Yes, the Virgin Islands (both US and British) are considered among the most expensive destinations in the Caribbean. Because almost all goods—including food, fuel, and construction materials—must be imported by sea or air, the "cost of living" for tourists is high. In 2026, a mid-range hotel room in St. Thomas or St. John averages $250 to $450 per night, and luxury resorts can easily exceed $1,000. Dining out is also a major expense; a casual lunch for two often costs $50, while a dinner with drinks at a nice restaurant can surpass $150. The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are generally even more expensive than the USVI due to their "high-value, low-impact" tourism model and the high costs of inter-island ferries and private charters. To save money, some travelers stay on St. Croix, which is slightly more affordable, or shop at local grocery stores, though even grocery prices are about 20–30% higher than on the US mainland. Despite the high price tag, the islands' pristine beaches and world-class sailing continue to draw visitors who view the expense as a "premium" for the scenery.