This Page's Content Was Last Updated: March 6, 2024
Each winter, tens of thousands of Canadians migrate southward in search of sun, sand, and a respite from the biting cold. Snowbirds - a term used to describe seasonal travelers, typically retirees who spend extended periods in warmer climates - is not just a trend; it's a way of life. For many, it’s an annual escape that can span the entire winter season. If you're a Canadian looking to join their ranks, this guide will lead you to the best destinations where azure skies and balmy breezes await.
- Popular U.S. destinations for Canadian snowbirds include Florida, Arizona, Texas, and California.
- Snowbirds head south in the winter to escape the cold and enjoy a warmer climate.
- Extended stays allow snowbirds to explore local communities at a leisurely pace, and may mean owning a property, timeshare, or long-term rental.
- Use your Canadian credit history
- No pre-payment penalty
- Save up to $4,500 USD on closing costs on U.S. mortgages42
The United States is a popular destination for Canadian snowbirds, given its proximity, friendly visitor policies, and a wide variety of destinations catering to different tastes.
Most Canadians settle in the state of Florida, but Arizona, California, and Texas remain popular alternatives. According to the National Association of Realtors, 44% of homes in the U.S. bought by Canadians were in Florida, while 14% were in Arizona.
Source: National Association of Realtors, 2023
Canadians are among the top foreign buyers of properties in the United States, only outranked by buyers from China and Mexico. In 2023, 10% of homes purchased by a foreigner was to a Canadian buyer, while 13% was to a Chinese buyer and 11% was to a Mexican buyer. That’s a decline from 2012, when Canadians made up almost a quarter of homes purchased by a foreign buyer.
Get pre-approved for a U.S. mortgage8 with RBC using your Canadian credit history and income, and start shopping for your Arizona home with your Pre-Approval Certificate that is good for 120 days. Plus, there are no bank or lender fees with RBC, saving the average borrower up to $4,500 USD in closing costs!42
Florida Median Home Sales Price
$410,000
as of December 2023
1-Year Change
+4%
Nicknamed the "Sunshine State," Florida is a haven for snowbirds and is the most popular state for Canadians to buy a home in. From the vibrant metropolis of Miami to the laid-back charm of the Florida Keys, the state offers something for everyone. Orlando's theme parks provide family-friendly fun, while the Everglades and the Gulf Coast beckon nature enthusiasts.
Cities across Florida are often regarded as some of the best places to retire in the United States, leading many Canadians to buy a home in Florida. In U.S News & World Report’s 2023 list of the Best Places to Retire in the United States, eight Florida cities made it to the top 20: Pensacola, Tampa, Naples, Daytona Beach, Sarasota, Melbourne, Lakeland, and Ocala.
The median sale price of single-family homes in Florida was $410,000 in December 2023, according to FloridaRealtors. That's up 4% year-over-year. With its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and no state income tax, it's no surprise that people are flocking to Florida from all over the country. Over the past five years, Florida’s median home price has increased by over 60%, up from just $255,000 back in December 2018.
As of December 2023, the most expensive place to buy a home in Florida is Collier County, which includes Naples and Marco Island, with a median sale price of $797,000.
The most cheapest place to buy a home in Florida is Highlands County, which includes Sebring, with a median sale price of $257,500.
As home prices in Florida rise, securing a mortgage has become an even more important step for most Canadians to buy a home in the state. With RBC Bank, you can get a mortgage to buy a home in Florida using your Canadian credit history. Plus, RBC Bank doesn’t charge any bank or lender fees, helping to reduce your closing costs.
Miami
Median Single-Family Home Price: $585,400 (December 2023)
Famed for its beaches, nightlife, and Cuban influence, Miami is a popular destination for snowbirds seeking an urban escape. With warm weather year-round, you can enjoy outdoor activities like golfing and biking or simply relax on the beach.
Key West
Median Home Price: $1,139,500 (December 2023)
The Florida Keys are a chain of tropical islands connected by bridges, making it easy to hop from one to another. The laid-back vibe, stunning beaches and sunsets, and excellent seafood make it an ideal spot for snowbirding. Key West is the largest city in the Florida Keys and is also the southernmost point of the United States.
US 1 to Key West, Florida Keys
Orlando
Median Single-Family Home Price: $439,995 (December 2023)
Home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Seaworld, and a host of other popular theme parks, Orlando is perfect as a base for family trips. The city also boasts great shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Sarasota
Median Single-Family Home Price: $504,990 (December 2023)
For a quieter and more sophisticated snowbird experience, head to Sarasota. Known for its cultural attractions like the Ringling Museum of Art and pristine beaches like Siesta Key, it's an ideal destination for those seeking a mix of relaxation and enrichment. Sarasota has frequently been named as the best place to retire in the U.S.
