Extreme heat adaptation and relocation intentions among older in-migrants in U.S. coastal communities

As today’s older adults have progressed through the life course, shifting climatic conditions have increasingly exposed some to more extreme environmental contexts. In the U.S., it has long been common for older adults to relocate to southern cities in search of warmer weather, lower taxes, and reduced living costs. However, recent intensifying heat events may prompt some individuals to reconsider their relocation decisions. This raises important questions about how older adults are managing their increasing heat exposure and whether they are re-evaluating their residential choices in response. To investigate, we surveyed older, mainly domestic, in-migrants ( N = 100) residing in coastal Texas to examine their heat adaptation strategies and future residential intentions. Findings show that 62% of respondents reported experiencing heat stress, with symptoms localized in the home. Although most made behavioral adjustments, like altering travel patterns, clothing, and outdoor routines, 55% had no specific heat adaptation plans, and only 20% considered relocation. Binomial logistic regression revealed that relocation intentions were associated with perceived vulnerability and structural conditions than by immediate emotional stress. Specifically, private insurance (β = 2.85, p < 0.01), being uninsured (β = 3.80, p < 0.05), physical discomfort (β = 2.04, p < 0.05), education level (β = 0.56, p < 0.05), and medical costs (β = 1.92, p < 0.1) emerged as significant factors shaping relocation decisions to cooler climates. These results suggest rising costs associated with medical treatment during extreme heat waves may be significant push factors for this population.