Los Angeles may be known for its golden beaches and near-perfect weather, but a new report suggests there’s another title it just can’t shake. According to data from Orkin, Los Angeles has once again ranked No. 1 on the 2026 Mosquito Cities List, marking several consecutive years at the top.
And this isn’t a random fluke. The ranking reflects a broader shift in mosquito activity across the U.S., with L.A. now firmly established as the country’s biggest hotspot.
🦟 How Los Angeles Took The Top Spot
For years, Atlanta dominated mosquito rankings, holding the No. 1 position from 2015 through 2020. But since 2021, Los Angeles has consistently taken over the top spot. It’s a sign that mosquito activity is no longer concentrated in the Southeast.
Today, L.A. outranks major cities like Chicago and New York, which hold the No. 2 and No. 3 positions respectively.
🦟 Top 5 Mosquito Cities in the U.S.
- Los Angeles
- Chicago
- New York
- Detroit
- Atlanta
🌴 A Growing Problem Beyond The Buzz
While mosquitoes are often dismissed as a seasonal annoyance, they pose a much bigger risk. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mosquitoes are the deadliest animals in the world. They’re responsible for more than 600,000 malaria-related deaths globally each year.
In the U.S., they can spread serious illnesses including West Nile virus, Zika, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, and increasingly, dengue fever. It’s an emerging concern even in places like Southern California.
🤝 A Campaign With Impact
As part of its seasonal initiative, Orkin is partnering with the American Red Cross through its “Mosquitoes Don’t Deserve a Drop” campaign. From May through August 2026, the company will donate $25 for every mosquito control service purchased, up to $250,000.
💡 How Angelenos Can Stay Protected
To help reduce mosquito exposure, Orkin recommends following the “BITE” method:
- Block access to skin with long sleeves and CDC-recommended repellents
- Install tight-fitting screens on windows and doors
- Trim shrubs and grass where mosquitoes rest
- Eliminate standing water to stop mosquito breeding
