Snowbird Lifestyle, Cuisine, Entertainment and Travel
From Snowflake to Snowbird A Mini Report from a Former Snowflake I wasn’t familiar with “snowflakes,” which are a variation of snowbirds, until a reader contacted me about it. Online Artificial intelligence (AI) defines the primary difference between snowbirds and snowflakes as the former have …
The Clara Barkley Dorr house, 1871, an iconic home surrounded by orange trees located in the downtown historic district of Pensacola, Florida North Florida Vs. South Florida A Comparison of Weather, Cost of Living Index and Ease of Travel by Vehicle This is the fourth …
This is the third of a multi-part series. The first was Florida vs. Arizona and the second is Florida vs. Texas. I already stated in my original post of Florida compared with Arizona and other popular snowbird destinations as follows:
"Let's begin by addressing the obvious. It makes the most sense that if your primary home is on the West Coast that you choose a snowbird community that is also on the West Coast. Right? Investing yourself in an area will be a long term pursuit if you choose wisely and getting there is a huge consideration of where to go. If unsure, then try out different options and see what works best. I highly doubt most snowbirds will repeat a trip from say, Indiana, Michigan or Ohio to Arizona more than once or twice. It's a long, multi-day drive. I'm not a gambler, but if I was, I would put high odds on what I refer to as the big slide. Most snowbirds slide south to their winter destinations.
My region in Northwest Florida primarily attracts people from the Northern Midwest states with a sprinkling of other areas mixed in. Most of my friends and acquaintances drive south on Interstate 65 all the way to our panhandle community. The last thing I want to do is spend more time on the road trip than absolutely necessary, especially with a dog on board.
If an individual or couple does not have pets or a lot of absolutely necessary belongings, flying is a possibility. But, there's more than meets the eye with that and unless you have no other option, such as a medical condition or choosing Hawaii for your winter destination, a road trip makes the most sense for all of the snowbirds I've ever encountered.
Traveling to your snowbird community is a major factor, but the cost of living and weather are also significant. More than one conversation with future snowbirds has taken place about "Which is better?" types of scenarios. This post is the second of several that will discuss "Which is better?" of two states. Florida is the long recognized gold standard of snowbird destinations. It is the king of the country for popularity attracting seasonal residents such as snowbirds. However, it is not the only option and for many, it's not the best option for their own personal circumstances and needs.
Here I will briefly provide the facts of three topics: weather, costs and ease of travel comparing Florida with Texas. As always, weigh everything carefully and do your own research. The general information provided here is for a basic overview of what to expect and not intended to be specific for my readers."
Florida is the number one hottest state in the US with an average temperature of 73 degrees Fahrenheit in 2024. Hawaii is ranked number four with an average temperature of 66.9 degrees Fahrenheit in 2024. In-between is Louisiana and Texas, followed by Mississippi, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Arkansas and Oklahoma rounding out the top ten. Alaska is the least hot with an average temperature of 27.8.
Winters in Florida are mild and summers are hot and humid. July is the hottest month of the year in Florida, averaging 90 to 92 degrees and frequently exceeding 100 degrees. February is the coldest month in Hawaii with an average temp of 72 degrees. The hottest month in Hawaii is September with an average temp of 80.7 degrees Fahrenheit. Hawaii is very consistent in average temperatures and has never fallen below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit) nor risen above 100 degrees.
Source: Climate at a Glance, StateWide Mapping - National Centers for Environmental Information
Source: https://www.usclimatedata.com/climate/united-states/us
Source: https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/hottest-states
Although both Florida and Hawaii are humid, Florida edges out Hawaii with an average relative humidity of 74.5% vs. Hawaii with 73.3% average humidity. Alabama is the most humid state at 77.1%, followed by Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Hawaii, Iowa, Michigan, Indiana, Maine and Vermont rounding out the top ten. Nevada is least humid with an average 38.3% rate, which makes it the most arid of all the states.
Humid heat always makes temperatures feel hotter and more stifling because the high moisture in the air makes it difficult for sweat to evaporate from human skin. However, humid temperatures are generally better for sinuses and can decrease symptoms of asthma and allergies. In a dry climate, you may sweat more than in humid heat, but may not notice because the moisture evaporates from skin more quickly. It is easier to become dehydrated in dry climates.
https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/most-humid-states
Florida is known as the "Sunshine State," however, Florida is ranked number nine for sunshine, vs. Hawaii which is ranked number five.
