As the northernmost village in the United States territory of Guam, Yigo provides a unique living experience for those looking to be close to nature and enjoy an authentically rural lifestyle. With its dense forestry, unspoiled beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, there are many reasons to consider moving here. And while there are some challenges that come with living in such a remote location, there are also plenty of benefits.
In this guide, we’ll explore all the ins and outs of living in Yigo so you can decide if it’s the right move for you. We’ll discuss the nearby schools, community atmosphere, real estate market, and more. We’ll also provide some tips for newcomers, so you can make the most of your time in Yigo.
Living in Yigo, Guam
Guam is made up of 19 distinct villages, and Yigo is a beautiful and intriguing one. Living in this charming village provides a unique opportunity to explore and experience the local culture, cuisine, and activities that are unique to this part of the world. With a population of about 19,300 people, Yigo is not the smallest village on the island but is still fairly rural.
In addition, Yigo is home to the well-known Anderson Air Force Base. The base takes up most of the land in the village and serves as a great source of employment for both military personnel and civilians supporting the installation. This adds to the vibrant mix of locals, ex-pats, and military personnel who all call Yigo home.
Real Estate in Yigo, Guam
Yigo, Guam has become an exceptionally attractive area for those seeking to buy a home. The real estate market is extremely competitive. At the writing of this blog, the median home price is about $339K and an average price of $187.08 per square foot.
The majority of homes in Yigo are single-family dwellings and farther apart. They feature plenty of land for gardens and outdoor space for the kids and pets. In fact, the large lot sizes and privacy that come with living in a more remote location are two of the primary draws here. Whether you are looking for a well-established home filled with character to a newer build with all the best modern features, Yigo has something for you.
Education in Yigo, Guam
Yigo has an impressive education system run by the Guam Department of Education. The school district is committed to adopting and implementing high-quality programs that help all students learn at high levels, while also providing support for their diverse student body.
Thanks to the outstanding school district, Yigo's students are well-prepared not only for college but for meaningful career paths as well.
Some of the top school's children in the area may attend include:
Andersen Elementary School - Unit 14057 BLDG. 1600, Yigo, Guam
Anderson Elementary School is one of the top educational facilities in the area and primarily caters to military dependant children. Because of the large population of military personnel in the area, Anderson Elementary School has become a vibrant center for educational excellence. The school provides a comprehensive curriculum that allows students to develop a strong foundation in several academic subjects.
Machananao Elementary School - 9, Yigo, 96912, Guam
Machananao Elementary School is a trend-setting community that focuses on developing lifelong learners. The students here are passionate and motivated to reach their goals, no matter how big or small. Teachers strive for success on a daily basis, providing an encouraging learning environment so their students can explore new ideas and discover innovative solutions.
F.B. Leon Guerrero Middle School - 533 Juan Jacinto Dr, Yigo, Guam
As one of Yigo's top-tier schools, FB Leon Guerrero Middle School is an excellent choice for your child's education. It offers a well-rounded educational experience, with core subjects like math, science, and language arts as well as extracurriculars such as music and art. As well, many military families choose this school for its proximity to Anderson Air Force Base.
Simon Sanchez High School - 395 Juan Jacinto Dr, Yigo, 96929, Guam
Simon Sanchez High School is a public secondary school that boasts a number of exceptional programs and classes. From STEM and visual art electives to career-focused pathways, there is something for everyone here. It has a strong sense of community where students are encouraged to pursue their passions and express themselves in a way that best suits their talents.
Alongside the public schools in Yigo, Guam, there are also a few highly-rated private schools available for those seeking an alternative option. Overall parents can rest assured that there are plenty of educational options available to their children in the village.
Year-Round Weather in Yigo, Guam
It's easy to bask in the sun year-round while living in Yigo, Guam. This lovely village near the northern coast of Guam is known for its incredible weather and tropical climate. Yigo has two distinct seasons, the dry season from January to June and the wet season from July to December.
The dry season typically has cooler temperatures and a low humidity level, while the wet season generally sees more rainfall and higher temperatures. However, regardless of the season, Yigo is usually sunny with temperatures rarely dipping below 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Proximity to Nearby Destinations
If you are looking for a new home in a place that is close to all the amenities of a big city, Yigo is worth considering. It's just a 35-minute drive from Guam's capital city, Hagåtña, and only 22 minutes away from one of the island's bustling beach towns, Tumon Bay.
The village lies on the opposite end of the island to where Naval Base Guam is located. Yigo is also close to the Guam International Airport, located in the center of the island. This is such a huge plus, as it means that you can easily get to different parts of the island with just a short drive.
Some of the other nearby destinations include:
- Guam Premier Outlets - 18 minutes
- Micronesian Mall - 12 minutes
- Agana Shopping Center - 23 minutes
- Tamuning - 21 minutes
The Community Atmosphere in Yigo, Guam
Where to even start with the community atmosphere in Yigo? This small village is full of friendly neighbors, warm hospitality, and a strong sense of community. The local people here are always willing to help each other out and lend a hand when needed. More often than not, you'll find locals chatting, smiling, and trading stories while they go about their daily lives.
And because of the military presence in Yigo, there is a strong sense of patriotism among the residents. The Fourth of July is an especially festive occasion, with many locals coming together to celebrate the holiday with fireworks and parades. It is one thing to move somewhere new, but it is another thing entirely to feel right at home in the community.
Restaurants in Yigo, Guam
This is one Guam village that knows how to cook! Yigo is home to a few restaurants, ranging from traditional Chamorro dishes to American-style food. If not available in Yigo, you should be able to find what you want to eat in the next village of Dededo. Whether you are craving seafood, barbecue, tacos, burgers, and more, you will definitely find something that hits the spot.
Some of the local favorite eateries include:
- Palm Barbecue & Restaurant l 927 Gayinero Road, Yigo, 96929, Guam
- Uptown Pub & Grill l 389 Chalan Pale Ramon Haya, Yigo, 96929, Guam
- Little Mongolian Grill l Northpoint Commercial Complex, Yigo, 96929, Guam
- Sao Mai Restaurant l 117 Marine Corps Dr. Route 1, Yigo, Guam
- Vons Chicken l 134 East Marine Corps Dr, Yigo, Guam
Outdoor Recreation in Yigo, Guam
Being able to explore the natural wonders of the island and enjoy beautiful outdoor activities is one of the biggest draws of living in Yigo. From snorkeling and diving to hiking, biking, and more, there is so much to do and see when it comes to outdoor recreation near Yigo.
This village, nestled in the hills of Guam, offers plenty of stunning natural scenery and recreational opportunities. One of the most popular beaches in the area is Tarague Beach, which is known for its serene atmosphere and crystal-clear waters. Another Yigo hotspot is Ritidian Beach which has some of the whitest sand on the island and is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing.
If you are more interested in hiking, biking, and other land-based activities then you have to check out the following destinations.
Yigo, Guam is just one of the places that will not only capture your heart but also provide you with the perfect balance of city and nature. From its close proximity to nearby city life, quaint community atmosphere, delicious food, and outdoor recreation opportunities, Yigo is truly a paradise on earth. So if you have been considering a move to this wonderful and unique village, now is the time to make the leap