Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving to America! (Biggest Surprises & Hidden Truths)
So, you're gearing up for a big move to America, or maybe you’ve already landed and can’t shake the feeling that everyone else somehow knows a secret you haven’t learned yet. Believe me, you’re not alone. No matter how many blog posts you scroll through or videos you binge-watch, nothing can fully prepare you for the real-life surprises and culture shock that await. Moving to the US can be a whirlwind, full of excitement, confusion, and more than a few “nobody told me THAT!” moments.
Culture Shock: It’s Real, Even if You Speak English
Let’s be honest: you may feel pretty confident if you already speak English. But suddenly, Americans are throwing around phrases like “hit it out of the park,” “throw a curveball,” or calmly asking, “How’s it going?” with a friendliness that can feel both welcoming and baffling. Factor in the local slang, regional accents, and a deep love of sports metaphors, and you’ll realize that speaking English is just the beginning. It’s common to have to ask people to repeat themselves—don’t sweat it! Over time, you’ll pick up the rhythms and nuances, and soon enough, you’ll find yourself dropping a “y’all” into conversation with ease.
Friendliness vs. Friend-Making: Understanding Social Layers
There’s a stereotype that Americans are universally friendly, and you’ll probably find some truth in it. People will chat while you’re queued at the grocery store, flash you a big smile, and always ask, “How are you?” But here’s the catch: small talk is more about politeness than an open invitation to pour out your life story. Making deeper friendships usually takes time. You might find yourself with a lot of “acquaintances” before you find true friends who feel like family. Be patient—building your tribe here is a process, and there’s no shortcut.
Everything’s Bigger in America
From cars to coffee cups, supermarket aisles to food portions—you’ll quickly discover that the US loves to do things on a grand scale. The first time you set foot in a Walmart or get handed a “small” coffee that’s the size of a bucket, you’ll understand. It’s both exciting and overwhelming, so prepare yourself for lots of choices and, often, a lot of driving. Especially outside major cities, having your own car is just about essential.
Healthcare and Credit: Two Crucial Systems to Understand
If there’s one thing expats wish they’d understood sooner, it’s the US healthcare system. Even with insurance, doctor visits, urgent care clinics, prescriptions—all have costs that can add up quickly. Terms like co-pay, deductible, in-network, and out-of-network will soon become part of your everyday vocabulary. Always ask about costs upfront and don’t be shy about shopping around for the best prices.
Equally important: your US credit history. Renting an apartment, getting a phone plan, or even hooking up utilities all depend on it. Without a local credit record, you might face extra deposits and limited financial options. Start building your credit as soon as you arrive: pay bills on time, use a secured credit card, and keep up with your monthly payments. It’ll save you a world of hassle later on.
Tipping and Paperwork: The Unexpected Daily Details
Surprise—tipping isn’t just for restaurants! In the US, it’s customary to tip in taxis, hair salons, and even some coffee shops—usually 15 to 20%. It’s not an optional extra, but a significant part of service workers’ income. Budget for this from day one and remember: nobody’s born knowing how to calculate 18% in their head, so carry your phone or a tip card if you need to.
As for paperwork, just accept it: you’ll accumulate a mountain of it. You’ll need documents for everything, so organize digital and paper copies of your passport, visa, lease agreements, pay stubs, and anything that seems even remotely important. If you don’t understand a form, always ask—there’s no shame in making sure you get it right.
Getting Around and Joining In: Transportation and Traditions
If you dream of getting everywhere on public transport, think again—outside big cities like New York, Boston, or Chicago, you’ll almost certainly need a car. Plan to get your driver’s license early and research public transport options in your area.
On the lighter side, get ready to celebrate! Americans go all-out when it comes to holidays—think over-the-top decorations, themed foods, and neighborhood parties for everything from Halloween to the Fourth of July. It’s a fantastic way to make friends and join the community, so embrace local traditions, even if they seem a little wild at first.
Missing Home: It’s Okay, and It Gets Easier
Homesickness is a fact of life when you move countries, no matter how thrilling the adventure. You’ll miss the food, your family and friends, and sometimes just the comfort of knowing how things work. But with time, you’ll find new routines, explore your new city, and maybe discover a favorite local diner or a hiking trail you love. Reach out to expat groups and online communities—they’re a lifeline when you need support or simply want to hear a familiar accent.
Bonus Tips and Lessons Learned
Want to make your move smoother? Here’s some advice straight from experience:
- Expect extra costs, especially deposits and healthcare expenses.
- Start building your network (join groups online or locally) even before you arrive.
- Stay patient with yourself—adapting is a journey, not an instant transformation.
- Take every opportunity to try new things—say yes, make memories, and don’t be afraid to be a beginner.
- Ask for help—most Americans are genuinely happy to point you in the right direction.
Your American Adventure: Final Thoughts
Moving to America is a leap into the unknown, a mix of challenges and thrilling discoveries. You’ll face surprises, crash courses in credit and healthcare, and the ongoing adventure of building a life in a new place. If there’s one takeaway, it’s this: stay curious, give yourself grace, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. With time, you’ll learn, adapt, and thrive. So, whether you’re about to board your flight or already figuring out life in the States, know that you’re not alone on this journey—and every expat has their own “I wish I’d known!” story. Share yours, ask questions, and remember: the best adventures are the ones where you never stop learning. Good luck with your move—and welcome to America!
