Updated October 2026 · By Sara Marsden-Ille
Snowbird season 2026–27 is under way. Every autumn, retirees from the northern states and Canada make the long trip south to escape the cold, dark months, usually staying somewhere between October and May. Here are the U.S. cities they choose most often, what draws them, and the few things worth sorting out before you leave home.
The top destination snowbird cities in the U.S. are known for their warm climates during the winter months, making them ideal for retirees and seasonal travelers looking to escape the cold. Don’t forget to protect yourself for those months away from home! The DFS Travel Protection Plan offers lifetime protection against unexpected funeral costs should anything happen when away from your residence.
US Funerals Online has a useful Guide For Snowbirds, RVers, and Retirees: How to Plan if You Winter Away From Home.
If you have any questions about the Travel Protection Plan and how to best protect your family, check out the Frequently Asked Questions page or Contact Us.
Here we have listed the top snowbird destinations and what makes them a popular choice for Snowbirds traveling South this winter:
1. Phoenix, Arizona
Arizona is known for its dry, sunny climate, so Phoenix offers abundant outdoor activities, affordable living, and a vibrant arts scene. Popular surrounding areas like Scottsdale, Mesa, and Chandler also attract snowbirds.
2. Tucson, Arizona
Tucson offers a similar climate to Phoenix but with a slightly smaller city feel and access to beautiful desert landscapes. It’s a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and golf. It is also a year-round senior living mecca with access to great medical facilities.
3. Fort Myers, Florida
Located on Florida’s Gulf Coast, Fort Myers is famous for its white-sand beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and active snowbird community. The neighboring cities of Naples and Cape Coral are also popular. For a closer look at Florida, see our guide to the best snowbird cities in Florida.
4. Naples, Florida
While Fort Myers is affordable and laid-back, Naples offers luxury living, pristine beaches, and a thriving arts and dining scene. It’s a top choice for snowbirds seeking a more upscale winter escape.
5. Sarasota, Florida
Snowbirds love Sarasota for its museums, galleries and theaters, which make it a great option for anyone who enjoys the arts. The city also has beautiful beaches, such as Siesta Key.
6. Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is a desert oasis known for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and warm winter climate. It’s a top destination for snowbirds looking for both relaxation and entertainment.
7. Orlando, Florida
Orlando may not be the first place that comes to mind as a snowbird destination, but it is still popular with seniors heading south. With affordable living options, plenty of golf courses and easy access to Florida’s beaches, it attracts retirees and part-time residents.
8. Tampa Bay, Florida
The Tampa Bay area, including Clearwater and St. Petersburg, offers a mix of urban living, beautiful Gulf Coast beaches, and plenty of cultural and recreational activities for snowbirds.
9. San Diego, California
San Diego is an ideal snowbird destination with its mild year-round climate, beautiful beaches, and outdoor lifestyle. Though it tends to be more expensive, the area’s weather and amenities attract many retirees.
10. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas offers snowbirds a mix of entertainment, warm weather, and affordable living. Beyond the Strip, there are numerous outdoor activities and a growing retiree community.
11. Corpus Christi, Texas
Corpus Christi, located on the Gulf Coast of Texas, is a popular choice for snowbirds seeking affordable coastal living, with warm weather and scenic ocean views. Especially, Winter Texans.
12. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
This picturesque island offers a more peaceful snowbird destination, with golf courses, beaches, and a relaxing atmosphere, making it a favorite for retirees.
13. Brownsville, Texas
Located near the southern tip of Texas, Brownsville offers a warm, subtropical climate and proximity to Mexico, with sandy beaches and the Gulf waters, making it a budget-friendly destination for snowbirds. If you plan to winter across the border instead, read what happens if you die in Mexico before you go.
14. St. George, Utah
Utah is known for its stunning red rock landscapes and mild winters. St. George is a top destination for snowbirds who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and golf, with easy access to nearby national parks.
These cities are particularly attractive for snowbirds due to their warm winter weather, vibrant communities, and amenities designed to accommodate seasonal residents. Many 55+ RV parks and residential communities cater particularly to snowbirds who travel in their RVs for their winter relocation.
Before you head south for winter 2026–27
Wherever you winter, a few checks before you lock the door save your family a lot of stress later:
- Know the 180-day rule. The DFS Travel Protection Plan covers stays of up to 180 days in any 12-month period at a second address. Stay longer and that address is treated as your legal residence (FAQ).
- Enroll while you’re at home. If you enroll while you’re away from your U.S. residence, the plan takes effect only once you return home.
- Check who the plan is for. It covers a death 75 miles or more from your legal U.S. residence, anywhere in the world, so it suits snowbirds whose permanent home is in the U.S.
- Know the cost you’re protecting against. Bringing someone home within the U.S. commonly costs $3,000–$7,000, and international repatriation regularly exceeds $15,000 (funeral shipping costs).
For the full list, from Medicare plans to documents, see the senior traveler’s complete protection checklist.
Ready before you go? Enroll in the DFS Travel Protection Plan: one payment of $450 per person, or $875 for a couple, for lifetime protection that brings you home.
I have been researching and writing about the death care industry for the past 18 years. End-of-life services and experiences are topics most people avoid thinking about until they must face them. My work provides comprehensive and independent resources for families, explaining the workings of the funeral industry, the laws governing funeral practices, and the death care trends that impact consumers. With a BA in Cultural Studies, I bring a unique perspective to analyzing cultural death care rituals, complemented by a career background in Business Management. The death care industry is undergoing significant changes, which I find fascinating. The shift towards cremation services and the emergence of sustainable alternatives like aquamation and human composting are of particular interest. I am also intrigued by how technology is reshaping the funeral planning process and experience. I write for US Funerals Online and DFS Memorials LLC, and contribute to various forums and publications within the death care industry.
