Housing 411
Where should I live on st john?
The two main towns are Cruz Bay and Coral Bay. Their are other neighborhoods that you will find housing. If your new to the island I would recommend trying to find a place in Cruz Bay. Despite what people say walking these streets is tough. The hills are really steep and their aren't many sidewalks.
how do I look for housing?
Finding housing isn't done in a way that we traditionally do back in the states. For the most part you need to be on island. Craigslist doesn't work for St John. You can either use the connections board on island or there are many different facebook groups you can join. Aside from that you need to use word of mouth. Lots of people don't post their places online. You will need to ask around on island.
can I pick or choose my housing?
The options for housing on the island are very very slim. When you find something you will have to act on it, quickly. Just make sure it is in the area you want.
can you drink the water?
If you are on the city water system you can. Most houses have cisterns. They are a rain water collection tank that you can use for showering, laundry and dishes. You should not drink that water. You will have to hike or drive water to your place.
How much should I pay?
Studios: $1000-$1500
1 bedroom: $1000-$1800
2 bedroom: $1800-$2500
The rates vary greatly. Make sure to ask what is included. Wifi, WAPA (power), and water are all very expensive.
water is scarce.
You will need to conserve water. If you run out of the water in your cistern you will have to pay for it and it is very expensive. Take short showers and conserve whenever you can.
How much are utilites?
Utilities vary greatly from place to place. You can expect a bill of $100 to almost $1000 a month for power (WAPA). So you have to be careful with A/C etc.
how do you keep your house dry?
With all the humidity keeping your place dry is a challenge. You could run a dehumidifier but I assume they use a lot of energy. When you run your a/c it will pull water out of the air. Purchase damprid box's at the hardware store or online and place them throughout the house.
power outages.
Power outages are frequent and common. Most places have generators. Be sure to not run the water (if you have a cistern) during a power outage. It will run the pump dry and you will have to pay someone to come out and prime it.
should I get a furnished place?
Absolutely! Sourcing anything on the island is expensive, time consuming and tough. Shipping anything here is a hassle and getting to St Thomas and back is also expensive with plenty of frustrations.
what should I bring from home?
Clothes, towels, sheets, and anything else you can fit in your suitcase. You can't find much on island.
a 15 minute walk from town isn't far....
In most places no. Be aware the hills here are very tough to walk on and sidewalks are rare. Carrying water, groceries or anything else is very tough.