Elsewhere in the state, Pensacola, Destin, and Panama City on Florida's Gulf Coast are also popular snowbird destinations with their white sand beaches and emerald waters.
Beach in Sarasota, Florida
Arizona Median Home Sales Price
$429,900
as of December 2023
1-Year Change
+4%
With its rugged desert landscapes and iconic saguaro cacti, Arizona is a favorite among snowbirds seeking outdoor adventures and a healthy lifestyle. The cities of Phoenix and Tucson are cultural centers with renowned museums and galleries, while offering plenty of sun and mild winters. Buying a home in Arizona can be more affordable than other snowbird states, particularly California.
Phoenix
Median Home Sales Price: $454,993 (December 2023)
Phoenix, the state's capital and largest city, is a popular choice for snowbirds due to its excellent weather and abundant recreational activities. From hiking trails in the mountains to golf courses, there's no shortage of outdoor adventures.
Tucson
Median Home Sales Price: $385,000 (December 2023)
Tucson's proximity to Mexico makes it a cultural hub with a strong Hispanic influence. It offers a relaxed atmosphere, stunning scenery, and a rich history to explore.
Tucson Mountain Park, Arizona
California Median Single-Family Home Sales Price
$819,740
as of December 2023
1-Year Change
+6%
California's diverse geography - from the high sierras to the coastal beaches - provides an array of activities. Snowbird hotspots like Palm Springs and San Diego offer year-round sunshine and a relaxed environment. The state's wine country, Napa Valley, is also a popular spot for snowbirds.
Palm Springs
Median Single-Family Home Sales Price: $607,500 (December 2023 for Riverside County)
Palm Springs is known for its sunny weather, stunning mountain views, and mid-century modern architecture. It's also a popular spot for outdoor activities like golfing, hiking, and biking.
San Diego
Median Single-Family Home Sales Price: $911,500 (December 2023)
With its laid-back vibe and perfect climate, San Diego is a top choice for snowbirds. The city boasts beautiful beaches, a vibrant food scene, and plenty of recreational opportunities.
San Jacinto Mountain, Palm Springs, California
Texas Median Single-Family Home Sales Price
$340,000
as of Q3 2023
1-Year Change
-1.5%
The Lone Star State is a draw for its Southern hospitality, cowboy culture, and warm climate. Cities like San Antonio and Austin are known for their lively music scenes and historic sights.
San Antonio
Median Home Sales Price: $319,900 (Q3 2023)
San Antonio is home to vibrant culture, delicious Tex-Mex cuisine, and historic sites like the Alamo. The city's River Walk is a popular spot for dining, shopping, and taking in the scenic views.
Corpus Christi
Median Home Sales Price: $290,000 (Q3 2023)
Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi boasts miles of beautiful beaches and a laid-back coastal lifestyle. It's also known for its excellent fishing opportunities.
River Walk in San Antonio, Texas
If you’re a Canadian citizen, you are allowed to stay in the United States for up to six months (180 days) at a time without a visa. However, if you plan on staying longer, there are certain steps you can take to extend your stay:
Apply for an extension: You can apply for an extension of up to six additional months through the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before your initial six months expire.
Obtain a Green Card: A Green card, also known as permanent resident status, allows you to live and work in the US indefinitely. However, obtaining a Green Card is a lengthy and complicated process that isn’t guaranteed.
If you’re a Canadian permanent resident, you may need a non-immigrant visa depending on the passport of the country of your citizenship.
RBC doesn’t charge bank or lender fees on its cross-border U.S. mortgages8, such as foreign national premiums. This can save the average Canadian homebuyer up to $4,500 USD in closing costs42!
- Use your Canadian credit history
- No pre-payment penalty
- Save up to $4,500 USD on closing costs on U.S. mortgages42
Venturing a bit further south, Mexico has become an increasingly popular destination for Canadian snowbirds, offering an exotic escape that's still close to home.
Cancun
Cancun's turquoise waters and white sand beaches are just the beginning. This region also serves as a gateway to the ancient Mayan world, with archaeological sites like Chichen Itza and Tulum within reach.
Puerto Vallarta
Nestled between the Sierra Madre Mountains and the Bay of Banderas, Puerto Vallarta is a picturesque destination with a rich cultural scene and a flourishing expat community.