Florida has an average of 66% sunny days per year and an average of 101 clear days and 2,927 sunny hours, making it ninth of the states in the US. Data was measured in Tampa, Florida located on the Western Peninsular side of Central Florida. Hawaii has an average of 71% sunny days per year and an average of 90 clear days making it fifth of the states in the US. Data was measured in Honolulu, Hawaii located on the island of Oahu. Data is not available for the number of sunny hours in Hawaii.
For comparison, Arizona is by far the top state in the US for sun exposure and has the highest percentage of sunny days at 85% and an average of 193 clear days per year. Arizona's average number of 3,806 sunny hours per year is followed by Nevada and New Mexico respectively with 79% and 76% to round out the top three. Data was measured in Tucson, Arizona located on the southern border.
States with the highest percentage of sunny days in descending order are: Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Colorado, Hawaii, California, Oklahoma, Wyoming, Florida, Georgia, Utah, Kansas, Idaho, South Carolina, South Dakota and Virginia. Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi and Nebraska each have an average of 61% sunny days per year. Alaska has the least percentage of measured sunny days at 41%.
Sources: https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/sunniest-states
The UV index is a measure of the strength of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Hawaii and Florida both have very high UV rays; however Florida is rated as a "ten," and Hawaii is an "eleven." Hawaii is highest of the United States, ranking number one, followed by a four way tie of Florida, Arizona, California and Nevada with each rated a "ten." Florida has a 3,636 average daily UV Irradiance 2015. No data for average daily UV Irradiance 2015 is available for Hawaii. With the highest score of 11, Hawaii is the state closest to the Equator and thus has the most intense UV rays. Alaska is the lowest with a score of one.
Skin cancer, premature aging and other health problems are all linked to prolonged UV exposure of the sun. Precautions such as using sunblock and avoiding sun and UV exposure should be taken to lower the risk of sun-related health issues.
Source: EPH Tracking
Source: https://worldpopulationreview.com/state-rankings/uv-index-by-state
The Cost of Living Index indicates Florida is much more affordable than Hawaii. Although Florida is slightly more expensive than the national average, Florida's Cost of Living Index is 102.8 and Hawaii's score is much higher than anywhere else in the United States with a score of 186.9. Information included here is the most current "Composite Cost of Living Index 2024 Annual Average" published by the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center.
The State of Hawaii is by far the most expensive state due to the whopping cost of living index of 186.9. For comparison, the state with the lowest score for 2024 is West Virginia at 84.1. My home state of Indiana is a reasonable 90.5 which is similar to Michigan's 90.4 and Iowa at 89.7. Other cold weather Midwestern states have scores as follows: Wisconsin, 97.0; Minnesota, 95.1; Illinois, 94.4; Ohio, 94.2 and Missouri, 88.7.
Northeastern states are all very high cost of living scores as follows: Massachusetts, 145.9; Washington D.C., 141.9; New York, 123.3; Maryland, 115.3; New Jersey, 114.6; Vermont, 114.4; New Hampshire, 112.6; Connecticut, 112.3; Rhode Island, 112.2; Maine, 112.1; Delaware, 100.8 and Pennsylvania, 95.1.
Northwestern states range from a high of California, 144.8; Alaska, 123.8; Washington, 114.2; Oregon, 112.0, Utah, 104.9; Colorado, 102.0; Idaho, 102.0; Nevada, 101.3; Wyoming, 95.5; Montana, 94.9; Nebraska, 93.1; South Dakota, 92.2; North Dakota, 91.9 and Kansas, 87.0.
Source: https://meric.mo.gov/data/cost-living-data-series
Because the State of Hawaii is a cohesive group of 137 volcanic islands located in the Pacific Ocean approximately 2,000 miles southwest of the U.S. mainland, it is not accessible by vehicle. The only methods of transportation to Hawaii are by air or water. Therefore there are many travel considerations that are addressed in my previous post: Flying Snowbirds. The island of Oahu is home to 2/3 of the residents of Hawaii; however, intra-island transportation may be necessary depending on the logistics of flights and island destinations.
