What exactly is snowbird season? Thankfully, it has nothing to do with Elmer Fudd, but rather is the time of year you’ll find folks migrating south in search of warmer weather.
Florida and other warmer states step in with open arms, welcoming folks from the frigid north. Starting around October and running until April, the snowbird season is in full swing, as snowbirds travel south to blissful temperatures in the 70s, far from the icy claws of winter.
Understanding the Concept of Snowbird Season
History of the Term “Snowbird”
Ever wondered where the term ‘snowbird’ came from? The term comes from folks who move south for the winter, just like certain birds migrate to warmer climates when it gets chilly. Hence, the beginning of “snowbird season”, or the time of year in which this snowbird migration tends to occur.
To a younger population, however, the term snowbird may not sit well. It’s sometimes associated with slow drivers and jam-packed diners. If you want to play it safe, use the term ‘winter visitors’ instead.
The Impact of Snowbirds on Real Estate Development in the 1970s
The 1970s saw a major influence by snowbirds on real estate development. Picture this: flocks of folks moving down to the southern states every winter, and they needed places to stay, right?
This saw an upsurge in housing and real estate developments, especially in places with warm weather like Florida, and both North and South Carolina.
Now, snowbirds weren’t (and still aren’t) just temporary visitors. They were proud contributors to the local economy too! They spend their dollars on shopping, gas, and even paying real estate taxes.
While they may come for the sun and sand, snowbirds definitely leave their mark on the local economy (in a good way) too. Snowbird season marks an uptick in dining, shopping, entertainment, and more!
Characteristics and Lifestyle of Snowbirds
From Snowbirds to Sunbirds
Some of the snowbirds morph over time, planting their roots down south and declaring their Southern nest their forever home.
Now, they don’t say goodbye to the North for good. They still make the trip back up North for a couple of months each year. This, this is the transition from snowbird to sunbird – basically inverting snowbird season!
The South becomes their primary residence, and the sunbird heads North during the hottest months, usually June through August to get away from the heat. Funny how that happens, right?
Health Benefits Enjoyed by Snowbirds
Believe it or not, there are some health benefits around being a snowbird, and definitely it’s a factor as to why snowbird season exists!
There’s something about those warm southern rays and coastal breezes that does wonders for the snowbirds. Studies report a better overall mood, increase in physical activity, and fewer aches and pains. Plus, the sun offers a good dose of that essential vitamin D!
Read more about what a snowbird is and learn about the health benefits of this lifestyle and why people choose it!
Exploring Snowbird Demographics
The Surge of Baby Boomers in the Snowbird Population
The majority of snowbirds nowadays fall between the golden ages of 50 and 69. They’re not just your average retirees, however.
They’re the active sort that refuse to slow down, who’ve taken to the snowbird lifestyle like a duck to water. Snowbird season for the retiree population marks the time of year they can take in more sun and stay active, avoiding the shoveling and cold back home.
The Canadian Influence: Largest International Snowbird Community
Have you ever wondered where the most plentiful flock of snowbirds hail from aside from the United States? About 10 percent of snowbirds have a home “nest” somewhere beyond the United States border!
The notion of flying south for winter isn’t exclusive to the U.S. The majority — about four out of five — of these international snowbirds, come from our chilly neighbor up north, Canada.
Canadian snowbird season is usually November to March but that can of course vary between different folks based on their individual needs.
Popular Areas to Spend Snowbird Season
For snowbirds, the southward journey in winter isn’t just about escaping the cold. It’s also about finding the best hangout spots and top-notch snowbird destinations to spend snowbird season in.
Everyone has their favorites, places that have, over the years, become beloved migrating grounds for scores of snowbirds. Now, it’s not just Florida! In fact, many people head for Arizona and Texas every year.
It doesn’t stop there, either. Some venture even further afield. Las Vegas and Hawaii have become somewhat of a magnet in their own right.
Even California and as far off as Costa Rica have made the cut for some! I’ll list a few popular cities for snowbird season below:
| City | State | Average Temperatures During Snowbird Season |
| McAllen | Texas | 72℉ |
| Destin | Florida | 65℉ |
| Brownsville | Texas | 73℉ |
| Venice | Florida | 74℉ |
| Gilbert | Arizona | 75℉ |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Snowbird Season?
Snowbird season refers to the period during the winter months when individuals migrate from colder regions to warmer climates to escape harsh weather conditions.
While the exact time can vary, snowbird season usually ranges from October through April.
When Does Snowbird Season Typically Occur?
Snowbird season typically occurs in the late fall or early winter months, starting around October or November, and lasting until the spring months, usually March or April.
Most snowbirds choose to travel for 2-3 months of the year, but it can vary based on lifestyle and personal preference.
Where Do Snowbirds Travel During Snowbird Season?
Snowbirds often travel to southern regions within the United States, such as Florida, Arizona, Texas, and California.
In addition, you can sometimes find snowbirds in Mexico and other international warm-weather locales.
Why Do People Choose to Travel During Snowbird Season?
People choose to travel during snowbird season to enjoy milder climates, engage in outdoor activities year-round, and escape the cold and snow of their home regions.
It can be beneficial for both health and mobility, especially in older generations.
How Do Snowbirds Prepare for Snowbird Season?
Snowbirds prepare for snowbird season by planning their travel routes, securing their accommodation in warmer climates, and packing accordingly for the extended stay.
They also need to make arrangements for managing their primary residences while they are gone.
Are There Any Challenges Associated with Snowbird Season?
Challenges associated with snowbird season may include increased traffic in popular snowbird destinations, higher demand for accommodations, and more overall crowds.
While it is a good boost for the local economy, many permanent residents of popular destinations are frustrated by longer lines and slowdowns created by so many people.
Wrapping Up
Snowbird season is the perfect time to get away if you want to escape colder temperatures and enjoy a warm winter. When the chilling winds appear up North, snowbirds, like migratory birds, start heading south.
RV communities, state parks, and vacation rentals start seeing a whole lot of activity during the winter snowbird season.
So, what do these snowbirds do once they escape the cold? Lots of outdoor activities! Ping pong, beach volleyball, and anglers testing their luck in the sun-warmed waters – these snowbirds make the most of snowbird season by spending it outside.
At the end of the day, the snowbird season isn’t just about escaping the cold, it’s a lifestyle, a community, and a significant part of the economy.
I was born and raised in the northern United States, and one thing I learned pretty early on in life is: I hate the cold and snow. Sure, there’s something charming about the first snowfall of the year, but after that, I’m out.
While a part of my heart will always lie in New England, the older I get, the more I want to escape it during the coldest months.
That’s where the snowbirding lifestyle earned its appeal for me. When the bad weather starts to loom, I head south to find warmer climates to get me through until spring and warmer weather returns.
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