Employment can be a significant problem when you start living in St. Thomas. If you are ready to start living in St. Thomas, then the prices are not going to be as high as you think to get a decent place. Baseball is the most popular game played on the island, but there are other sports teams organized by the schools that offer competitive play. Renting is a positive experience in St. Thomas. The water is usually very calm which makes it perfect for small children. Relocation. St Thomas, 00802 United States Virgin Islands. The Virgin Islands also have a number of historical sites, including fortifications, churches, and plantations. My family and I arrived on St. Thomas from Massachusetts in 2003. , It is our pleasure to recommend Barbara Birt as a real estate agent for any individual or family searching for the ideal home or desiring to sell their home. gives you all the answers. NPR) WTJX-TV Channel 12 invites everybody, everywhere to join its live coverage of the St. Thomas Carnival parades. As part of the Virgin Islands under the control of the United States, you can move here with minimal headaches. Hiking In St. Thomas: 5 Amazing Trails You Shouldn't Miss - Jessie on a Artwork needs to be well framed as the humidity and the salt can take a toll. St. Thomas Source. Most neighbors come out to help one another get ready, which helps to bring the community together. 15 & 15B&D Shoys (The) EA, St. Croix, VI 00820, 4 Rem Lovenlund GNS, St. Thomas, VI 00802, 15 B&D Shoys (The) EA, St. Croix, VI 00820, 15 & 18-1 Bellevue FB, St. Thomas, VI 00802, 1&1-F Morningstar QU, St. Croix, VI 00820, 15-51-D Frenchman Bay FB, St. Thomas, VI 00802. If youre planning on visiting the US Virgin Islands, you may be wondering if its safe to drive. Over 70% of the land is set aside as a national preserve, which includes the beaches and underwater areas offshore in some regions. You will need to learn to love the cruise ships that stop by all year long. In terms of difficulty, it's an easy enough trail that hikers of all skill levels can enjoy it. Most importantly, the U.S. Virgin Islands, which There are relatively few jobs available on St. Thomas. There are a few things to consider when choosing for yourself whether you feel safe visiting USVI. The high crime rate is due to a number of factors, including the high population density. It was purchased in 1917 for $25 million in gold from Denmark, and the capital is called Charlotte Amalie in honor of the wife of King Christian V of Denmark. The Virgin Islands National Park on St. John is a hiker's paradise, with 20-plus trails ranging from flat and short to challenging all with views of blue bays and green islands. 8. Best Places To Eat On St. Thomas. Ive lived in several parts of St Thomas, so Im a good one to consult about being an East-Ender or a Northsider, the West End or the Southside. Feel free to browse our website for more content on the St Thomas and the Caribbean by using the search bar located at the top of this page. There are spectacular diving and snorkeling opportunities on all of the islands. WTJX-TV Channel 12 invites everybody, everywhere to join its live coverage of the St. Thomas Carnival parades. Most places will accept credit cards. See sights that can only be reached on foot, most notably ancient rock carvings called petroglyphs. These were descendants . When dealing with certain companies, there are restrictions on what you can ship to the island. Unless you secure a job before making your move here, you may need to dip into your savings quite a bit to make ends meet at first. The traffic can be terrible when living in the Virgin Islands. $2,268. That means you will receive protection via the criminal laws of the United States. The cost of living is higher in St John vs St Thomas and St Croix and it also has the lowest population. Nevertheless, USPS treats St Thomas as a US territory. There are scouting troops available for the boys and girls. African Diaspora in the Virgin Islands - National Park Service Most Virgin Islanders are warm and accepting if you stay committed to the community and plan to live on the islands full time. . Best beach day ever. Some people are sensitive or prefer not to drink tap water anywhere. You will have a drug issue and some poverty issues to balance. You can also find family-friendly stuff at the best local events, like the annual chili cook off and the Carnival celebration. For Rent - Condo. Another well-loved beach on the island is Coki beach. Otherwise, you can join the millions of people like me that have fallen in love with the beauty of the US Virgin Islands! I can be of assistance. You need some cash to make the move to the Virgin Islands. St Croix is the largest and best-known of the US Virgin Islands, loved for its rich history, abundant coastline, and