Urban beekeeping expands across parks and rooftops

Urban beekeeping has grown in US cities, with companies and hobbyists managing thousands of hives and New York registering more than 400 hives today compared with 68 in 2010. Experts report honeybees help pollinate local plants but may compete with native wild bees and share diseases.

Urban beekeeping is increasing in many US cities, with hives placed on rooftops, in parks and at schools. Commercial firms and hobbyists both maintain colonies for local honey, education and pollination services. The trend reflects concern for pollinators after past declines and ongoing hive losses. At the same time, scientists and conservationists raise questions about effects on native bee species and on urban floral resources. Key facts: - Montreal-based Alvéole reportedly manages about 60 hives in Washington, D.C., and around 2,000 hives across 73 cities worldwide. - New York City registered about 68 hives in 2010 and now has more than 400 registered hives. - The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported 3.8 million honeybee colonies in the U.S. as of 2022, and the National Honey Board says most of roughly 115,000 beekeepers are hobbyists with fewer than 25 hives. - Articles state honeybees play a major role in agriculture and help pollinate crops, while researchers note invasive pests such as the varroa mite and heavy seasonal losses; commercial beekeepers reportedly lost about 60% of their hives in 2025. - Several studies and experts cited in the reporting say high honeybee density in cities can reduce wild bee abundance and compete for limited floral resources. Summary: Urban beekeeping contributes to local pollination, education and interest in green space, while research and conservation groups report potential negative effects on native pollinators and note ongoing hive instability. Undetermined at this time.