Last Updated on December 13, 2022 by Gardens Home Management Services
Canadian snowbirds are not the only ones flocking to the United States. It is estimated that approximately 400 000 people cross the Canada-United States border every day, and nearly 800 000 Canadian citizens live in the United States. The two countries also share one of the largest trading relationships in the world, with more than $1 trillion in bilateral goods and services trade in 2021.
Many Canadian snowbirds, or winter visitors as they prefer to be known, make South Florida home during the winter months. Not all of them live in recreational vehicle (RV) communities. Many have homes, and there are several service providers offering Canadians guidance on buying property in Florida. But what makes Florida, and specifically South Florida, such a popular destination for Canadian winter visitors?
Winter in Florida
Is it ever really winter in Florida when the average high temperatures range from 62°F to 76°F (17-25°C)? Regular visitors know that winter is the season for layering, as afternoons are sunny and warm, but mornings and evenings can be chilly.
Yes, Florida has a six-month-long Atlantic hurricane season running from June 1 to November 30, but most Canadian winter visitors are back home by that time. And those using the hurricane preparation service of Gardens Home Management Services (GHMS) have no concerns during this time. GHMS inspects their homes as soon as a Hurricane Watch is announced to secure furniture, close shutters, and will also do a post-storm inspection.
Weather
Winter in Florida is a great time for outdoor activities with very little rain, but there are strong winds, and fog levels tend to be high. The wind picks up in the mornings and after sunset, so when out enjoying the Florida evenings, take a sweatshirt or jacket to wear. Humidity is very high all year round in Florida, with winter humidity levels from 87% to 53%, especially in the early mornings.
Activities During Winter
Do you have a seasonal home on the Treasure Coast or Palm Beach County in places like Boca Raton and Palm Beach, areas served by Gardens Home Management? The beaches are wonderful, and the water is some of the warmest in the state at an average of 74-80 degrees Fahrenheit (23-26 degrees Celsius).
Are you a Canadian snowbird with a home in South Florida but want to do something different? Have you ever been to the town of Citra in Florida? The 86-year-old The Orange Shop has lovely key lime Bundt cake and marmalade. Whether Bundt cake, Disney World or Nascar, there are lots of activities for winter visitors to Florida.
Best Communities in South-East Florida for Canadian Snowbirds
Although Miami-Dade and other counties are in South-East Florida, Palm Beach County is ideal for Canadian snowbirds. Do you love horses? Wellington is a horse-loving community with an active social scene. If you are passionate about golf, Jupiter has nineteen golf courses to enjoy, including the Medalist Golf Club. Boca Raton combines old-world architecture with art centers and mega department stores, while West Palm Beach has amazing restaurants and Broadway performances. All great communities for Canadian snowbirds.
Some Fun Facts About Canadian Snowbirds
Have you heard about the Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA)? It was founded in 1992 in Lakeland, Florida, to advocate for the rights of traveling Canadians on a range of issues, including the preservation of health coverage. Snowbirds are not the preferred term these days, but was coined in 1923 to describe seasonal workers. However, by 1979 it became widely used to describe the large number of retiree tourists moving south in the winter.
Gardens Home Management Services (GHMS) are home care professionals committed to supporting vacation homeowners in Palm Beach County. Are you a seasonal resident and need someone to take care of your home while you are away? Our Home Watch service does weekly inspections. If you are winter visitors or Canadian snowbirds and need assistance, contact Gardens Home Management today.