Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the US Virgin Islands, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful harbors and rich history. Understanding the cost of living here is crucial for both potential residents and visitors.

This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses in Charlotte Amalie, including housing, dining, transportation, and more, to help you plan your budget effectively.

Cost of Living Summary

Dining and Restaurants

  • Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $30 on average.
  • Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $90, with prices ranging from $80 to $100.
  • Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $7.5, with a range between $5 and $10.
  • Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer is priced at $7, imported beer at $9, cappuccino at $6, and Coke/Pepsi ranges from $1.5 to $3.

Grocery Prices

  • Milk - Milk is priced between $1.85 and $3.7 per liter, averaging $2.77.
  • Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs $9 on average.
  • Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs average $7.

Transportation

  • Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced at $1.53 per liter.

Housing Costs

  • 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $2000.
  • 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $950.

Utilities

  • Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost $300 on average.
  • Internet - Internet services range from $107 to $125, with an average cost of $116.

Cost of Living Data

The following pricing data has been gathered from 9 user contributions, as of the most recent update in July, 2024.
Restaurants
Avg / Range
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
$30.00
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course
$90.00
McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal)
$7.50
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught)
$7.00
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)
$9.00
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle)
$2.25
Water (0.33 liter bottle)
$2.25
Cappuccino (regular)
$6.00
Markets
Avg / Range
Milk (regular), (1 liter)
$2.77
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)
$9.00
Eggs (regular) (12)
$7.00
Transportation
Avg / Range
Gasoline (1 liter)
$1.53
Rent Per Month
Avg / Range
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre
$2,000.00
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre
$950.00
Utilities (Monthly)
Avg / Range
Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for 85m2 Apartment
$300.00
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL)
$116.00
Salaries And Financing
Avg / Range
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax)
$3,440.00
Charlotte Amalie Cost of Living

"Key Takeaways"

Charlotte Amalie presents a relatively high cost of living, particularly in dining and housing. Meals at restaurants can be pricey, and rental costs in the city centre are significant.

Grocery prices are also on the higher side, with staples like bread and eggs costing more than in many other locations.

Transportation costs are moderate, with gasoline prices being a key factor to consider for those who drive.

Utilities and internet services are additional expenses that can add up, making budgeting essential for residents.

Conclusion

In conclusion, living in Charlotte Amalie requires careful financial planning due to its high cost of living. While the city offers a unique lifestyle with its scenic beauty and cultural richness, expenses such as dining, housing, and groceries are considerable.

Prospective residents should weigh these costs against the benefits of living in this picturesque Caribbean locale, ensuring they are prepared for the financial commitments involved.