These are the best hidden-gem U.S. cities for snowbirds

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It’s that time of year where those dreading the cold months start dreaming of travelling to places where it always feels like summer.

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While a large number snowbirds continue to call Florida their home away from home during the winter, many may find the popular destination overcrowded and overwhelming.

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Architectural Digest looked at cities across the United States — based on factors such as housing and lodging availability, home sale prices, and winter weather conditions — and averaged each score out of 100 points.

Based on that research, the publication offered a list of hidden gems for snowbirds.

New Orleans, La.

It shouldn’t be surprising that the popular destination would top on the list. New Orleans was ranked No. 1 overall, securing a score of 86.9 out of 100, as well as for its housing and lodging availability.

The city placed third for its activities, entertainment and dining options, thanks to its blend of French, Spanish and African cultural heritage and cuisine. It simply can’t be beat.

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Naples, Fla.

The southwest Florida city that sits on the Gulf of Mexico scored 73.6 to come in second.

It’s known for beaches, golf courses and high-end shopping, giving the upscale snowbirds a more extravagant sun-soaked getaway.

There is an abundance of beautiful Floridian homes available and with its 10th-place ranking in the weather category, it really is paradise.

Honolulu, Hawaii

The Aloha State boasts picture-perfect beaches, swaying palm trees and a chill vibe that whispers “relax” like no other. Hawaii’s capital, located on the southern shore of the island of Oahu, is the perfect blend of natural wonder and urban sophistication.

With an overall score of 69.7, it’s no surprise Honolulu ranked third overall.

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But the city comes second when it comes to activities and dining and while it comes in a respectable eighth place in the housing and lodging availability department, a spectacular island home for the winter shouldn’t be too difficult to find.

Palm Springs, Calif.

In fourth place, with a score of 66.8, is Palm Springs, a desert oasis that boasts mid-century-modern charm in a tranquil setting.

Granted, it’s not cheap (just ask Kim Kardashian, who recently purchased a home in Palm Springs) but despite its property costs and weather rankings (48th and 43rd, respectively), it’s an incredible place to escape winter with an abundance of housing, dining and activity options.

Gilbert, Ariz.

Located just east of Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa, but still part of the Greater Phoenix area, this small town is truly a hidden gem.

While it placed fifth with a score of 65.9, and has a less-than-stellar ranking of 38th as far as housing and lodging availability goes, the town once known as the “Hay Shipping Capital of the World” came in at No. 1 in activities and dining.

Sedona, Ariz.; Baton Rouge, La.; Yuma, Ariz.; Corpus Christi, Texas; and Mobile, Ala., rounded out the top-10 list.

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