For decades, thousands of Canadians—often referred to as snowbirds—have flocked south during the winter months to enjoy warmer weather in U.S. destinations like Florida, Arizona, Texas, and California. However, a new survey shows a growing shift: more than half of Canadian snowbirds who own property in the U.S. are now considering selling their American homes.
The survey highlights several key reasons behind this trend. Rising property costs, changes in U.S. tax policies, and fluctuating currency exchange rates have made owning a second home south of the border less appealing for many Canadians. Additionally, evolving political climates and uncertainty around healthcare coverage have caused retirees to rethink their long-term plans.
Many snowbirds are planning to reinvest the money from their U.S. property sales back into Canada. Some prefer to downsize into more manageable housing, while others are exploring Canadian vacation properties that can offer seasonal comfort without the challenges of cross-border ownership.
Despite these shifts, the snowbird lifestyle is far from disappearing. Millions of Canadians still enjoy extended stays in warmer destinations during winter, whether through short-term rentals, timeshares, or seasonal travel packages. However, the trend of selling U.S. properties suggests that snowbirds are becoming more cautious and flexible—prioritizing financial security and lifestyle adaptability over traditional property ownership.
Experts believe this could reshape the U.S. real estate market in areas with high concentrations of Canadian homeowners. Communities in Florida and Arizona, in particular, may begin to feel the impact if large numbers of Canadian sellers list their homes in the coming years.
Ultimately, while Canadian snowbirds will likely continue chasing the sun each winter, their approach is evolving—moving away from permanent U.S. property ownership and toward more cost-effective, adaptable solutions.
