Escaping the Snow: Where Chicago Homeowners Are Heading and What to Know Before Moving
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Elite Moving & Storage crew member handling a large wrapped household item beside a branded moving truck during a snowy residential move in the Chicago area. Professional winter movers providing local moving and furniture transportation services. |
By November, Chicago homeowners know what to expect. The days get shorter, temperatures start dropping, and conversations about spending winter somewhere warmer become a little more serious.
For some people, that means planning a permanent move. Others are considering a seasonal home, spending a few months somewhere warm, or retiring to a place where they can enjoy more time outdoors.
At Elite Moving & Storage, warmer destinations are a familiar topic in conversations about long-distance relocation. Florida, Texas, Arizona, Tennessee, and the Carolinas offer different possibilities for homeowners looking for a change.
National population and migration research provides some useful context. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2025 population estimates, several southern states continue to experience population growth. The Census Bureau's state-to-state migration research also helps explain how Americans are changing where they live.
These figures don't tell us exactly how many Chicago homeowners are moving specifically to escape winter. They do, however, highlight destinations worth exploring for anyone interested in warmer-weather living.
Arizona: Sunshine Without the Humidity
For people who prefer dry weather, Arizona offers another option.
Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tucson are known for sunny winters, desert landscapes, golf courses, and outdoor recreation.
Arizona added approximately 67,000 residents between July 2024 and July 2025, according to Census Bureau estimates.
The biggest consideration for Chicago homeowners is the summer climate. While winter temperatures can be comfortable in the lower desert, summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F.
That's why seasonal living may be appealing to homeowners who enjoy Arizona's winters but aren't ready for year-round desert living.
If you're considering moving from Chicago to Arizona, visiting during both winter and summer can help you decide whether the climate is a good fit.
Florida: For Homeowners Who Want a Warmer Winter
Florida remains one of the most recognizable destinations for people interested in escaping northern winters.
Sarasota, Naples, Tampa, Fort Myers, and Orlando offer a variety of lifestyles. Some homeowners are drawn to coastal communities, while others prefer suburban neighborhoods, golf communities, or larger cities with plenty of activities.
The Census Bureau estimated that Florida's population increased by approximately 197,000 residents between July 2024 and July 2025. Population growth alone doesn't explain why people choose Florida, but it demonstrates the state's continuing appeal as a place to live.
For Chicago homeowners, Florida offers opportunities to spend more time outdoors during months when Illinois is experiencing freezing temperatures.
Before purchasing property, however, it's important to research homeowners insurance, flood risks, hurricane exposure, and association fees.
Some homeowners choose to rent for a winter season before committing to a permanent move. Spending several months in a community can help you understand whether the lifestyle is right for you.
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| Two Elite Moving & Storage branded trucks pictured on a downtown Tampa, Florida, street. The trucks advertise local moving, long-distance relocation, packing, and storage services. |
The Carolinas: Milder Winters With Four Seasons
Not everyone wants to trade Chicago's winters for year-round heat.
North Carolina and South Carolina offer homeowners the possibility of a milder climate while still experiencing seasonal changes.
Charlotte and Raleigh provide metropolitan employment opportunities and established suburbs. Charleston, Greenville, and Myrtle Beach offer options ranging from historic neighborhoods to coastal communities.
According to the Census Bureau, South Carolina had the nation's highest percentage population growth between July 2024 and July 2025, while North Carolina also experienced substantial growth.
For homeowners who enjoy autumn weather and occasional cooler days but would prefer shorter winters, these states may be worth considering.
However, winter storms can still occur, and coastal areas require additional research into flooding and hurricane risks.
Texas: Warmer Weather With Big-City Options
Texas may appeal to Chicago homeowners who enjoy metropolitan living but would prefer generally milder winters.
Dallas, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio offer different combinations of employment opportunities, suburban communities, entertainment, and outdoor activities.
Texas recorded the largest numerical population increase among U.S. states between July 2024 and July 2025, according to Census Bureau estimates.
For someone moving from Chicago, the biggest adjustment may be summer weather rather than winter.
Texas can experience prolonged periods of heat, while occasional winter storms can still bring freezing temperatures.
Although the state has no individual income tax, property taxes, insurance, and utility costs should be part of any financial comparison.
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Elite Moving & Storage long-distance moving truck pictured in downtown Austin, Texas, with the Texas State Capitol building visible in the background. The branded truck highlights interstate moving, cross-country relocation, packing, and storage services for customers moving from Chicago to Texas. |
Tennessee: A Little Warmer and Closer to the Midwest
For homeowners who want milder winters without moving quite as far from Chicago, Tennessee offers several possibilities.
Nashville provides a large metropolitan environment, while Knoxville and Chattanooga appeal to people interested in mountain scenery, outdoor recreation, and smaller-city living.
Tennessee's population increased by approximately 64,000 residents between July 2024 and July 2025, according to Census Bureau estimates.
Winters are generally less severe than those in northern Illinois, although snow, ice, and freezing temperatures remain possible.
For families who want to stay within a more manageable distance of relatives and friends in Chicago, Tennessee may be an option worth exploring.
What Are Homeowners Doing Before Making the Move?
One of the smartest things homeowners can do is spend time in a destination before committing to it.
A vacation gives you a glimpse of a place, but everyday life can feel very different. Renting for a month or a season allows you to experience the neighborhoods, local amenities, healthcare options, and overall lifestyle.
Some homeowners choose to spend winters in a warmer state while keeping their primary residence in Chicago. Others decide to downsize, sell their current home, or relocate permanently.
Before making that decision, compare housing costs, property taxes, insurance, utilities, and healthcare expenses. A warmer climate doesn't always mean a lower cost of living.
It's also worth considering which furniture and belongings you'll need in your new home. Selling, donating, or storing items you no longer use can make the transition easier.
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| Elite Moving & Storage professional movers working at the rear liftgate of a branded moving truck outside a residential home. Packed moving boxes are visible inside the truck during a household relocation. |
Finding the Right Place for Your Next Chapter
Whether it's Florida's beaches, Arizona's sunshine, or the milder seasons of the Carolinas and Tennessee, homeowners have plenty of options for enjoying a warmer climate.
National population trends show continued growth in several southern states, but choosing where to live comes down to personal priorities, family, finances, and lifestyle.
At Elite Moving & Storage, we've helped Chicago-area homeowners relocate throughout the country for nearly two decades. Whether you're moving permanently or planning a seasonal transition, we're here to help with long-distance moving, professional packing, and storage.
Elite Moving & Storage
Lincolnwood, Illinois
Phone: 847-675-8701
Website: https://www.elitemover.com/
Sources and Further Reading
1. U.S. Census Bureau — Population Growth Slows in 2025 (January 2026)
Official state population estimates documenting recent growth in Florida, Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Arizona, and Tennessee.
https://www.census.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2026/population-growth-slows.html
2. U.S. Census Bureau — State-to-State Migration Flows
American Community Survey data showing movement between U.S. states. Useful for understanding interstate migration without assuming that every move is related to climate.
3. NOAA — U.S. Climate Normals
Historical climate information homeowners can use to compare average temperatures and seasonal conditions between Chicago and potential destinations.
https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/products/land-based-station/us-climate-normals
Research note: The population figures cited above describe overall population changes, including births, deaths, and migration. They should not be interpreted as counts of specifically Chicago residents relocating south or as proof that winter weather caused those moves.
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