Florida has a distance of about 450 miles north to south with about 400 miles in the East/West upper portion of the state. No other state in the continental US can come close to Florida's 1,146 miles of shoreline. The peninsula of Florida is surrounded by the Gulf of America and Atlantic Ocean. Florida is almost 66,000 square miles and does not have any international border.
Hawaii's miles of shoreline is fourth overall with 750 miles of Pacific Ocean shoreline. California is third ranking between Florida and Hawaii with 840 miles of shoreline. Hawaii has zero miles of international border and is fourth smallest for land area with 10,931 square miles. Alaska is by far the largest US state with just over 665,000 square miles and 6,640 miles of Pacific Ocean shoreline.
Florida has three major North/South interstate highways that will take you where you want to be.
Interstate 95: Carolinas and Eastern Peninsular Florida
Interstate 75: Georgia, Central and Western Peninsular Florida
Interstate 65: Northwest Florida and Alabama
--Scott Stabile, American Author, Speaker
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from or in connection with, the use of this website.
Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of Midlife Snowbird. We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links or advertisements does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
Florida features 1,146 miles of coastal shoreline and Texas has about 367 miles of shoreline. [Gulf Coast of Northwest Florida, Miramar Beach, Florida] Florida Vs. Texas A Comparison of Weather, Cost of Living Index and Ease of Travel by Vehicle This is the second of …
Florida Vs Arizona: Sun and heat are high in both states which makes each a great choice for outdoor activities [Maravilla Resort in Miramar Beach, Florida] Florida Vs. Arizona A Comparison of Weather, Cost of Living Index and Ease of Travel by Vehicle Let’s begin …
![In a competitive snowbird housing rental market, it's essential to know your top priorities [Seaside Florida]](https://midlifesnowbird.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/0_8440-60Savannah_Seaside_20250208-scaled.jpg "0_8440 60Savannah_Seaside_20250208")
This season there has been a major scramble to secure snowbird housing for next year. Don't be fooled, it's cut throat in an insidious way. A casual question, "Are you returning next year?" might be the opener for an intel mission to help someone seeking a place. Be careful not to overshare your unit info or future plans.
Years ago, I was naive and thought the owner/property manager of our beloved rental would shield us from someone else swooping in to scoop it up. Upon meeting snowbirds on the beach, I didn't go out of my way to hide the location of our lovely spacious unit, but didn't realize there was zero protection to save it for us. I mistakenly assumed we had a right of first refusal. We didn't.
It was a hard lesson after several years of returning to the same lovely unit that we learned "our" condo was reserved for the next year right 'out from under our nose' as they say. We were bewildered and angered that there were no safeguards for our loyalty. Ironically, this year it happened to my Wisconsin snowbird friends. An online third party reservation for next year ruined their plans to return to the pet friendly two bedroom unit they came to love for it's fantastic gulf view with swaying palms.
This is how it all turns into a scramble to secure suitable snowbird housing. Like a game of musical chairs, instead the stakes are much higher.
For us, the property manager offered to move us across the hall to a matching layout of our three bedroom, three bath rental for the following season. The main issue was we felt the decor was not our style. It was a mix of dated items and newer furnishings including lovely off white sofas and easy chairs. Reluctantly, we accepted the change and were pleasantly surprised to discover the western view of the new place offered stunning sunsets through the entire wall of windows. The unit we came from had parking lot views and lovely Eastern sunrises, but the sunsets were even more appealing. We stuffed the dated wall art, green and yellow throw pillows and a zebra-covered chair into an interior area where we didn't have to look at them and put them back upon departure. We returned to the condo several times until we eventually bought our own place.
My Wisconsin friends have been searching for their next rental for weeks. They've found several options, but to date they've not booked anything. Some units were priced well above market value, others were not actually available despite being promoted as such. It is likely my friends will be making several compromises to obtain a pet friendly unit in the same community as their current place. To stay within budget, they toured a larger 3/3 compared with their current 2/2, but it does not have the gulf views nor updated bathrooms. However, unbeknownst to my friend, this unit's current snowbird renewed and my friend was actually on the wait list. It wasn't meant to be and she was on the fence anyway. Another potential unit features ground floor gulf views with a patio. However, the unit does not have a way to contain the dog outdoors and it's adjacent to a very high traffic area of the complex, which lacks privacy. My friends are gambling that as the year progresses, some rentals may come back on the market.
