Top 10 US destinations for snowbirds to flock to escape the winter cold
THE TAKEAWAY
As temperatures drop across much of the U.S. with the arrival of fall, many snowbirds are heading south in search of sunshine, mild weather and an escape ahead of winter’s chill.
A new analysis from StorageCafe ranked the 10 best snowbird destinations in the U.S., with Florida and Texas dominating the list.
The analysis considered the latest available data from the National Centers for Environmental Information, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, FEMA, the U.S. Census Bureau, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other sources.
So, if you're looking to trade a cold winter for a warm one, here are America's top 10 best snowbird locations according to StorageCafe.
In Winter Haven, the name is all you need to hear.
Known for its chain of freshwater lakes and warm winter climate, the Central Florida city offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, golfing and other outdoor activities.
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Its relaxed atmosphere and year-round access to sunshine make Winter Haven an appealing escape for people looking to leave winter weather behind.
Located in Central Florida, Lakeland offers warm winter weather, outdoor attractions and easy access to both Tampa and Orlando.
The second-best ranked snowbird destination in the country offers lakes, golf courses and a relaxed pace make Lakeland an appealing place for snowbirds looking to trade freezing temperatures for sunshine.
McAllen, Texas, ranked third on StorageCafe’s list of the best snowbird destinations. Located in the Rio Grande Valley, the city is known for its mild winter weather, tropical breezes and abundant outdoor activities.
The South Texas city is also a major birding destination, with more than 500 bird species recorded throughout the region. Golf, shopping and access to nature parks make it a popular winter escape for "Winter Texans."
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Mission, Texas, offers snowbirds a warm-weather escape in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley.
The city is surrounded by scenic trails, nature parks and outdoor attractions, including Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, where visitors can spot bird species rarely seen elsewhere in the United States.
Vero Beach, Florida, claimed the No. 5 spot on StorageCafe’s list of the best snowbird destinations.
Located along Florida’s Atlantic coast, the city offers uncrowded beaches, mild winter weather and easy access to the Indian River Lagoon.
The area’s natural beauty is a major draw, with opportunities for fishing, kayaking, wildlife watching and golf.
Vero Beach is also known as a key sea turtle nesting area along the Treasure Coast.
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Hollywood, Florida, brings together the best of a laid-back beach town and a lively South Florida getaway.
The city’s nearly 2.5-mile Hollywood Beach Broadwalk is lined with restaurants, shops, live music and ocean views, giving snowbirds plenty to do outdoors during the winter.
Located between Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Hollywood ranked No. 6 in StorageCafe’s list of the best snowbird destinations.
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Brownsville, Texas, offers snowbirds a tropical-feeling escape near the Gulf of America and the Rio Grande.
The city is known for its rich border culture, outdoor recreation and access to beaches, wildlife areas and nature trails.
Its warm climate and world-class birding opportunities helped Brownsville land at No. 7 on StorageCafe’s list of the best snowbird destinations.
Just 30 miles from Brownsville and South Padre Island, Harlingen, Texas, gives snowbirds a convenient base for exploring the Rio Grande Valley and Gulf Coast.
The city offers mild winter weather, outdoor recreation and easy access to beaches, birding destinations and borderland culture.
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Clearwater, Florida, gives snowbirds a Gulf Coast getaway with sugar-white sand, warm water and spectacular sunsets.
The area also offers plenty of activities beyond the beach, from nightly celebrations at Pier 60 to wildlife encounters at Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
On the Florida Gulf Coast surrounded by scenic beaches, Clearwater ranked No. 9 on StorageCafe’s list of the best snowbird destinations.
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For snowbirds seeking a slower pace, Lake Wales, Florida, offers a quieter Central Florida escape surrounded by citrus groves, rolling hills and outdoor attractions.
The city is best known for Bok Tower Gardens, a historic landmark featuring lush botanical gardens, nature trails and a 205-foot singing tower.