professional BP pest control are essential to combating bed bugs in Canada’s top cities. By staying proactive and informed, we can reduce the impact of these pesky insects on our communities.
Top Rated BP Pest Control and Trusted Bed Bug Control Experts across Canada
As Canada continues to experience urbanization and increased international travel, bed bugs in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, and Ottawa will likely persist. While these pests can be a nuisance, taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of an infestation. Regular inspections, caution with secondhand furniture, and bed bug-proof encasements can all help protect your home. If you suspect a bed bug issue, always seek BP Pest Control professional treatment to ensure the problem is entirely eradicated.
By understanding where bed bugs are most prevalent and taking the necessary precautions, Canadians can stay one step ahead of these resilient pests and enjoy a peaceful, bug-free home.