For those of us who live in sunny South Florida, the issue of where to escape the winter frost doesn’t usually come up. We’re the ones who welcome the snowbirds. But for anyone else in the country, and with travel restrictions still greatly affecting international travel, more people are choosing to migrate south within the United States
Table of Contents
What is a Snowbird?
Mirriam-Webster defines a snowbird as “one who travels to warm climes for the winter“. We usually see this with northerners (either American or Canadian) who fly south for the colder months of the winter. The term itself has been around since the 1920’s when it was first used to describe domestic seasonal workers who moved south to better weather, to be able to continue working.
Snowbird Stats
Unless you live somewhere that has a relatively mild winter, the cold weather can wreak havoc on joints, increase fall risk and heating costs. Most snowbirds are over the age of 55 or have disposable income that sustains them for their time away.
While it’s difficult to track accurate statistics, it is estimated that there are approximately 4 million snowbirds that go south each winter, many of them Canadian. But Americans from northern states make up a large percentage of those who migrate to other states.
Many snowbirds are very social and have built lives in their “secondary” homes (even bringing their pets!) and stay in the warmer climates for up to 6 months. So where are they going?
Best U.S. Snowbird Destinations
Florida West Coast
The west coast of Florida has it all! Temperate climate throughout the winter months, senior (and snowbird) friendly housing costs and an overall more relaxed atmosphere than the east coast. Not to mention the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever see.
- Naples
- Clearwater
- Fort Meyers
Florida East Coast
The east coast of Florida has been a famous escape from the winter chill for well over a hundred years. With a more quickly-paced lifestyle and a higher density of population, the east coast is a great place to winter if you’re a go-getter who wants an active social life.
- Boca Raton
- West Palm Beach
- Jupiter
Arizona
Arizona can get hot in the summer, brutally hot. But in the winter months, the weather is just about perfect. Many people who have arthritis or joint issues find that the dry climate helps with inflammation or pain. There is a large percentage of housing dedicated to seasonal travelers. Golf courses and numerous outdoor activities abound.
- Gilbert
- Mesa
- Chandler
Texas
A number of Texas cities have now joined the snowbird trend, although here, they are called “Winter Texans”. Reasonable housing costs, beaches, golf courses, RV parks and too many outdoor activities to mention are among the reasons that northerners are starting to flock to the Lone Star State.
- Corpus Christi
- Austin
- Mission
California
California has year-round moderate temperatures and has a number of cities on the best “snowbird destinations” lists. Accessibility to beaches, strong infrastructure and transportation, as well as cultural events and theme parks make it a prime place to winter. Keep in mind that while housing costs may be higher, California property taxes are lower then the U.S. average…you just might want to buy your winter home here.
- Irvine
- Indio
- San Diego
Wrap Up
When considering where to spend the winter, it’s not only cost and climate that should be regarded. Remember to consider overall health and to choose destinations and behave in ways that keep you and your family healthy and safe this winter.
~ ~ ~
Do you have questions about how you can better support your loved one while they age in place in South Florida or regarding homecare in general? Please contact CareGivers of America here: Contact or call us toll free: 800-342-4197
*No information in this article is to be taken as advice, medical or otherwise. This post is not sponsored, but may contain external links to websites, articles or product examples. External links are used for example or refence purposes only and these links do not indicate specific product or website endorsement by CareGivers of America.