St. Thomas or St. Croix??

I prefer STX over STT because STX is bigger and less crowded with people and tourists and traffic. Housing and gasoline are cheaper on STX (maybe the rum too), but it's harder to find work. Crucians are pretty friendly and the drivers are courteous. I haven't spent enough time on STT to compare that aspect. STX has lots of beaches and "rainforest" and excellent scuba diving. There is always something to do here: restaurants everywhere, live music, festivals, jump-ups, hikes, botanical gardens, museums, and clubs of all types. Obviously, if you plan to visit other islands frequently, it's much easier from STT.

I think you can find cheap cars easily on either island.

Also, if nightlife is your thing, STX is pretty quiet. I know there are a few spots for the younger set, but they are few and far between. STX rolls up the streets by 10 pm.

I would be looking for a job in banking. Are there as many on STX as STT?

Personally, I prefer STT. I like being able to see dozens of other islands from my home and I enjoy going to those islands on easy day trips. STX is too far from other islands to do this easily.

Your age group and activity level - I would advise STT. Trips to the BVI etc - nightlife - much better fit.

Hello there. You had mentioned being 'outdoorsy'. If this translates to biking and hiking, perhaps STX would offer more in that arena, and less in the nightlife, so you might have to choose in terms of balance. There are an increacing number of financial institutions on the island, and although the streets roll up at 10 p.m., the bars are open until 4 a.m. (*please note that as a crippled older man, I don't drink or dance, so this 4 a.m. thing is only by report of tenants and friends who have rolled in at close to dawn). In that regard, I would imagine that being able to get to Christiansted and back would be important.

In terms of the financial institutions, they have primarily been located in C'sted, but more and more are providing branches in Fredericksted on the West end, which is truly beautiful. There are a few keys around here, however very quick travel to another island is not a possibility, and swimming I don't think would be a good idea for travel. There is a ferry (called I have heard the 'vomit comet' as it travels at high speed and is a bit bumpy), and puddle jumpers galore to get to STT, STJ and PR.

I hope this is of some help. I personally am not trying to sway you in any direction, but I do believe in getting an education, facts, and then making your decision which is quite an important one. I have chosen STX, however, the are many that would not be happy here. The reverse is true of any island.

What is important to understand is that each island is very, very different. Topographically, culturally, in terms of business, etc.

Best wishes in choosing well for you both,

Dan

I know mopeds are not realistic but what about STX?

Amy: I believe that the two campuses have different majors. For example, St Thomas has a Marine Science program, while St Croix has Agricultural Science (maybe named something different.) What are you planning on studying?

Well thank you all so much for the info! East Ender made the decision easy for us...they offer my major at St. Croix, but not my boyfriend's! So St. Thomas it is!! However, we'll HAVE to at least visit St. Croix...it sounds like a lot of fun!! Do you think buying an old "beater" car is worth it on St. Thomas? Or would we be okay just using public trans??

There are UVI students who depend on the safari and bus system as well as the largess of their fellow students. It will limit your movements somewhat, but heck, you only need to go to the library anyway! 😉

Are you kidding?!?!? St. Croix for sure. I moved here when I was 23, pretty blindly I might add, and now I am 27 and have had a great time in St. Croix. As far as jobs go,....answer me this.... Are you willing to work? Yes? Then you will have no problem. You will have to get used to "networking" and the best place, honestly, to network is at your local bar. I have had several well paying jobs since I have moved here and only once did I give out a resume! That is the benefit of "networking" you will meet people who will remember you the next time they talk to a friend who is in need of hiring someone dependable.

Keep yourself open to new opportunities, I used to work for House of Representatives before living here and I am now an assistant manager in the largest bookstore on island and I am absolutly in love with it. Does it pay for everything? Nope, so I learned very easily to become a bartender. Three credit cards and one student loan paid off later, I am so happy with my decision to come here.

My beef with St Thomas is that it is so hectic. Everyone lives on top of one another there and the traffic really sucks. Also if you like people constantly hawking you to buy something then don't go to certain beaches or to Charlotte Amalie, ever. The gas and food are more expensive and people (sorry guys) have to deal with so many tourists so they could be jerks sometimes.

As far as cost of living: When my fiance and I moved here we got a one bedroom furnished house up on Blue Mountain for $575, we didn't have to worry about water because there was a well on property. We always kept our ear out for a place with a view and between putting our name out there and meeting several people who became close friends we now have a beautiful spot above Cane Bay. On clear night we can see the lights on St. THomas and St. John and thank god we don't live there hahahah!! (St. John is extremely beautiful but pricey!!)

They are adding more majors to the St. Croix USVI all the time so don;t be afraid to check it out. Great times to come over to St. Croix are... The first Saturday in January, which is our Carnival!! Or the saturday closest to St. Patricks day for that parade (get your drink on seriously!) and Mardi Croix, closest to Fat Tuesday, on the North shore of St. Croix. When you do come, rent a car, the taxi system sucks here and its way cheaper to rent.

Good luck!

i haven't been to st. croix...but st. thomas and st. maarten...yes. my wife and i love st. thomas...it can be pricy and a little more busy at times...but you have some great beaches and are in proximity to some other great islands. .....and magen's bay....my god i could spend the rest of my life there floating on a raft and a drink in my hand!! we fly for free and continue to head back to the carribean as much as possible....i'd say st. thomas....it gets less busy in the off season......which in the u.s. is our summer.

Um, this is quite an old post - they may have already made their decision. Sometimes it helps to have a quick look at the date of posts that come up through searches etc. Cheers.

Jane,

It is an old post, but one that is near and dear to all of our hearts, and very appropriate for people considering moving here. Which island? I have lived on, and am familiar with, all; including the 4th VI, Water Island ( STJ and WI, anchored out on my boat ). I vote, wholeheartedly, St. Croix. My main reason is the people. There is a hugh difference in attitude just 35 miles south. I also enjoy the "flatter roads", spread out neighbors and the home grown tomatoes. I don't know much about UVI on either island, but checking available majors should be easy, if Amy is still interested.

Jaye