Snowbirds

Snowbirds are people, typically retirees, who migrate from colder northern regions to warmer southern regions during the winter months. This phenomenon is most common in North America, with many Canadians and Americans from colder states traveling to warmer southern U.S. states like Florida, Arizona, and Texas, or to Mexico and the Caribbean. The primary motivation for snowbirds is to escape harsh winter weather, enjoy warmer temperatures, and engage in outdoor recreational activities that are not possible in their home climates.

The snowbird lifestyle often involves a significant period of absence from their permanent residence, sometimes for several months at a time. This can impact local economies in both their departure and arrival destinations. In colder regions, businesses may see a decline in consumer spending during winter, while warmer destinations experience an influx of temporary residents, boosting tourism and service industries. Many snowbirds rent or purchase seasonal homes in their warmer destinations, contributing to the real estate market. They often form communities within these warmer locales, participating in social clubs and activities tailored to their interests. The term "snowbird" itself is metaphorical, likening these migrating individuals to birds that fly south to avoid the cold.