One mistake I've personally witnessed is not being fully prepared to commit when an available unit comes up for consideration. In a competitive rental market, it is imperative to plan ahead and fully establish what your top priorities are as well as your deal breakers. If your primary objectives are Jan/Feb dates; pet friendly; decent view; 2/2 and within or near budget, then you must be ready to book immediately if the prospect covers most of your criteria. This isn't the time for hardball tactics such as insisting on personal tours, negotiating rates or asking the owner to replace the mattresses and update the decor. If the unit meets most of your desired objectives, it may be the best option vs. not having any options because of waiting too long to commit and someone else takes it.
Don't overlook the value of solid communication with your property manager or owner if you are relatively happy with your current rental and want to return again. Many snowbirds wisely develop a strong line of communication with the owner of their rental. They communicate regularly and with clarity so there's no mixed messages. If you want to return, say so. If you already know you found and reserved something else, be courteous and let the owner know so they can put their energy into securing new prospects. Whatever you do, don't get ahead of yourself and let go of your existing rental until you are absolutely sure your new contract is fully executed.
Make a thorough list of questions that pertain to each property you consider. Write down the questions, answers, who you spoke with and the date/time. It's easy to get flustered when searching something as important as housing. You may go in circles for weeks or months until you find the right place. Being disorganized will make if more difficult to commit when you do find a place that meets most or all of your needs. Your priorities may change over time as well. If you have your heart set on criteria that may not be realistic for what's available in your budget, it's time to reevaluate. Don't forget to ask for the cancellation policy. Upon discussion you might not be comfortable with it and never forget the person wanting you to book your reservation may not tell all of the facts. It's imperative to get the cancellation information in writing. Be firm, don't let your emotions get in the way of good business sense.
Finally, a word of advice to never forget this fact: if the property is sold to a new owner your contract is likely to be voided. The new owner will not have any legal obligation to fulfill it. Hopefully they would want to, but it's a scenario that could destroy your plans. Always have a Plan B and Plan C. Best wishes as you navigate your housing, it's worth it, but it does take time to position yourself for a successful future snowbird season.
--Alan Lakein, American Author
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from or in connection with, the use of this website.
Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of Midlife Snowbird. We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links or advertisements does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
Always follow safety precautions, never interfere with the work and compliment the efforts and results Under Construction: Thank You for Your Patience The Realities, Do’s and Don’ts When Your Complex is Under Construction Winter is the off season for the vacation rental markets that snowbirds …
Our beloved Bodie and Dan shortly before Bo’s cancer diagnosis, Miramar Beach in Northwest Florida, November 2024 The Hardest Goodbye One Last Snowbird Season with our Beloved and Terminal Golden Retriever Eight years ago we excitedly brought our strong, stubborn, energetic male Golden Retriever puppy, …
As both an owner and a guest, I've seen the good, bad and ugly for check in procedures and expectations. For example, a couple years ago our newest neighbors were standing in the hallway quite awhile with their adorable dog, Cookie. I learned they were waiting on an agent of the local rental company to come and unlock the door so they could unpack their loaded vehicle. Why? A keyless entry doesn't need anyone to let a guest in, especially if they are checking in within the allotted time. Every management company is different and you'll want to be very prepared for how you will get into the property, especially if it's before or after hours. Things happen and don't always go according to plan.
Personally, I love the road trip, the process of transitioning from our Northern home to our Southern home. It's a time for adjusting to new and letting go of the old. Part of the journey involves finding the charm along the way. A huge part of that is planning the stops, including the small town road side stands as well as the super travel centers and interstate highway attractions such as Peach Park in Clanton, Alabama.
Below is a list of useful topics that take a little time to think about and prepare for, but are worth the effort to save time and hassles later.
I thought I had just about everything figured out for our upcoming snowbird season until a couple days ago and realized I have no idea where the contract is. It's not in the usual places and we need to verify our payment information with the property manager. The amusing thing is, we are the property owners. But we need a contract and payment just like everybody else.