authentic local cuisine. If you are building your house in St. Thomas, an estimated 10 percent of the building cost may go toward a cistern the bigger the better. If youre worried about the high crime rate, you can head to St John, the safest of the three territories. Alternatively Drakes seat offers an amazing view of Magens Bay, the other US Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands to the East. (Travel Guide)Continue, Read More What Is Rainy Season In Aruba? Copyright 2023 Barbara Birt. The hotels available on the island are all in safe areas. Thats about 20% cheaper than what you will find on St. John. Rock City, musical duo also known as R. City and Planet VI; formed 2003 in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Theron Thomas, member of musical duo Rock City; Nurses. Although there are some rightful concerns about crime in the USVI, St. Thomas still provides an excellent environment for raising your kids. If the business wants to get their expected tax break, then they must hire a specific percentage of workers that have been residents for a minimum of 12 months. In fact, almost all crime is among the local population. On the other hand, the cons of living in St Thomas are frequent power outages, the threat of natural disasters, limited access to the specialized products and traffic congestion. 265-1 Hospital Ground New Unit Lower. I have recently completed an informative course by cruise specialist, Emma Cruises which you should check out titled How To Cruise For Less. African Diaspora in the Virgin Islands. The isolation of St. Thomas is due to the expensive nature of arriving there in the first place. $3,200,000. Barbara Birt brings you the best of island living, from US Virgin Islands real estate to stunning beaches. Nevertheless, if you are taller, shorter or in need of specialized products you may find it difficult finding what you require on island. Before you pack your bags and board the first plane to the USVI, here are some of the most important things you need to know about moving here. Virgin Island Housing Authority - Idealist Do you live in St Thomas? The unemployment rate typically hovers around 10% in any given year. There are three areas on the island where you can join a ferry. 1. First, youll want to keep an eye on the weather and be aware of any potential storms or hurricanes that could be headed for the area. Jews from Denmark first arrived on the white beaches of what is now St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islandsa tiny speck off the coast of Puerto Ricoin the mid-17 th century. After visiting all of the Virgin Islands, I can say that I, personally, feel safe in the Virgin Islands. Overall, yes! combination wedding/honeymoon. The water is safe to drink in USVI. The U.S. wanted to maintain control over the Caribbean region during World War I, and these islands held strategic value. (Travel Guide), What Is Rainy Season In Aruba? Cruise Ship Schedule for May 2023 | St. Croix Source Saint Thomas ( Danish: Sankt Thomas) is one of the Virgin Islands in the Caribbean Sea, one of the three largest of the United States Virgin Islands (USVI), an unincorporated territory of the United States. St. Thomas and its nearby neighbor St. John, lay between the Atlantic and the Caribbean. In the United States Virgin Islands, English is the dominant language. Cisterns and roofs? St. John Source. As for drinking the water, many of us have ultraviolet filtration systems on our water supply to make the water potable. According to The St Thomas Source, in an article published February 17th, 2021, there was a marked increase in crime on the island during the pandemic. Hurricanes can be a significant problem for the USVI. There are relatively few adjustments that youll need to make with your lifestyle when you decide to start living in St. Thomas. The food of the U.S. Virgin Islands is a result of history and, as such . In addition, residents of the Virgin Islands are US citizens and have all of the same rights and privileges as other American citizens. She is more interested in the right home for your family than the commission, which speaks volumes about her professionalism and dedication. When comparing the US Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands, it really depends on what you want in a vacation. Lastly, customs and licensing can take some time, especially if your vehicle was assembled in Canada. International brands such as Kmart, Walgreens and Home Depot all have outlets available on the island. the unique underwater world. Guide to St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands Leave The Map You wont have congressional representation that can vote either despite the obligations to pay into the Social Security program and pay federal taxes. And whether