When I envision retirement, I see myself in a palm tree-lined RV park with salt-water pools, hot tubs, saunas, and a clubhouse where all of us seniors get to have our potluck parties each month. What’s even better is the park where my beautiful RV will be camping at, sits right next to a marina where my very large cabin cruiser stays docked during the cold winter months in Michigan. Hey, a girl can dream, right?
Before I go planning my going away party, there are a few things to consider before moving south to live in the warmth. First, if you are doing it for health reasons, make sure to consult with your home healthcare team and family physicians. They can provide information about how warm weather will affect your specific health condition, referrals, and areas to consider moving to that specialize in specific medical conditions.
If you are looking for part-time work, research the job market in your area of interest and any potential employers that might fit well with your intentions. Also, a budget is needed to assess how much money is required to pay bills like housing costs, food expenses, transportation, and entertainment costs. Add the cost of insurance in there, too, as Florida is right smack in the middle of Hurricane Alley. Here are the southern states included in Hurricane Alley:
- Florida
- Texas
- Louisiana
- North Carolina
- South Carolina
- Alabama
- Georgia
- Mississippi
- Virginia
Researching the cost of living in various warm-weather locations is also essential. Some places are much more expensive than others, and you want to make sure you can afford your new lifestyle.
Finally, if you have family and friends whom you will be leaving behind, be sure to host a going-away party and say your goodbyes before making the move. Moving South can be a great way to enjoy your retirement years, but it is essential to do some planning first.
Here’s a lighthearted list to get you started:
Get a tan
If you’re moving from up north, chances are you’re not going to be used to the intense southern heat. Make sure to get a good base tan before you move; otherwise, you’ll be miserable when you step outside for the first time.
Learn to speak southern
The South has its unique dialect, and if you want to fit in, you’re going to have to learn how to speak like a local so you can say things like “y’all” and “fixin’ to.”
Get rid of your snow gear
Unless you’re planning on moving to the mountains, you will no longer need your snow gear. Get rid of your heavy coats, boots, and gloves, and invest in lighter clothing that is more appropriate for the warmer climate. This one was cool on the receiving end; my friend who moved to Florida gave me some beautiful coats that I still have today!
Learn about barbecue
Barbecue is a big deal in the South, and if you want to fit in, you will need to learn about it. Find out what the different regional styles are and what kind of meat is typically used. Learn how to make some of the classic side dishes, such as coleslaw, potato salad, or baked beans, for when you get invited to parties with your new friends.
Stock up on bug spray
If there’s one thing that’s plentiful in the South, it’s bugs. Those suckers never die! There isn’t a winter to kill them off!
Learn how to cook Southern food
If you want to fit in with the locals, you’ll need to learn how to cook some Southern food. Fried chicken, biscuits and gravy, and sweet tea are just a few of the staples you’ll need to master. Luckily, there are plenty of recipes online that can help you out.
Get a pool and close it in with a lanai
What’s the point of living in the South if you don’t have a pool? If you don’t already have one, now’s the time to invest in one. You’ll be glad you did when the temperatures start soaring!
What is the average age of a snowbird?
What is a snowbird anyway? A snowbird is a person who retired and fled the cold weather to live in a warm climate for the winter months. The average age of a snowbird today is between 50 and 69 years old. This Baby Boomer generation is known to be very active, and they tend to be wealthy, well-educated, and adapt to the snowbird lifestyle very well.
Snowbirds typically travel to Florida, Arizona, or California to escape the winter weather. Some retired people become “full-time” snowbirds and permanently live in their second homes. However, most snowbirds return to their primary residences during the spring and summer months.
Every year, millions of Americans travel south to escape the cold winter weather. These so-called snowbirds typically come from states in the northeastern and midwestern United States, where snow and ice can make life difficult to impossible for several months out of the year, especially for the elderly or seriously injured.
Florida, the Sunshine State, is a popular destination for snowbirds, as it offers warm weather and plenty of activities to keep visitors busy. In fact, Michigan is the second most popular native home for Florida snowbirds, second only to New York, followed third by Ohio.
The vast majority of Michigan snowbirds head to Florida’s Gulf Coast, where they can enjoy the sunny beaches and mild temperatures. Whether you’re looking to escape the winter blues or want to experience a different part of the country, spending a few months in Florida is sure to be a memorable experience.
Where is the cheapest place to be a snowbird?
For many people, the winter months are the perfect time to escape the cold weather and head for warmer climes. If you’re looking for an affordable snowbird destination, there are a few states that stand out as notably budget-friendly.
- Tybee Island, Georgia
- Pawleys Island, South Carolina
- McAllen, Texas
- Anna Maria Island, Florida
- Princeville, Hawaii
- Prescott, AZ
- Twentynine Palms, CA
In Georgia, Tybee Island is a popular choice among snowbirds, thanks to its mild winters and spacious beachfront rentals. In South Carolina, Pawleys Island is another excellent option, with a variety of affordable vacation homes and condos available. And in Texas, McAllen is an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable snowbird destination that still offers plenty of amenities and activities. Whatever your budget, there’s sure to be a snowbird destination that’s perfect for you.
Why do people retire to Florida?
In conclusion, people typically retire to Florida from the Midwest and East Coast states because it is much warmer on our bodies as we age. Also, we’ll probably be sick of the cold by the time we get to those Golden Years! For most, the snowbird lifestyle is a great way to escape winter and enjoy retirement in warmer temperatures.