Visiting or moving to the United States can be an exciting and eye-opening experience. For many foreigners, the cultural differences and daily customs can be quite different from what they expect. While the U.S. is known for its diversity and global influence, there are still many aspects of American life that catch international visitors off guard. Here are five of the most common surprises foreigners experience in the United States.
One of the first things many visitors notice is how large everything is in the U.S. From oversized food portions to wide roads and massive vehicles, the American preference for space and scale can be striking. Cities and states are also geographically vast, and traveling from one major city to another can take hours by plane or car. This scale extends to retail stores and shopping centers, which are often larger than their counterparts abroad.
Tipping in the United States is not just appreciated—it is expected. Foreigners are often surprised to learn that service workers, such as restaurant servers, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff, rely heavily on tips as part of their income. In restaurants, a standard tip is between 15% and 20% of the total bill before tax. Not tipping, or tipping too little, can be seen as rude or disrespectful, even if the service was average.
While the U.S. is one country, it is made up of 50 states, each with its own laws, customs, accents, and traditions. Foreigners are often surprised at how different life can be from one region to another. The culture in New York City is not the same as in Texas or California. The U.S. is also incredibly ethnically and culturally diverse, which can be both welcoming and surprising to those who expect a more uniform national identity.
The American healthcare system is often unexpected for those used to publicly funded or universal healthcare. In the U.S., healthcare is largely privatized and can be expensive without insurance. Foreigners may be surprised by the high cost of even basic services and the importance of having insurance coverage. Emergency treatment is available regardless of status, but payment is usually expected afterward.
Many foreigners are surprised by how friendly and casual Americans can be in everyday interactions. It is common for strangers to smile, say hello, or strike up casual conversations in public places. Americans also tend to address others by their first names and use informal language quickly, even in business or service settings. While this openness can feel warm and welcoming, it may also feel overly familiar to visitors from more formal cultures.
The United States offers a unique blend of cultural and social behaviors that will surprise and challenge some newcomers. Understanding these differences ahead of time can help visitors and immigrants adjust more comfortably to American life.
