Thinking about moving to the Virgin Islands? Whether you’re seeking a fresh start, a new business opportunity, or simply an escape to paradise, the Virgin Islands offers a unique blend of Caribbean beauty and modern conveniences. However, moving to an island requires careful planning. Here’s everything you need to know before making the leap.
1. Why Move to the Virgin Islands?
The Virgin Islands offers an exceptional lifestyle with benefits that attract new residents every year:
Tropical Paradise
Enjoy year-round warm weather, breathtaking beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Whether you love swimming, sailing, or just relaxing by the shore, the Virgin Islands provide an unmatched island experience.
Business & Job Opportunities
The economy is primarily driven by tourism, real estate, and the service industry. Opportunities exist in:
• Hospitality & Tourism – Hotels, resorts, restaurants, and travel services.
• Finance & Offshore Banking – Particularly in the British Virgin Islands (BVI).
• Healthcare – Nurses, doctors, and wellness professionals are in demand.
• Remote Work – Many digital entrepreneurs and remote workers enjoy island life while working for companies in the U.S. or internationally.
Lifestyle & Culture
The islands have a rich history influenced by African, European, and Caribbean cultures. Festivals like Carnival bring communities together with music, food, and parades. The slower pace of life, often referred to as “island time,” is an adjustment but offers a more relaxed way of living.
No State Taxes (U.S. Virgin Islands)
U.S. Virgin Islands residents do not pay federal income tax, as the territory has its own tax system. However, you still file taxes locally. In the British Virgin Islands, there is no income tax, making it an attractive option for financial professionals.
2. Where to Live in the Virgin Islands
Each island offers a different lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular islands for relocation:
U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI)
• St. Thomas – The most developed island, with vibrant nightlife, shopping, and international connections via the Cyril E. King Airport (STT). Ideal for business professionals and those who enjoy a mix of city life and island beauty.
• St. John – The smallest of the three, with over 60% of the land protected as Virgin Islands National Park. It’s a great option for nature lovers, but housing can be expensive.
• St. Croix – The largest island, offering a slower pace of life, lower cost of living, and a strong local community. Known for historical sites and a growing expat population.
British Virgin Islands (BVI)
• Tortola – The business hub of BVI, known for its financial services and luxury real estate. A popular destination for yacht owners and entrepreneurs.
Virgin Gorda – Known for its exclusive resorts and the famous Baths, it’s ideal for those seeking a quiet, upscale lifestyle.
• Jost Van Dyke & Anegada – Smaller islands with a true “off-the-grid” experience, best suited for those looking to escape the hustle.
3. Cost of Living & Housing
The cost of living in the Virgin Islands can be high due to import costs, but it varies by island and lifestyle.
Housing & Rent
• Apartments & Condos: $1,200 - $3,500/month (varies by island and location).
• Single-Family Homes: Starting at $350,000+ for purchase.
• Luxury Villas: Available for $1M+ in premium locations.
Renting before buying is recommended, as each island has different neighborhood vibes.
Utilities & Internet
• Electricity: Higher than the U.S. mainland due to diesel-powered energy (budget $150-$400/month).
• Water: Some homes rely on rainwater collection (cisterns) rather than municipal water.
• Internet: Reliable, but speeds can be slower in rural areas. Fiber-optic options are improving.
Food & Groceries
• Imported food is expensive, but shopping at local farmers’ markets helps reduce costs.
• Restaurants can be pricey; expect to pay $15-$25 per meal at mid-range spots.
Transportation
• Owning a car is essential, as public transportation is limited.
• In the USVI, you drive on the left (though cars are U.S. models with left-side steering).
• Gas prices tend to be higher than the mainland U.S.
4. Work and Business Opportunities
The Virgin Islands offer various career and business opportunities. Key industries include:
Tourism & Hospitality
The largest employer in the region, with opportunities in hotels, resorts, restaurants, and excursion services.
Real Estate & Property Management
Many expats and investors buy vacation homes, creating a need for property managers and rental services.
Finance & Offshore Banking
BVI is a global hub for offshore banking, while the USVI has tax incentives for businesses.
Remote Work & Digital Nomads
With internet improving, many remote workers relocate for the lifestyle while keeping U.S. or international jobs.
5. Moving and Shipping Your Belongings
Bringing your belongings requires planning.
Shipping Household Goods
• Popular shipping companies: Crowley, Tropical Shipping, VI Cargo
• Container shipping is the best option for full household moves.
Bringing a Car
• Import duties apply (varies by island).
• Some islands require an inspection and registration process before driving.
6. Adjusting to Island Life
Hurricane Season (June - November)
The Virgin Islands are in the hurricane belt. Having a hurricane preparedness plan is a must.
Slower Pace of Life
• Businesses may take longer to complete tasks compared to mainland U.S.
• It’s common to experience delays in shipments, government processing, and services.
Community & Integration
• Many expats say the key to feeling at home is getting involved in the local community.
• Join local groups, volunteer, and attend cultural events to build connections.
7. Next Steps: Make Your Move a Reality
Moving Checklist:
✔ Research the island that fits your lifestyle
✔ Budget for cost of living & moving expenses
✔ Arrange housing (short-term or long-term rental)
✔ Research job or business opportunities
✔ Secure transportation (buy or ship a car)
✔ Prepare for hurricane season
✔ Connect with local communities before moving
Make Your Move to the Virgin Islands Seamless with Carty’s Trucking & Trash Removal
Moving to the Virgin Islands is an exciting journey, but it comes with a lot of logistics. That’s where we come in. At Carty’s Trucking, we help make your transition stress-free by handling the heavy lifting, so you can focus on settling into your new island life.
Reliable Moving & Hauling Services – Whether you’re shipping household goods, furniture, or construction materials, we’ve got you covered.
Trash & Debris Removal – Need help clearing out old items, packing materials, or unwanted debris after your move? We take care of it efficiently.
Local Expertise – We know the Virgin Islands inside and out, ensuring a smooth transition for new residents.
Let us handle the load so you can enjoy paradise! Contact us today for a free quote and expert assistance with your move.
