Florida’s older population... Snowbirds & Sunbirds

The "mature" population of Florida oscillates by almost 20 percent over the course of a year with the arrival of "snowbirds" during the Winter months and the departure of "sunbirds" escaping to cooler climes during the Summer months.

Form many Snowbirds, Wintering in Florida seems to be the first step in planning a permanent move to the Sunshine State.

Studies have shown that Snowbirds tend to be away from home for longer periods of time than Sunbirds. Over 72% of Snowbirds spend 3+ months at their secondary place of residence compared to that of 30% of Sunbirds.

Many communities plan for the additional traffic by adding police and fire protection, medical services and other needs. And, as the baby boomer generation ages, the numbers are expected to increase over the next few decades.

Almost 83 percent of Snowbirds come to Florida because of its warm winters. However, dodging the hot summers don't seem to be a factor in the travel excursions of mature Floridians. It is reported that less than 10 percent of Sunbirds leave their homes for weather-related reasons. Rather, 50+% depart to visit family and friends, while roughly 16% percent travel for recreational purposes.

SOME INTERESTING POINTS...

• Snowbirds are older and healthier than Sunbirds;
• Sunbirds were older and in better health than "stayers";
• 63+% Of Snowbirds rate their health as "very good" or "excellent" compared to that of 55% Sunbirds and 49% of stayers;
• Snowbirds are more likely to be married; and
• Sunbirds are more likely than Snowbirds to be employed.