How can I live in the U.S. Virgin Islands
These sections will give you an overview of what real life is like in the Virgin Islands. If you want more more in-depth information order the U.S. Virgin Islands Settlers Handbook.
AVAILABILITY OF GOODS
A popular question from Americans moving from the continental USA to the U.S. Virgin Islands concerns whether they will find familiar stores and brands; and whether stuff is available. The short answer is: a few U.S. stores are here; many stores carry U.S. branded goods; and we’ve got all the regular day to day.
COST OF LIVING
Using the approximate figures below you can compare your current cost of living expenses to what they might be if you were living in St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John or Water Island.
INFRASTRUCTURE
The infrastructure systems within the U.S.V.I are some of the best in the Caribbean. Roads are paved. Mail Service is provided by the federal postal system. Internet service and utilities are good. Banks are found throughout the islands. Police and fire fighting teams are available.
VIRGIN ISLANDS DEMOGRAPHICS
Nationality American Nativity Virgin Islander By Island: Crucian, St. Thomian, St. Johnian Language English is the main language. (Spanish is spoken by about 17% of the population. Other languages are spoken by 11% of the population.) Religion Baptist, Roman Catholic and Episcopalian are the largest denominations.
ISLAND LIVING
Life in the islands is slower then in the mainland. Many daily task and operations work on “Island Time” which means slowly and without haste. There is a large working class population here in the U.S.V.I, so weekdays are of course spent at perspective jobs. Jobs include almost all those found commonly in the mainland.
MEET THE ISLANDS
The U.S. Virgin Islands includes four main islands: St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John and Water Island. Each has its own personality; and there are differences between islands. This is a very brief introduction to the four islands.
SAFETY IN THE VIRGIN ISLANDS
Crime in the Virgin Islands statistically speaking is fairly high, particularly on St. Croix and St. Thomas. (Statistically meaning the number of crimes in comparison to the population and area size.) St. John is quiet with the exception of a few thefts of items left unattended in parked open cars or on the beach.
VIRGIN ISLANDS WEATHER
In the U.S. Virgin Islands there is one season, summer! Average air temperatures in a “winter” month like January; and a “summer” month like July; vary only by 5 or 6 degrees Fahrenheit. Air temperature all year round is typically in the low to mid-80s (27 to 29 Celsius).
