Big drop in snowbirds heading to U.S. as many look overseas instead

November 17, 2025

RED FM News Desk

A new survey finds that fewer snowbirds (Canadians who spend at least a month in a warmer location during winter) are planning to flock to the United States this winter, with many choosing to fly overseas instead.

A poll from Snowbird Advisor shows a 15% drop in the number of respondents who intend to head stateside this year. Meanwhile, the number of snowbirds planning travel to Mexico, Spain, or other sun-splashed spots has nearly doubled.

However, Snowbird Advisor Insurance president Stephen Fine notes that some 70% of the 4,000 survey respondents still aim to go to the U.S., drawn back by property ownership, friends, and family.

Experts say Canadians’ growing aversion to America stems from a mix of factors including political tensions over U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs, fear of potential treatment at the border, and a lopsided exchange rate, with the Canadian dollar being low against the U.S. dollar.