What do snowbirds do in Arizona?
John Thompson
Published Apr 01, 2026
The majority of snowbirds settle in golf and condominium communities, mobile home communities and RV parks around the Phoenix area. Most winter visitors stay in the Western side of Arizona, where daytime temperatures are normally in the 20C range. Arizona is a golfer’s paradise with well over 300 golf courses.
What does it mean when you see a snow bird?
Snowbirds are typically retirees who wish to avoid the snow and cold temperatures of northern winter, but maintain ties with family and friends by staying there the rest of the year.
How many snowbirds are in Arizona?
300,000 winter visitors come each year with more winter visitors travel to the East Valley than any other part of Arizona. Seniors tend to congregate on the fringes of the metropolitan area.
What months do snowbirds come to Arizona?
Arizona cities like Phoenix, Tucson and Lake Havasu City are known for their warm winter temperatures. Snowbirds flock here every year in October and November to escape the cold and snow back home. Then, when things get cooking in the desert around May or June, they pack up and migrate north.
How much does it cost to Snowbird in Arizona?
Arizona: $2,500-$3,500 (condo); $3,000-$9,000 (single family). Alabama: $800-$1,500 (condo); $1,000-$2,500 (single family).
How many snowbirds come to Arizona each winter?
What is snowbird season in Arizona?
Winter in the desert Arizona cities like Phoenix, Tucson and Lake Havasu City are known for their warm winter temperatures. Snowbirds flock here every year in October and November to escape the cold and snow back home. Then, when things get cooking in the desert around May or June, they pack up and migrate north.
How much money do you need to be a snowbird?
The people who are most likely to become snowbirds are high-income retirees, generally those bringing in $75,000 per year or more, according to data from real estate information company CoStar Group, reported by CNBC. According to this data, retirees tend to stay in place.
Where is the warmest place in Arizona in the winter?
Yuma
Yuma is Arizona’s warmest winter city and the sunniest year round place in the US, with an annual average of 4,133 hours of sunshine. Yuma has a classic low desert climate with extremely low relative humidity and very high summer temperatures.
How can I be a cheap Snowbird?
How to Be a Snowbird on a Budget
- Keep a Simple Wardrobe. Even if you’re going to be in Miami for the winter, you will need some cool weather clothing.
- Contact Your Insurance Company.
- Think Inexpensive Hobbies.
- Consolidate Electronics.
- Go Digital.
- Pack for Your Pets.
- Cook at Home.
- Don’t Pack What You Can Buy.
What is the prettiest place in Arizona?
Surrounded by stunning red rock mountains and buttes, Sedona has one of the most beautiful settings in Arizona. About a 1.5-hour drive north of Phoenix, Sedona is a popular day trip from the city, but the town is worthy of much more than just a few hours.
Why are there so many snowbirds in Arizona?
There’s a reason you’re in Arizona right now, and it’s because wherever you live is a winter hellhole. The only thing more uninteresting than snowbirds are stories about back home. 3.) Ugly, Obnoxious Dogs
Why do Snowbirds go south in the winter?
As temperatures dip throughout the U.S., snowbirds head south to escape the winter wind, ice and snow of northern states. Health reasons such as pulmonary issues motivate some, while others simply prefer warm weather.
Where are the best places to live as a snowbird?
In addition to Alabama, other states that have been popular snowbird destinations are Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, South Carolina and Texas, according to Homeaway. Picking a snowbird destination — and deciding how long to stay there each year — depends largely on finances and tastes.
How to get ready for a snowbird lifestyle?
Consider hiring a snow-removal company to maintain the property, installing solar-powered exterior lights and asking a neighbor, friend or relative to keep an eye on the property, Tobias says. Also, make sure your bills reach you: Decide if you will forward your mail, plan to pay online, or pay in advance.
