Canadian “snowbirds” – retirees who head south each winter to escape the cold – are reconsidering their annual American getaways. According to a new one Winter research into smart travelers 2025 by the Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada (THIA)only 26% of Canadians plan to visit the United States this wintermark one 37% drop compared to last year.
This surprising decline comes despite decades of tradition of Canadian retirees spending months at a time in sunbelt states Florida, Arizona, Texas and California. But this year, many are choosing to stay closer to home or go elsewhere – and it’s not just about politics.
Rising travel costs top the list
The research showed that 41% of respondents quoted the rising travel costs as the main reason to skip the US in 2025. Inflation, higher fuel prices and soaring accommodation costs have made longer stays south of the border significantly more expensive.
In the meantime, 40% mentioned political tensionsalthough the research made it clear that these concerns extend beyond party political issues. Many respondents said they were more concerned about “social instability” and “unpredictable border policies” than about any specific political figure.
Other important factors included poor exchange rates (29%) And safety problems (20%)which some linked to recent reports of rising crime and extreme weather conditions in popular US destinations.
Where do they go instead?
While the US is seeing fewer Canadian snowbirds, destinations such as Portugal, Spain, Mexico and the Caribbean report increased interest. These regions offer better currency values, affordable long-term stays, and a welcoming environment for retirees.
European options such as Portuguese coast of the Algarve And Southern Spain’s Costa del Sol are especially popular for their mild winters, access to healthcare and large expat communities. Mexico and the Caribbean remain attractive because of their proximity, culture and cost-effectiveness compared to Florida or Arizona.
A shift in snowbird culture
Perhaps most striking is the demographic shift: baby boomers – historically the core of Canada’s snowbird community – showed the largest decline in US travel plans. Analysts suggest this could represent a broader cultural change, with retirees becoming more globally adventurous and less tied to traditional winter destinations.
As a travel expert Lauren Veer explains: “Canadian snowbird migration is evolving. This generation is more budget-conscious, more politically aware and open to exploration outside North America.”
Whether this is a temporary trend or a long-term shift remains to be seen – but one thing is clear: for many Canadian snowbirds, the American sunbelt no longer shines as brightly as it used to.
Key Takeaways:
- Only 26% of Canadians plan to visit the US this winter (37% less than in 2024).
- Main reasons for cancellations include travel costs (41%), political tensions (40%), exchange rates (29%) and safety (20%).
- Europe, Mexico and the Caribbean are seeing growing popularity among retirees.
Source: Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada (THIA) Winter Smart Traveler Survey 2025
