local natives?

Ronnie does.

my husband and I along with our five year old son want to relocate to Stx from Atlanta. I have read posts from many locals who have relocated to the VI that it is very expensive to move to the islands. I feel discouraged that if one is not rich or/and a snow bird that it is all but impossible for a working class family like us to relocate.

I would like to know how local natives do it. I imagine that many are not exactly living a life of luxury but like us are working class. What are your experiences of living like? I would also like to know about the public schools from another perspective. What is your view of the educational system? We will not be able to afford private schools on the islands.

Thanks for all your helpful feedback.

Jen

From what I have heard, no first hand experience, you would be very disapointed in the public school system. Maybe in a couple of years with the new governor?:)

Jenny,

Teresa, a regular poster on this board, recently moved from STT to Atlanta. She has school aged children and if you do a search for her posts, I think you will find a lot of good answers to many of your questions.

Hope this helps a little bit :)!
Mell

I think transplanting from the mainland with a small child without a money cushion or relatives and family on the island would be impossible. The potential costs are much greater than one might think. you have to be able to factor flights back to the mainland into your budget - for health reasons or family reasons. Health insurance is a must on the islands.
Private school or home schooling may well be necessary. There goes one income.
Groceries/cost of living are higher in general than the States. Rent is fairly high as well.
The 'locals' manage by pooling family resources, some have owned homes for many years or have built slowly on family land. Government jobs have healthcare, Hovensa pays well. You have to be very resourceful and creative to live on a rock in the middle of the beautiful blue!
Have you looked into jobs etc in your field(s)?