9 Surprising Cultural Differences Europeans Notice After Moving to the USA

Insights for Newcomers

Crossing the Atlantic often means stepping into a world of new habits, customs, and expectations. For Europeans who move to the United States, certain aspects of daily life can feel unexpectedly different, challenging, or even surprising.

Understanding these cultural differences can help newcomers adjust more quickly and gain a deeper appreciation of American society. It’s often the small day-to-day details, rather than major traditions, that stand out the most and shape the experience of adapting to life in the USA.

1) Early closing times for grocery stores and shops

One cultural difference many Europeans notice in the USA is the closing time of grocery stores and other shops. In several American cities, it is common for stores to close as early as 9PM, especially outside of major metropolitan areas.

This often surprises those who are used to later hours in many European countries, where supermarkets and some shops may remain open until 10PM or later. The early closing hours can limit evening shopping options for new arrivals.

On Sundays and public holidays, American stores may also close even earlier or not open at all in some regions. This practice is typically influenced by local laws or business traditions.

People who move from countries with more flexible retail hours may need to adjust their routine. Planning ahead becomes important to avoid missing out on groceries or household items after a certain hour.

2) Strikingly larger portion sizes in restaurants

One of the first things many Europeans notice in the United States is the sheer size of restaurant portions. Meals often arrive with much more food than they are accustomed to at home.

In the U.S., even casual dining spots commonly serve main courses, sides, and drinks in larger quantities. For many Europeans, these servings can feel overwhelming or unnecessary.

Portions in Europe tend to be smaller and more focused on balance. Meals typically include what is needed to satisfy hunger without a lot of excess.

The difference is especially noticeable when comparing fast food or chain restaurants across countries. Items like French fries, sodas, and pizzas are often significantly bigger in American locations.

Some people see this as a positive—a chance for leftovers or sharing. Others find it leads to food waste or encourages overeating. This cultural difference stands out and shapes how visitors and new residents experience eating out in the U.S.

3) Tipping culture and expectations

One of the most immediate differences Europeans notice in the USA is the strong tipping culture. In many American restaurants, it is expected to leave a tip of 15% to 20% of the total bill. This is much higher than the small, occasional tips given in many European countries.

American servers are often paid a lower base wage and rely heavily on tips to supplement their income. This is in contrast to Europe, where waitstaff typically receive a fixed salary and tips are considered a bonus rather than a necessity.

In the US, tipping is not limited to restaurants. Customers are expected to tip taxi drivers, hotel staff, hairdressers, and other service workers as well.

For Europeans used to more modest or optional tipping, this can be confusing and sometimes stressful. The social expectation to tip can feel unfamiliar, especially since, in much of Europe, service charges are often already included in the bill.

Some new arrivals may worry about offending service workers by not tipping enough, while others struggle to adjust to calculating tips for every service. This aspect of daily life stands out as a notable cultural adjustment.

4) High reliance on cars and less pedestrian-friendly areas

Many Europeans notice that living in the USA often means needing a car for daily activities. In numerous American cities and suburbs, public transportation options are limited or infrequent. This high car dependency stands out to those accustomed to more walkable environments.

In Europe, it is common for cities and towns to be designed with pedestrians in mind. Sidewalks, bike lanes, and accessible public transit are usually standard. This layout encourages walking and makes running errands on foot convenient for most residents.

By contrast, wide roads, large parking lots, and urban sprawl are prominent in the U.S. Some neighborhoods lack safe sidewalks or crossings, making walking less practical or appealing. For Americans, driving is often the default for trips both short and long.

These differences can be surprising to Europeans used to compact cities and frequent public transit. The need to drive everywhere in the U.S. can be an adjustment, especially for those who previously relied on walking or cycling as a primary mode of travel.

5) More overt friendliness and small talk with strangers

Many Europeans notice that Americans are more openly friendly, especially in everyday interactions. Smiling at strangers, saying hello, and exchanging brief pleasantries are common in stores, on the street, or in elevators.

Small talk covers topics like the weather, weekend plans, or simple compliments. For someone new to the U.S., it can feel unusual to have casual conversations with people they do not know.

In parts of Europe, conversations with strangers tend to be more reserved. In public, people may speak quietly and avoid unnecessary interaction. This difference often stands out to Europeans after they arrive in America.

Some find this overt friendliness welcoming and easygoing. Others may need time to adjust, especially if they come from cultures where public interactions are less direct. The expectation to make small talk is strong in many parts of the U.S., especially in service encounters.

It is not seen as overly personal or invasive by most Americans. Instead, it is a way to show politeness and create a comfortable social atmosphere, even between complete strangers.

6) Prevalence of processed and fast foods

Many Europeans are struck by how common processed and fast foods are across the United States. Food in the U.S. is often packaged for convenience and long shelf life. Supermarkets offer large sections dedicated to frozen dinners, packaged snacks, and ready-to-eat meals.

Restaurants and fast food chains are widespread, especially in suburban areas. Drive-thru options are available for a variety of foods, not just burgers and fries. This level of convenience can be unfamiliar for those used to homemade or freshly prepared meals.

In much of Europe, fresh ingredients and local foods are standard in daily diets. Europeans may notice a difference in taste and how they feel after eating, sometimes preferring the less processed options they're used to. The emphasis on quick meals can come as a cultural adjustment for newcomers.

It’s also common for portion sizes in the U.S. to be larger, especially at fast food outlets. This, combined with the availability of processed foods, might contribute to different eating habits than what many Europeans experienced at home.

