Money, budget, and shopping in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Money

Currency

Currency: US dollar (100 cents).

Bills: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100.

Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents + $1.

Exchange:

Exchange

If you didn’t bring enough dollars with you, you can always exchange your currency (not always at a good rate) at banks or, more simply, use ATMs.

Payment methods

In addition to cash, credit cards are widely accepted, just like in the USA, especially in tourist areas and for services. But watch out for bank fees if you make too many small purchases or withdrawals.

Returning home

Since you’ll be using US dollars during your trip, there’s no problem exchanging any leftover money afterward—or simply saving it for your next trip.

Budget

What can be expensive

What can be inexpensive

Price range

Double room in a budget hotel:

Double room in a mid-range hotel:

Snacks, local restaurant meal:

Tourist restaurant meal:

Budget car rental:

One hour of bus travel:

Urban taxi:

Urban bus:

Bargaining and tipping

Shopping and souvenirs

While the archipelago doesn’t have much unique local craftsmanship, the port of Charlotte Amalie is a major shopping hub. There are dozens of duty-free shops, which have given Saint Thomas a strong reputation among US shoppers.