What Is a Snowbird?

A snowbird is someone who spends part of the year—typically the colder winter months—in Florida while maintaining a primary residence in another state or country.

Many snowbirds arrive between October and December and return home in the spring, enjoying Florida's mild weather, outdoor activities, and relaxed lifestyle.

Popular snowbird destinations include:

• Naples

• Fort Myers

• Sarasota

• Venice

• Punta Gorda

• Boca Raton

• Delray Beach

• Palm Beach

• Stuart

• Vero Beach

• Melbourne

• Daytona Beach

• St. Augustine

• The Villages

• Destin

Choosing the Right Florida Community

Every Florida community offers something different.

Ask yourself:

• Do you prefer beaches or golf?

• A quiet neighborhood or a vibrant downtown?

• Condo living or a single-family home?

• Walkability or more space?

• Access to healthcare?

• Airport proximity?

Choosing the right community often has a greater impact on your experience than choosing the right property.

Understanding Florida Residency

Many snowbirds remain residents of another state while spending several months each year in Florida.

Others eventually decide to establish Florida residency.

Residency can affect:

• Taxes

• Driver's license requirements

• Vehicle registration

• Voting

• Estate planning

• Homestead exemption eligibility

If you're considering making Florida your permanent home, it's worth understanding the legal requirements before making the change.

Preparing Your Home Before You Leave

Whether you're leaving Florida for the summer or leaving your northern home for the winter, preparation is important.

Before leaving your Florida home:

• Shut off unnecessary water supplies

• Adjust your thermostat

• Empty perishables

• Arrange mail forwarding

• Install smart security cameras

• Have someone check the property regularly

• Secure outdoor furniture

• Prepare for hurricane season if leaving before summer

A little preparation can help prevent expensive surprises.

Hurricane Season Matters

Many snowbirds leave Florida before hurricane season reaches its peak.

However, storms don't always follow schedules.

If your property will be vacant during hurricane season:

• Review your insurance policy.

• Secure outdoor items.

• Maintain landscaping.

• Have someone inspect the property after major storms.

• Understand your evacuation and emergency plans.

Healthcare Away From Home

Before traveling south each year, verify:

• Your health insurance network

• Prescription refill options

• Local physicians

• Emergency care facilities

• Telehealth availability

Planning ahead makes seasonal living much easier.

Insurance Considerations for Snowbirds

Living in two places means thinking about insurance a little differently.

You may want to review:

Homeowners or Condo Insurance

If your Florida home sits vacant for extended periods, your policy may have vacancy-related conditions or exclusions. Review your coverage to understand how your policy applies while you're away.

Auto Insurance

If you keep a vehicle in Florida, make sure it's properly insured and registered according to applicable laws and your insurer's requirements.

Flood Insurance

Even homes outside high-risk flood zones can experience flooding during heavy rain or tropical weather. Flood insurance is generally purchased separately from homeowners insurance.

Umbrella Insurance

If you own homes in multiple states or have accumulated significant assets, an umbrella policy may provide an additional layer of liability protection beyond your underlying policies.