Snowbirds Head to Southwest Florida, Giving Local Economy a Boost Before Peak Season

The first signs of winter visitors have hit Florida's southwest coast. Car carriers rolled down I-75 near Bonita Springs as September drew to a close.

A truck from Proficient Auto Transport cruised south just last week. This marks the start of the winter rush, weeks before the main wave of visitors floods the area.

Local shops are perking up as cash registers start to ring more often. "Woo hoo...survived another summer, time for biz to pick up," wrote Luxboutique_Naplesfl on The News-Press Instagram page, according to Naples Daily News.

Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) will soon have higher traffic. Restaurant wait times will stretch longer. Parking spots will grow scarce. The seasonal shift brings both benefits and challenges to year-round locals.

This October influx starts a three-month climb in visitor numbers. By January 2026, streets and shops will overflow with winter guests seeking warmth and sunshine.