10 Surprising Statistics on Snowbirds in Florida for 2026
Anyone who lives in Florida knows what October means: the beginning of snowbird season. Snowbirds are people who come from a colder climate, often New York or Canada, and spend the winter in Florida. Snowbirds usually maintain a home in Florida that they can use to enjoy a warm and tropical winter away from the snow and frigid wind. But even those who know snowbirds may be surprised by some of the statistics on this demographic.
What is Snowbird Season Florida?
Snowbird season in Florida refers to the months when residents from colder northern states and Canada travel south to enjoy the warmer weather. Canadians remain a major part of this seasonal population, and they also represent 18% of international homebuyers in Florida, making Canada the top international buyer country in the state.
Many snowbirds either own a second home or rent for several months at a time, which supports local businesses and adds steady economic activity throughout the winter. The season is known for outdoor events, social gatherings, and a lifestyle that’s hard to match anywhere else, which is why Florida continues to be a preferred escape for those looking to avoid snow and freezing temperatures.
When Does Snowbird Season Start in Florida?
Snowbird season often begins in late fall, typically around November, as winter approaches northern regions. Most Canadian snowbirds stay three to six months, depending on their plans and the length of stay permitted under U.S. travel rules. Their travel rhythm generally follows this pattern:
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Arrive: November
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Enjoy winter in Florida: December through March
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Head home: April through early May
This timing aligns with what many communities across Florida experience each year: an influx of winter residents during the cooler months in the north, followed by a gradual return home when spring arrives in Canada.
But when do snowbirds come to Florida in large numbers? While some snowbirds begin arriving in early fall, the largest wave usually reaches Florida in December and January, when temperatures drop significantly in northern states and across Canada. This seasonal movement brings higher demand for restaurants, entertainment, healthcare, and real estate, creating a vibrant and energetic winter atmosphere throughout the state. Snowbird season has become a long-standing Florida tradition, welcomed for its positive impact on tourism and the sense of community it brings each year.
Snowbirds in Florida Statistics: Surprising Facts and Figures
1. The Number of Snowbird Population During the Winter
It is estimated that Florida has about one million residents who spend only part of the year, but at least several weeks, in the Sunshine State. During this time period, the population of Florida is roughly 5% higher than it is in other months. This doesn't include the state's 122 million tourists each year, who usually stay much less time.
2. The Average Age of Snowbirds in Florida
The majority of snowbirds nationally are retirees, which means they tend to be older, between 50 and 69 years old. This population is able to move between states easily because they do not hold jobs in their home states and may have more money to be able to own and maintain multiple homes. Snowbirds of this age can also fit in nicely in Florida, which has a high retiree population and may enjoy senior-focused activities during their stay.
However, more people in their 40s and early 50s have begun snowbirding thanks to remote work, meaning the demographic is slowly expanding beyond retirees.
3. The Average Stay of Snowbirds in Florida
Snowbirds typically stay in Florida for several weeks to several months, often three to six months total. The informal snowbird “season” spans October through April, and it’s common for many residents to spend the full six months allowed under U.S. travel and tax rules.
Some travelers choose shorter stays or travel home for the holidays before returning to finish the season.
4. The Effect of Snowbirds on Exchange Rate
The vast majority of winter visitors in Florida are from Canada. While living in two countries poses many challenges, one that is often cited is the exchange rate. Especially in times of high inflation, a strong U.S. dollar can mean that Canadians are spending more during their time in Florida.
5. The Most Popular Cities for Snowbirds in Florida
Snowbirds can be found throughout all of Florida — usually closer to the coasts, but most of Florida is a short drive from the coast.
Some of the most popular areas for snowbirds include:
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Fort Myers
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Naples
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Destin
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Sarasota
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Clearwater
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Cape Coral
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Panama City Beach
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Palm Beach
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Boca Raton
Different people may have different preferences that help them decide where to settle, but there is a strong community of snowbirds in these areas.
6. The Most Popular Activities for Snowbirds in Florida
Snowbirds come to Florida to escape the cold winters in their hometowns, so it's no surprise you'll often find them outside. Sitting on the beach or boardwalk, swimming, or enjoying Florida's many lakes and trails are usually at the top of their list when it comes to activities.
Because Florida has a large population of retirees and senior citizens, there are also many activities available for this demographic. Snowbirds who are also retirees may enjoy local classes in the arts, exercise, and anything else you can think of!
7. The Impact of Snowbirds on Florida's Local Economy
Snowbird season brings a strong wave of customers to Florida’s local businesses.
In 2019, all out-of-state visitors (not just snowbirds) contributed over $96.5 billion to the Florida economy and supported more than 1.6 million jobs, according to VISIT FLORIDA’s economic analysis. Snowbirds make up an important share of winter visitors within that larger tourism economy.
Many snowbirds also own homes or condos, and those properties may be rented out during off-season months, generating additional economic activity.
8. The Average Spending of Snowbirds in Florida
Snowbirds are a diverse group, so while some will be very frugal, others may spend an extravagant amount to enjoy their time down south. The major costs are long-term items like housing, transport to and from Florida, and associated costs like insurance. From there, additional things like activities and food can contribute to spending and the Florida economy. Most estimates place a snowbird season in the low five-figure range, often $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on length of stay and location.
9. The Impact of Snowbirds on Florida's Housing Prices
Florida real estate is at a premium for a variety of reasons: a higher cost of living, the proximity to beautiful beaches, and growing populations. Snowbirds tend to live in concentrated areas and can increase the demand for housing in the state. But as many of them rent their homes in the off months, snowbirds can also provide housing supply, making them a key part of the real estate market in Florida.
10. The Impact of Snowbirds on Florida's Jobs
While most snowbirds don't work, they are a huge fuel for employment in Florida. It is estimated that over 1.6 million jobs each year depend on snowbirds, usually because restaurants and leisure activities hire extra hands during the winter. Additionally, hotels and resorts that house snowbirds tend to gain stability from their visits. Anyone who works off of a gratuity will tell you that snowbird season is a lucrative time for them because of the higher population!
Ready to Enjoy the Sunshine State? View Florida Homes For Sale!
For snowbirds, buying a house in Florida can be overwhelming if you don't know the area or are in a different state during the process. That's why it's important to have a trusted realtor on your team, like Florida Realty Marketplace. You can browse Florida's most popular cities and find the best place to spend a warm winter, or reach out to us to talk about the best option for you!
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