Zona Romantica in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Los Cabos
At the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula, Los Cabos impresses with its dramatic desert backdrop, luxury resorts, and some of the best sport fishing in the world.
Playa del Carmen
Just south of Cancun, Playa del Carmen offers a more relaxed atmosphere with easy access to the island of Cozumel and the world's second-largest coral reef.
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Canadian citizens can visit and stay in Mexico for up to six months (180 days) at a time without a visa.
For those looking to stay in Mexico for longer than six months, snowbirds can apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) which allows them to stay in Mexico for up to four years. The TRV is renewable, and after four years, you can apply for permanent resident status if desired.
- Use your Canadian credit history
- No pre-payment penalty
- Save up to $4,500 USD on closing costs on U.S. mortgages42
Canadian snowbirds are a unique breed of traveler. The allure of extended stays in warmer destinations is not just about the weather. Snowbirds seek solace from the harsh northern winter and find it in the comfort of international communities that offer the perfect blend of familiarity and adventure.
For most, snowbirding is more than just a trip. It's a way to escape the monotony of the cold season, stay active, and enjoy a wealth of experiences. From indulging in local cuisines to keeping active with recreational activities, the benefits of snowbird travel are as diverse as the destinations themselves.
How to Become a Snowbird
Choose your destination: Start by researching different destinations and determining which one best fits your preferences and budget.
Prepare for extended stays: Make sure you have adequate travel documents, including passports, visas if required, and any other required paperwork. Also, arrange for travel insurance that covers you while abroad. Some insurance providers offer multi-trip annual insurance plans, which can be a cost-effective option for snowbirds who travel frequently.
Plan your finances: Create a budget and consider options like renting out your home in Canada while you're away to supplement your income.
One major decision snowbirds face is whether to rent or buy a property at their destination. Renting offers flexibility, as you can choose different locations each year and aren't tied down to one property. However, buying a home in the U.S. can be cheaper in the long-run if you are set on a location, and it can possibly provide financial returns. Consider the cost of a cross-border mortgage with most lenders requiring a down payment of at least 20%. Keeping up with mortgage payments while relying on retirement income can be difficult.
Escape the Cold
The primary motivation for snowbirding is to escape months of snow, cold, and darkness. Southern destinations provide a sunny and warm environment that energizes and rejuvenates.
Extended Vacation
With the luxury of time, snowbirds can take advantage of extended stays to explore the local area at a leisurely pace. With no strict schedule to adhere to, you can truly immerse yourself in a new way of life.
Cultural Experiences
Living as a local, even for just a few months, affords you unique opportunities to learn about different cultures, traditions, and ways of life.
Community and Friendship
Snowbirding often leads to forming lasting friendships with fellow travelers, creating a community wherever you decide to perch for the season. The Canadian Snowbird Association offers resources and discounts for snowbirds, with events and gatherings for snowbirds to connect.
- Use your Canadian credit history
- No pre-payment penalty
- Save up to $4,500 USD on closing costs on U.S. mortgages42
As part of the RBC U.S. HomePlusTM Advantage program, you can get connected with a local real estate agent in Arizona that has been through Canadian-certification training. That means they have experience working with cross-border buyers like yourself and are well-versed in the unique challenges that come with buying a home in Arizona as a Canadian.
They’re also top-performers in the Arizona housing market, being required to maintain at least a 90% customer satisfaction rating and complete at least 10 or more transactions per year. Plus, when you buy or sell a home with an Arizona real estate agent through RBC U.S. HomePlusTM Advantage and HomeStory, you can get a cash bonus of up to $9,500!38 39
Before jetting off, it's important to consider key factors that can affect your snowbird experience.
Cost of Living
Research the cost of living in your chosen destination, including rent, groceries, and leisure activities. Some areas may be more affordable than others, allowing you to stretch your retirement dollars further.
Healthcare Facilities
Access to healthcare is critical. Ensure your destination has adequate medical services. It's also wise to inquire about health insurance coverage for international travel.
Safety and Security
For peace of mind, research the safety of potential destinations. Consider the local crime rate, political stability, and any travel advisories issued by the Canadian government.
Accessibility and Transportation
Choose a location with good transportation links. Proximity to airports, rental car services, and public transit can alleviate travel-related stress and make it easier to explore the area, as well as getting to and from your winter home.
Happy Snowbirding!
The decision to become a snowbird is about embracing a lifestyle that focuses on comfort and adventure. With this guide, you're well on your way to discovering the perfect winter wonderland, and perhaps a new home away from home. So pack your bags, set your out-of-office message, and get ready for a season filled with memories under the sun.