At least 30 days' prior to departure, locate and review your contract for policies, check in and departure times, access codes, pet fees or other fees and anything else you might need to refresh in advance. If your rental includes a golf cart, verify details that information as well.
Maybe you're super fortunate there's only one way to get to your destination. Not so much for us. Even though we spend a lot of time on I-65, there's always lane changes, river tolls, "Sunpass" tolls and construction or lane and road closures. Weather and accidents are another unpredictable problem on the interstate.
Once we exit the interstate, there's a myriad of route options that take us through the beautiful back country of Southern Alabama. We have found Waze to be a huge help to get us to our home in Northwest Florida because there are many variables with routes, fuel centers, food and more. Road trips are already stressful and anything you can do to know when, where and how you're traveling is a life saver.
By reserving and paying for your hotel as far in advance as possible, you will likely not only save money, you'll also be promised the type of room you prefer. For us, pet friendly and convenience to I-65 is most important, followed by a King bed, in-room microwave and refrigerator, reasonable price and located in Athens, Alabama, our favorite stopping point. Other considerations include ADA access, cancellation policy, proximity to restaurants and fuel centers as well as in an area not plagued by crime. During busy season, such as holidays and the start of Spring Break, snowbirds and spring breakers are intersecting at the hotels and you'll want to get your room booked before they do. Other competition includes long term hotel guests who may be in the area for their trades or special events such as weddings and celebrations. By reserving in advance, you'll dodge many of the unknowns by waiting too long to book.
Be sure to know your codes! We have a code for the gated complex, access to the beach gate, fitness center and yet another code for our property's keyless entry. Our vehicle also has a convenient keyless code that I use quite often. If I'm walking by, I don't need to
bring my keys if I need to get something out of there. We use the cargo space as a "mini garage," and store our utility bags, boxes, tools and much more.
Log your codes into your phone or somewhere that you can easily retrieve them in a hurry. At home we have a ton of codes too, but I use them more often than I do in the gaps between time in our winter home. Usually we update our snowbird codes prior to departure because they change about 4 or 5 times a year. As we drive up to the gated entry, it's less stressful to have them ready.
Never ever assume that just because you've stayed in the same place multiple seasons that nothing will change for the better or worse for your next stay. It's wise to ask your property manager or owner for any possibilities of the following:
--Planned maintenance/closure of pools, hot tubs/spas, fitness centers, sports courts, elevators, etc
--New amenities such as covered BBQ grill areas, volleyball, pickleball, tennis courts, etc
--Activities, social events and local festivals and events
--Construction or renovation of the individual unit/home where you will be staying for the season
--Construction/renovation of the complex where you will be. This could include closure of your balcony or patio area; closure of walkways and parking spaces, loud noise, dust and other unpleasant issues.
--Local businesses that may change their seasonal hours of operation. Some close for the entire month of January for various reasons, so if your heart is set on frequenting a favorite coffee shop or establishment, you'll want to know in advance if it's going to be open when you plan your morning coffee run or evening stroll to the local winery or pub.
A cautionary tale:
I met a lovely Arkansas family who selected their winter rental because it was located directly across from the elevator. They knew their elderly mother would be staying for a couple of weeks and were pleased to get a top floor unit right by the elevator. Their joy was ruined when they arrived on site to find the elevator was closed for at least a week due to being upgraded and replaced. There were other working elevators, but they were too far for the mother, who had mobility issues. So the family had no choice and went home. I felt terrible for them, but it just didn't work out. Guests with ADA needs or elderly dogs may experience a similar situation. By checking in advance, problems can be identified and hopefully rectified prior to arrival.
-- Alan Lakein, American Author
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from or in connection with, the use of this website.
Through this website you are able to link to other websites which are not under the control of Midlife Snowbird. We have no control over the nature, content and availability of those sites. The inclusion of any links or advertisements does not necessarily imply a recommendation or endorse the views expressed within them.
Online Groups: Sort Out the Nonsense How to Sift Through the Answers and Motives of Online Q&A’s Prior to the rise of the powerful internet and social media, information was exchanged and shared in person, in local establishments amongst patrons and through traditional media channels …