there are millions or singles in your pocket, we all wind up shopping at K-Mart, and we tend to drive cars that inevitably sport some dings. Food Prices in St Thomas, Us Virgin Islands. Then, you will need your passport, and to go through customs as well. As a first time home buyer, Barbara took the time and extra effort to guide me through every aspect of the home buying process. the Caribbean. #3 Magens Bay - Best Area on St Thomas for Families. This assumes a $72,000 annual salary and a 2 Bedroom Apt. St. Thomas serves as the capital of the USVI. Yes, the US Virgin Islands are safe for not just visitors, but the many locals that live there as well! Because St. Thomas is not part of a state, then your legal residence there will disqualify you from voting for a presidential ticket. In terms of vacationing in USVI, Id definitely suggest planning a trip ASAP! You might be having a terrible day, but the place you call home is still incredibly beautiful. Residents of the Virgin Islands are US citizens and have all of the same rights and privileges as other American citizens. (Hold on to your hat - we even have a bowling alley. The beach area has several amenities which make it perfect for entertainment including tables, bathrooms and lifeguards. In terms of living in the Virgin Islands, its always important to do your own research and know where is safe to live and where is not. The Virgin Islands tax program is one of the most competitive tax benefits packages in the world. 1. St. Thomas For those who qualify, this can result in up to a 90% reduction in income taxesand a 100% exemption on property taxes. 2. St. Thomas is located in the Lesser Antilles, 1,600 miles south, south east of New York City; 1,100 east, southeast of Miami; 70 miles of San Juan. About Us. Health services are more extensive in the U.S. than in the British islands. You will lose the right to vote in presidential elections. 4. The pros of living in St Thomas are that the island safe, has easy access to international cities and amazing beaches. USVI Income Taxes - US Virgin Islands Virgin Islands Critters - Snakes & Spiders - Virgin Islands informal reception. Unlike in the mainland US where water usually comes from rivers, lakes, and streams that feed a public water system, rainwater is the resource on St. Thomas. 2. Any leaks? Required fields are marked *Comment *Name * Email * Website Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Whether youre looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, St. Thomas has everything you need. You will discover that living on the Virgin Islands means being self-sufficient. It can be exasperating at times, but living here is one of the most magical experiences you can find in life. Auto, plus McDonald's, Wendy's and Pizza Hut. No Pressure. of Prepaid Mobile Tariff Local (No Discounts or Plans), Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL), Preschool (or Kindergarten), Full Day, Private, Monthly for 1 Child, International Primary School, Yearly for 1 Child, 1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H&M, ), Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment in City Centre, Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre, Mortgage Interest Rate in Percentages (%), Yearly, for 20 Years Fixed-Rate. That means you can have a say in who becomes governor over the territory. STT Board of Realtors. Hurricane season in the Virgin Islands begins in June and ends in November every year. 3. Get a breakdown of food, housing, transportation, and health care cost. Cost of Living in U.S. Virgin Islands - 2023 prices. If you live in the U.S. Virgin Islands, then you are going to have a governor that oversees the administrative tasks of being a territory. Are the virgin Islands safe to visit during hurricane season? Snorkel St. John Tour from Sapphire and Margaritaville. Downed powerlines, felled trees, and general havoc occur whenever one blows through. If youre booking a vacation rental in St Croix, make sure its in a secure neighborhood, particularly away from the affordable housing area where the local crime tends to increase. Below are the tax rates by property type. This makes it one of the safest places to live and visit in the USVI. The pros of living in St Thomas are its low crime rate, stable currency, beautiful natural scenery and incredible beaches. St John is the least populated and has the lowest crime rate in the US Virgin Islands. Tourism is the primary industry on St. Thomas, with over 2 million visitors stopping by the entire USVI chain annually Over 50% of those tourists come through the capital of the island, Charlotte Amalie, come to tour the towns and enjoy duty-free shopping. US Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands. 509.2/km 2 (1318.8/sq mi) Map of U.S. Virgin