St. John Real Estate

St. John Real Estate Guide

Comprised of four main islands, the Virgin Islands are made up of the following islands: St. John, St. Croix, St. Thomas, Water Island, each offering a unique living experience. The smallest of all the islands, St. John is 9 miles long and 2 miles wide with approximately 60% of its land serving as a national park. St. John boasts 5000 acres of pristine National Parks deeded by Lawrence Rockefeller in 1956. While all that wonderful nature is to be truly enjoyed, it also makes for a smaller and more expensive real estate market.

St. John, also known as “love city”, is a laid back, lusciously green and pristine island. Many of the beaches have coral reef that is rather close to the shore so this makes St. John a great island for snorkeling. Aside from all of the water activities to partake in, this quaint island has a surprising number of fine dining options and high-end shopping that makes it impossible to run out of things to do! Like St. Thomas, St. John is ideally situated for cruisers as the it enjoys close proximity to the BVI’s providing a multitude of day trip possibilities.

St. John Homes for Sale

St. John offers waterfront luxury homes, condominiums, vacation and timeshare properties. In 2018, the average St. John homes for sale had a listing price of $2,104,000 which has fallen approximately 13% in 2018 compared to 2017. In 2018, the average home sold for $1.049M. The average number of days that a property remains on the market is 240 days. While the overall number of condominiums sold has decreased by 14%, the current market is seeing positive trends which is great news for sellers.

The main opportunities for employment include positions with the National Park Service, tourist industry, the medical clinic, and retail sales. If you’re due to retire from your 9 to 5 job and aren’t quite ready to own property, a St. John vacation rental may be an option to consider. The sale of commercial and land properties is showing signs of recovery as new land listings increased by 9% in 2018. In 2020, there has been activity in all price points of the real estate market, with a boost in the high-end market — the average residential sales price is just under $1.3M for 2020 to date.

Neighborhoods in St. John

Although St John has approximately 4,500 year-round residents, the majority of people live in Cruz Bay and Coral Bay. While all of these areas share in the tranquil beauty of the island, each has a unique personality. Find homes for sale in St. John and learn more about the real estate market and culture in each area below.

Cruz Bay

Cruz Bay exudes laid-back island charm while offering modern conveniences for residents and visitors alike. This main town on St. John boasts a diverse culinary scene, with an array of restaurants, bars, and cafes serving up everything from fresh seafood and Caribbean delicacies to international cuisine and upscale dining experiences. Residents can relish live music, cultural events, and vibrant nightlife options right in their neighborhood. Despite its small size, Cruz Bay offers a host of convenient amenities and services, including grocery stores, banks, and healthcare facilities, ensuring that residents have all the essentials for comfortable island living.

Conveniently situated within walking distance of the ferry terminal providing transportation to nearby St. Thomas, Cruz Bay’s two main commercial areas, Wharfside Village and Mongoose Junction, are brimming with beach bars, eclectic shops, and fine dining establishments. Vacation rentals and condos offer picturesque views overlooking the bay, completing the allure of this charming Caribbean gem.

Maho Bay & Peter Bay

Known for its opulent residences, breathtaking ocean panoramas, and secluded setting, Peter Bay epitomizes luxury living on St. John. This neighborhood offers residents a serene sanctuary enveloped by natural splendor. At its heart lies Peter Bay Beach, a crescent-shaped expanse of powdery white sand and tranquil turquoise waters, perfect for indulging in swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling adventures. Gated entrances and meticulously landscaped grounds ensure an exclusive and tranquil ambiance for residents. Despite its secluded ambiance, Peter Bay enjoys convenient proximity to Cruz Bay’s amenities and attractions, including shops, restaurants, and the ferry terminal, just a short drive away.

Chocolate Hole

Chocolate Hole, situated on the southwestern coast of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a serene and sought-after residential area known for its tranquil atmosphere, stunning views, and convenient location. Named after its horseshoe-shaped bay, Chocolate Hole offers residents a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush tropical foliage and turquoise waters. The neighborhood features a mix of luxurious villas, charming cottages, and vacation rentals, many of which boast panoramic ocean views and direct access to the beach. The nearby town of Cruz Bay is just a short drive away, offering a range of amenities such as restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Despite its close proximity to town, Chocolate Hole maintains a sense of seclusion and tranquility, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxed island lifestyle. 

Coral Bay 

Located on the southeastern coast of St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Coral Bay is a charming and serene community celebrated for its breathtaking natural vistas, eclectic vibe, and relaxed ambiance. In contrast to the bustling tourist center of Cruz Bay on the island’s western shore, Coral Bay beckons with its off-the-beaten-path allure and genuine island character.

Rendezvous and Ditleff Point

Located between the coves of Rendezvous Bay and Fish Bay lies Ditleff Point, an exclusive peninsula boasting some of the most prestigious living options on St. John. This gated community, recently developed and spanning 47 acres of pristine land, is a haven of luxury surrounded by turquoise waters on all sides. The roadways are adorned with meticulously crafted local stone walls, while clusters of sea grapes and bougainvillea add tropical charm throughout. Renowned for its picturesque beaches and impeccable layout and design, Ditleff Point offers a truly luxurious lifestyle experience.

Reef Bay

Located on the south side of St. John, the majority of Reef Bay is part of the Virgin Islands National Park. Homes are located in the western part of Reef Bay and have stunning sunset views. On clear days residents can see St. Croix, a sister island that sits 40 miles south of St. John. 

Frequently Asked Questions About St. John USVI Real Estate

How long are homes typically on the market in St. John, USVI?

Homes are typically on the St John market for an average of 149 days. This will vary depending on the time of year and the community on the island.

What is the medium home price for St John, USVI?

Homes in the St John USVI housing market have a median listing of $489,000. The range varies by the community you decide to purchase your home in.

How does the home purchasing process work for St John properties?

The first step in your home buyer journey is to get pre-approved for your home from a lender. Once complete, you can search through the various homes found on St John island with help from our relator team. Once you have found a home that matches your criteria, our team will help guide you through the rest of the purchasing journey.

What are some popular zip codes and neighborhoods around St John, USVI?

There are a lot of great areas around the island but a few of our favorites are found in the Chocolate Hole, Cruz Bay, and Coral Bay areas.