7) Sales taxes not included in price tags

One difference that surprises many Europeans in the USA is that sales tax is not included in the listed price of most products. When shopping, the price on the tag is often lower than what is paid at the register, as local sales tax is added during checkout.

This contrasts with pricing in most European countries, where Value Added Tax (VAT) is already included in the displayed price. Shoppers in Europe know exactly what they will pay before reaching the cashier, making budgeting easier.

In the United States, sales tax rates are set by individual states, and sometimes even cities or counties can add their own tax. Because these rates vary widely between locations, stores often display pre-tax prices to avoid confusion or the need to update pricing for each area.

This system can cause confusion or frustration for newcomers who are not used to calculating the extra cost. Travelers and new residents often need to adjust their expectations and budgets to account for these additional charges.

8) Healthcare access complexity and insurance navigation

Many Europeans are surprised by how complex it is to access healthcare in the United States. Unlike most European countries, where healthcare is often publicly funded or insured, Americans must navigate a mix of private insurance plans, public programs, and out-of-pocket costs.

Navigating insurance policies in the US can be challenging. Patients frequently have to determine which doctors are within their insurance network, what is covered, and how much they must pay themselves.

Paperwork is another issue that stands out. Medical bills and insurance forms can be detailed and sometimes confusing. This is different from the more straightforward billing in much of Europe.

Emergency care in the US is usually good, but costs can be unpredictable. Even short hospital visits may result in large bills.

Access to care also depends on insurance status. Those without good coverage often delay or avoid needed treatments. This is a notable contrast to European countries where access to basic care is more consistent and less dependent on employment or income.

9) Greater emphasis on individualism and self-promotion

Many Europeans notice a distinct focus on individualism when living in the USA. The American cultural mindset often encourages people to take personal initiative, set themselves apart, and pursue their own goals. This emphasis shapes both daily interactions and larger life choices.

Americans are also more likely to highlight their own achievements. In professional settings, employees may be expected to promote their successes openly—something that can feel unfamiliar or even uncomfortable to those from cultures that value modesty.

The American approach to self-promotion extends to areas such as resumes, job interviews, and networking events. Talking about personal accomplishments or skills is often seen as a positive trait and may be necessary for advancement. This contrasts with some European countries where group success or humility might receive more recognition.

These differences can lead to misunderstandings. Europeans may initially interpret American self-confidence as arrogance, while Americans might see European modesty as a lack of ambition. Recognizing this cultural divide helps newcomers adjust their expectations and better understand their new environment.

Cultural Adjustment and Everyday Life

When Europeans move to the USA, day-to-day routines often include new social customs and changes in communication. Adapting can take time as some differences are not obvious until experienced firsthand.

Navigating Social Etiquette

Americans often greet others with enthusiasm and casual friendliness, even with strangers. Politeness in the United States is frequently expressed through routine small talk, smiling, and phrases like “how are you?” even when not expecting a detailed answer.

Tipping is customary in restaurants and many service industries, usually ranging from 15% to 20%. Europeans may find this practice confusing at first, as extra gratuity is uncommon or included in the bill in many European countries.

Personal space is another key difference. In the US, people typically maintain more distance during conversation than in southern Europe. Lines (queues) are respected rigidly, and any cutting in line is frowned upon.

Schedules tend to start early. Many Americans eat dinner earlier than most Europeans, often between 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. Informal dress is widely accepted, and people are less likely to judge attire outside professional settings.

Communication Styles and Small Talk

Directness varies between cultures. Many Americans communicate in a straightforward but polite manner, which can feel informal or even overly friendly to some newcomers.

Small talk is frequent and often expected in public interactions, such as in elevators or grocery stores. Topics are generally light—weather, sports, or weekend plans—and rarely touch on politics or personal finances.

Expressions of agreement, encouragement, and positivity are common in conversations. Americans are more likely to use upbeat language or phrases like “awesome” or “great job” in casual exchanges.

Written and spoken communication may seem less formal and more concise than in many European contexts. Emails, for example, often use first names and get to the point quickly. Punctuality in scheduling and responses is valued.

Legal and Administrative Changes

Moving from Europe to the USA introduces various legal and administrative adjustments. Key areas of difference include the health care system and regulations that affect everyday life, from driving laws to personal identification.

Understanding Healthcare Systems

Many Europeans are accustomed to universal healthcare systems largely funded by taxes. In the USA, healthcare is primarily private, with individuals expected to secure their own insurance through employers, government programs, or private providers.

Navigating American health insurance can be confusing. Plans may include copays, deductibles, and in-network or out-of-network distinctions. Emergency room visits can result in high bills, even with insurance.

Prescription medication costs are often higher in the USA than in Europe, and not every prescription is fully covered by insurance. Those moving from Europe should expect to fill out new medical history forms, select from a range of health plans, and be prepared for higher out-of-pocket costs.

Adapting to Local Laws and Regulations

European newcomers often notice the decentralized legal structure in the USA. Laws can differ significantly between states and even municipalities, affecting speed limits, sales taxes, and laws regarding alcohol purchase.

For example, driving laws vary by state, including what documents are required, speed limits, and penalties for violations. In the USA, carrying government-issued photo identification is essential for a range of activities, including buying alcohol, entering some buildings, or opening a bank account.

Certain customs such as tipping in restaurants and the strong legal emphasis on personal liability can also surprise Europeans, as can the requirement for health, car, and sometimes renters’ insurance. Regular updates and renewals, especially for documents like driver's licenses and visas, are an important part of daily life.