Islands. Youre just not going to be living in a state unless the USVI make an effort for statehood that Congress approves in the future. A 3-bedroom house in a good neighborhood on the island will go for about $250,000, and that usually includes a view of the water. The three main islands, St Croix, St John, and St Thomas are surrounded by a variety of Caribbean islands and cays like the British Virgin Islands and Anguilla. Many of the islands are free from light sources at night too, which means you can do some fantastic stargazing. Then you can purchase new or used goods once you make it to the island. It gets hot on the islands most of the year, with temperatures in the 80s almost all year long. This St. Thomas hiking trail is pretty basic and can be summed up as a rugged road with hills that offer some lovely views of Hull Bay itself. There is less availability for goods and services. Life is slower and more peaceful when living in St. Thomas. Next thing to consideris your car fit to survive the driving conditions on the island, where most roads are steep and winding, and a lot of low riding cars bottom out? In addition there is a hospital on island that serves both St. Thomas and St. John residents. Do not leave valuables in plain sight, dont carry too much cash and keep your credit cards in hand, lock your hotel and car doors, and stay in groups, especially at night. There are three main islands in USVI St Thomas, St John, and St Croix. Population: 50,601. The currency in the Virgin Islands is the US dollar. Travel Tips & FAQ | US Virgin Islands - Visit USVI The roads are narrow and some of the mountains and hills around the island can be steep, but the islands also lack some basic infrastructure that can make the roads bumpy or have a lot of potholes. The St. Thomas Carnival is an annual post-Easter Carnival, usually held around April/May. USVI is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and sailing. Getting Around in 2023. The highest amount of rainfall usually falls between August and December, making prices drop significantly. I was trained at Columbia University in journalism, and I worked on St Thomas as a reporter for a few years, as well as for Antilles School as an administrator. On St. ThomasMore Info, So many wonderful events and things to do in St. Thomas. This city had 22 entries in the past 12 months by 6 different contributors. You might want a birth certificate or a valid drivers license too. Not to mention you will need it if you decide to travel to the neighboring British Virgin Islands while living here. Top 10 Facts about Living Conditions in the Virgin Islands You will also be taxed on your global income not just what you earn from your work on the island. Thats why youll find those who arent involved in the hospitality arena tend to operate a side hustle as a way to make money. The pros and cons of living in St. Thomas present some challenges, but there are also some incredible rewards. 6 Bedrooms. Rule Two: Dont presume things will be logical (see rule one). 4. The beloved resort invites families, couples and adventure-seekers to encounter the beauty of the Virgin Islands in a new light. no estate or inheritance tax. U.S. cellular phone companies including AT&T, Sprint, Thats a definite advantage compared to St. John, where almost 70% of the island is a national park and most of the housing is in the structure of weekly villa rentals. Even when there are specials in place, a family of four can pay up to $3,000 just to arrive at the island. As long as youre prepared for some bad weather, visiting during hurricane season is safe and can be a great way to save money on your trip. I worked with her remotely, to sell my deceased Mother's condo. For more active beach goers there are sandy coves with activities like windsurfing and kayaking. Significant on-island employers are few. Contact Property. Youll rarely experience a day that dips below 75F, even during the rainy season or the winter months. The Virgin Islands give you an opportunity to start making new memories in one of the best places on Earth. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history. If thats the case, I carry around my Water-To-Go filtration system that filters that yuck out of unsafe drinking water. If you are contemplating traveling to St Thomas . Proximity to Virgin Islands National Park. Guided Food Tasting & Cultural Walking Tour Everything To Know About Moving to the Virgin Islands Check out our blog for more ideas on how to experience St. Thomas to the fullest. As long as theres not a hurricane, the only thing that will put a damper on your vacation is rain! There is Cowpet Bay East, Cowpet Bay West, Cowpet Beach Resort, also known as the Elysian, and finally there are the Anchorage Condominiums, all of which sit on Cowpet Bay.