Cost of living in Saint Croix (St. Croix)
Saint Croix, part of the US Virgin Islands, offers a unique blend of Caribbean charm and American influence. Understanding the cost of living here is crucial for anyone considering relocation or extended stay.
The island's cost of living encompasses various aspects such as dining, groceries, transportation, housing, and utilities, each contributing to the overall expenses one might expect.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $32.5 on average, with a range between $15 and $50.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $140, with prices ranging from $90 to $150.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $9.5, with a range between $9 and $10.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $3 to $8, imported beer $4 to $10, cappuccino $7 to $8, and Coke/Pepsi $2.5 to $4.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $1.85 and $4 per liter, averaging $3.14.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $4.96 and $7, with an average price of $5.67.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $4.5 to $10, averaging $7.26.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $4.39 to $11.02 per kg, while oranges average $4.39 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes average $3.73 per kg, and lettuce costs $2.99 to $5.99 per head.
Transportation
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $1 and $1.45 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares cost $1.55 per km, with an hourly waiting charge of $15.
- Car Purchase - A new Volkswagen Golf costs around $35,000, while a Toyota Corolla is priced at $45,000.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1100 to $2500, averaging $1700.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $899 to $1500, averaging $1199.5.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $2800.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $3500.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $256.18 and $400, averaging $328.09.
- Internet - Internet services range from $90 to $105, with an average cost of $97.5.
Cost of Living Data
Restaurants
Restaurants
Markets
Markets
Transportation
Transportation
Rent Per Month
Rent Per Month
Utilities (Monthly)
Utilities (Monthly)
Sports And Leisure
Sports And Leisure
Clothing And Shoes
Clothing And Shoes
Salaries And Financing
Salaries And Financing
Childcare
Childcare
"Key Takeaways"
Saint Croix presents a relatively high cost of living, particularly in dining and housing. The island's unique location and lifestyle contribute to these expenses.
Potential residents should budget carefully for utilities and groceries, which can also be on the higher side compared to mainland US standards.
Transportation costs are moderate, with gasoline prices being a significant factor for those who drive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, living in Saint Croix offers a blend of island life with the conveniences of US territory, but it comes with a higher cost of living.
Prospective residents should weigh the benefits of the lifestyle against the financial demands, particularly in housing and dining.
Overall, Saint Croix is ideal for those who value its unique cultural and natural offerings and are prepared for the associated costs.