Why 200,000 Michiganders Vanish Every Year

Although it's never clear when, why, or at what temperature the decisions are made, Michigan is on the cusp of losing (temporarily) a large chunk of its population. While some may stay longer than others, eventually bags will be packed, winter clothes shed, and the annual migration of Mitten State Snowbirds will begin.

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"Snowbird" is the term used to refer to Michigan residents who opt to leave during the state's most challenging (and seemingly longest) season. These typically older and wiser Michiganders get out of the state before the snow flies, though some may wait until after Christmas to make the trek to warmer areas.

How Big Is the Snowbird Migration?

According to Census data, Michigan loses nearly 2% of its 10.14 million residents to fairer climates each and every year. That's almost 200,000 people who aren't dealing with road salt, buried driveways, and snow boogers.

Top Winter Destinations for Michiganders

Destinations vary, but according to an MLive report, over 21,000 make a beeline south to Florida, while others may choose Arizona, South Carolina, Texas, or even Hawaii as their respite from Michigan's cold, dark, and snow-filled winters.

Residency Rules & Seasonal Disappearance

According to a 2024 report, WILX states that Michigan ranks 49th for growth among states. This partially explains why some people who live in Michigan more than six months a year (the threshold for residency) will “ghost it” during the harsher months.

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Who can blame the 2% who flee Michigan winters? If I could skip snowblowers, plows, and icy black ice, I would in a heartbeat. But, until the day when, and if, I hear the siren song of the Snowbird, I'll be here with the rest of us, digging our driveways out from the snow one shovel at a time.