New data: Florida a Top 15 state for exchanging partners for sex, or 'swinging'

Swinging, or wife-swapping as it used to be called, is the practice of exchanging partners for sex. It's not entirely clear how many Americans partake in swinging, as some estimates say 2% or less while others state 15% of U.S. couples have tried it once in their married lives.

New search data reveals the top 15 states most interested in a swinger lifestyle by recording how often each state looked up terms like "swing lifestyle," "wife swapping," and "sex parties."

So where did Florida rank? Here's what to know about swinging in the Sunshine State.

Is swinging popular in Florida?

According to the study, Florida searched for swinger terms for a monthly volume of 453 per 100,000 people.

Florida's volume of swinger searches landed it the number 12 ranking for swinging states, tied with Rhode Island.

There's a few swinging clubs and resorts in Florida that exist to provide swingers with a safe space to mingle and make new connections.

Is swinging popular in The Villages?

Rumors about swinging in Florida retirement community the Villages have been swirling for years.

In 2023, a TikTok about how people who live in The Villages show their sexual preferences with color-coded loofahs on their cars went viral. However, a blogger who lives within the Villages says the loofahs are used for a far-less sexy reason: They help residents find their cars.

People who live in The Villages certainly aren't celibate though. One couple were caught getting it on at 8:30 a.m. on a metal utility box. Another pair were arrested for having sex in a town square pavilion that's typically used for political speeches.

Where is swinging popular in the U.S.?

Here's the top 15 states ranked by monthly average search volume for a swinger lifestyle per 100,000 people.

1. Pennsylvania: 660 per 100k
2. New York: 590
3. Delaware: 537
4. Michigan: 526
5. New Jersey: 512
6. Virginia: 501
7. North Carolina: 498
8. South Carolina: 481
9. Nevada: 460
10. Ohio: 459
11. Maryland: 458
12. Florida: 453
13. Rhode Island: 453
14. Connecticut: 439
15. Tennessee: 437

How do you tell if someone is a swinger?

There's a few symbols within the swinging community to spot if someone is a swinger. Here's what to look for according to sex education expert Amy Nguyen.

• Pink flamingo, garden gnome, or Pampas grass in the front lawn
• Upside down pineapple displayed in front yard, patio, or mailbox
• Black ring on the right hand
• Large mirrors in the home
• Hot tub in the backyard

While these things may be common symbols of swinging, they don't always indicate someone is into the swinger lifestyle.

Why do married couples swing?

Sex experts say swinging can strengthen certain relationships and actually decrease risk of divorce. Communication is a big part of swinging, which can lead to healthier relationships.

Another reason swinging is popular is because some couples feel monogamy puts too much pressure on one partner to meet all of the other's needs.