12 Tips for Living in Christiansted, , US

By kakalee

An expat living in Christiansted on St. Croix talks about costly trips to the grocery store, beautiful public beaches, fun casinos, the local hospital and more.

Expat Life in Christiansted

It is nearly as simple for Americans to move here as to move anywhere on the mainland US because it is a US territory, thus no visa is needed. However there is a sizable minority of Europeans, especially Danish, the previous overlords of the island. I moved here because I lost both my FL and my Puerto Rico apts. in the same year and with winter coming I had to go someplace tropical.

Cost of Living in Christiansted, US

It is pretty absurd. Most things on the store shelves are 2 to 3 times costlier than stateside. Housing became scarce during the 2017 hurricane season and most functional units were rented to FEMA. Recently the oil refinery was reopened bringing in an influx of people who could afford rents nearly as high as FEMA paid, so rents are still nearly double what they were 2 years ago. A bargain in a nice area is $1300 for a one bedroom and $2300 for a 2 bedroom unit

Local Clubs and Organizations

I don't think there are clubs specifically for expats but Moms can get involves with PTSA, the public libraries, kids soccer teams, any of the various holiday parades, etc. Non profits include History, Culture and Tradition Foundation and several animal welfare groups. Just consult The Saint Croix Source online for the details to help you get involved.

International Schools in Christiansted

I keep reading that teachers qualified in English as a 2nd language are hard to find because of the of our high cost of living but there are a number of good pricey private schools and decent public schools.

Shopping in Christiansted

There are several good grocery stores, once you get over the sticker shock. There are a surprising number of jewelry stores as well as all tourist needs, but a specific hardware item (ie a bicycle spoke or motorcycle battery) can be hard to find.

Public Transportation

The public bus is not too reliable. It is usually not too hard to get a taxi. All are safe.

Climate

It is a tropical climate. It is windy most of the time making the temperatures seem cooler. It is not a great place to be during hurricane season in some years.

Restaurants and Nightlife

We have lots of restaurants of various ethnicities. There are 2 casinos and many bars and restaurants have entertainment.

What are local hospitals and emergency services like?

The island is small, so the hospital is close. I know people who have called an ambulance and it always came. The hospital is public but I often hear that it is pitiful.

Recreational Activities in Christiansted

We have many public beaches. There are 3 golf courses attached to resorts and at least 1 resort with a tennis court. The Nature Conservancy and The Botanical Gardens have good hiking.

Residency and Visa Requirements

US citizens have no visa requirements. Others need passports, tourist visas or work visas.

Crime in Christiansted, US

Theft and car break ins are not uncommon. Looking too rich may be unwise.