Questions for Moving to VI

Olly: Welcome to the board! Yes, you are correct that it is difficult to find work unless you are actually here. On the other hand, it isn't difficult to find a starter job until you find something you really want. What is it that the two of you do? Some things will be a bit more difficult in July- teaching, for example. Healthcare is always open.

You will need enough money to keep yourself afloat for a few months. Most landlords request first, last and damage deposit which can take a bite out of your savings. Keep enough for a ticket home, just in case. Good luck! 😀

It's also very difficult to get around without a car. Public transportation is unreliable and taxis charge per person. A 1BR will cost you at least $1K/month, so minimum $3K upfront to move in plus utilities if not included in the rent. Internet, cable/satellite and electric company hookups if not included. Money to keep you going until you find a job and a car. The recommended minimum base is $10K for startup expenses and that will go quickly.

Have you been here before? A PMV (pre move visit) is highly recommended.

Hopefully you've read all the information in the drop-down menus top of this page which contain a huge amount of helpful information. Good luck!

I don't want to sound mean, but I think the moderator needs to create a First in line post that has the title, Thinking of moving down to the USVI....Please read.
He can keep the red flag up as it is always new and in the body it can have the basics of:

Read all of the drop down boxes
Have 5-10,000 saved up for an apartment, security and flight back home.
Do a PMV first.
Search First, as many topics have been discussed. (Although the search function is not always perfect)
and whatever else they may need to briefly know (possible links to good topics ie. which island, do I need transportation, etc)

I read this forum for 6 months before posting and tried to ask questions, I could not find answers for. Although if we did do this, we would have half the posts. LOL

Everyone on here is great, and you get so many opinions which is great as well, but take it all in and go down and check it for yourself. Don't make it a vacation, but a research mission by talking to as many people on the island as possible. That's where you will get the most information possible.

I don't want to sound mean, but I think the moderator needs to create a First in line post that has the title, Thinking of moving down to the USVI....Please read.

It's right there, the first thread.

It is but it isn't, plus the permanent thread should be titled as I said above, as I think more people would read it. Just my 2 cents. The forum is great and I have learned a lot about the VI. Many of us in the states, have little to no idea about your awesome islands even with the good and the bad that each possess. I had a great time there last year and will be coming again this March to enjoy some sun and exploration. It was great getting lost while driving around, got to see so much more of STX than I ever would have if I just stayed on the main roads. The people are just amazing. Although I did feel a little unsafe when I was in Fredriksted after my night dive and the guy that was walking towards me veered in my same direction as I changed course to go to my vehicle. But otherwise felt safe the rest of my time there.

It is but it isn't, plus the permanent thread should be titled as I said above, as I think more people would read it.

Well you know what the old adage says about leading a horse to water ... 😀 If you think the heading should be changed then contact "Islander" the site administrator.

What are your fields? That could help with informing you how hard it would be to get a job.

Good day ollyjenkins - are you hoping to find work in your current field, or just work in general? Many people here leave their previous careers behind to work in food service or on the water. If you can build things, fix things, or tend bar, you can easily make a good living here. Summertime is a slower time to find work, but easier to find a place to live. Read lots and keep us posted!

Bring 20K and a small SUV with a good transmission and you'll be just fine. If your girl wont leave the house without full face makeup or you have to have designer nikes - don't move here 🙂 That about sums it up.

... Oh and if you don't like mold or bugs don't move here. Welcome! 😉

I think I am going to make that my signature lol.