Digital Nomad Life in the United States
Summary: the United States is a popular destination for digital nomads. The most popular cities for digital nomads in the US are San Francisco, New York City, Austin, Seattle, and Denver. Digital nomads like living in the US because of its diverse culture, vibrant cities, and excellent infrastructure. A digital nomad in the US can live on a monthly budget of around $2,000 to $3,000. This budget should cover accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment. The culture of the United States is very diverse and includes a mix of different cultures from around the world. The US is known for its strong sense of individualism, its entrepreneurial spirit, and its commitment to freedom and democracy.
How do I meet people in the United States?
When we asked people living in the United States about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"I would recommend the bars and clubs here in Sacramento. They are mostly located in the downtown area. Some good clubs to visit are Blue Q and Empire. For bars we have plenty of them, some good ones are Sandbar,Pine Cove,Firehouse,Players,for the youngfolks that attend Sac State Univ. you can check out the Library, and you can also go down to the river Old Sacramento area for the riverside dining bars that are available. If you are into music we have a growing underground music community in hip-hop and rock. Finding out about shows is easy mainly because you can flyers for shows posted in every coffee shop and street corner. A good venue for music to check out is the Boardwalk. If clubbing and music isn't your thing we have 2 rivers and a lake within the Sacramento area. One can do everything from boating,swimming,fishing,mountain biking to jogging. There are plenty of outdoor activities to do," said one person in Sacramento.
"I might recommend looking into local high schools (Brookline High) for continuing ed classes- you can take everything from Spanish to cooking to woodworking. There is also Junior League of Boston, and different business networking opportunities. (None which come to mind by name- but we belong to the Boston College Club- those types of places are great- although expensive) I would also suggest looking into the alumni department of the college you attended- I know there is a whole network of colleges that sponsor events together. (wine tasting, a capella concerts, ball games, etc.) One other suggestion is Boston.com and citysearch.com -- they summarize all the events in the city- free concerts on the river, events in the park, shows, etc. The Improper Bostonian is a free weekly magazine - they usually list great stuff in there, as well as the Boston Globe publishes a calendar section each Thursday. It highlights the events going on for the weekend, new restaurants, bars, etc," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Boston.
What is life like in the United States?
When we asked people living in the United States what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"It is a bit of all of this- but work and socializing are big on a daily basis. Sports- depending on the season -are big too. Specifically the Patriots and Red Sox. I don't see a huge family emphasis at all," said one expat who made the move to Boston.
"People's lives revolve mostly around working all day to pay the bills, then coming home and socializing. Family isn't really a big priority here mainly because most families here are dysfunctional or broken," explained one foreigner living in Sacramento, US.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Where should I live in the United States?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Found the area by talking with friends and using realtor as well as length of commute. Also, by calibre of schools recommended by School Choice," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Morristown.
What do I need to know before moving to the United States?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to the United States, they said:
"Before retiring in the United States, expats should familiarize themselves with the US visa and immigration requirements in order to determine their eligibility to stay and work in the country. It is important to also research state and federal tax regulations, and investigate the cost of living in the region they plan to retire to. Understanding the health care system is also essential, including what kinds of health insurance options are available and how they differ from home country plans. Additionally, expats should make sure they have sufficient savings and resources to cover the costs of retirement. Finally, research the cultural, social and recreational activities in the area to gain an understanding of how life will be in the US for retirees," explained one expat living in United States.
"Real estate advice- renting an apartment is expensive- the rents are high and in addition you have to pay first, last, security, and a finders fee - usually equal to one month's rent. The suburbs are a bit less expensive- and many still have an urban feel," said one person in Boston.
"If you are a young person in his/her 20s I would not recommend it. We do have a club scene yes, but it dies around 12am. That and most clubs/bars can be dangerous at times due to gangs coming in and starting trouble. Sacramento is perfect for someone in their later adult years to live and work. However, if you are planning on moving here bring plenty money with you, and try to find a place before coming, which isn't difficult, apartment complexes are always renting," said one expat who made the move to Sacramento.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in the United States?
"One of the things that expats in the United States appreciate most about the local culture is its diversity. Expats often find it interesting to be exposed to the many different cultures that make up America and appreciate the opportunities to discover and learn something new. They also appreciate the freedom of speech and the openness of the people. Expats often enjoy getting to experience the high quality of life and standard of living available in the United States, as well as the many different types of entertainment, restaurants, and activities they can enjoy. The various cultural centers and museums are also a great source of education and insight into the different customs, languages and beliefs of the people in the United States. In addition, the strong sense of patriotism and pride the citizens of the United States feels for their country is something many expats find inspiring," said one person in United States.
"Atlanta is a small city with big green suburbs. People are friendly, more relaxed than in NYC. I enjoyed having a big house in a small private community, it is very green. I enjoyed the parks, lakes and mountains. The weather was great, I love the heat so was happy in "Hotlanta". A lot of outdoor activities and summer camps for kids. Very active support groups for small business owners and women's group," said one expat who made the move to Atlanta.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in the United States?
"Many expats find the United States to be a very fast-paced culture, and it can be difficult to adjust to the speed of life in the US. Additionally, the vast size of the country can make it challenging to get around and to find community within a new city. Some expats may also find it difficult to navigate the state and federal laws in the US, which can be quite complicated to understand. Furthermore, the cultural norms and expectations can be difficult to understand and many expats may find themselves feeling unsure in social situations. Finally, the value placed on individualism and self-reliance can make it difficult for expats to feel connected to their new home," remarked one member in United States.
"We have a different sense of humor and we have friends individually, not as a couple. It has taken a while to make friends. We are not in a very diverse area and in hindsight would probably have bought a house elsewhere. It is ultra conservative here and we are not. So be careful where you choose to live. It does make a big difference. We have got used to it and we have found some people similar to ourselves but still I would still move in a few years time," explained one expat living in Northern Virginia, US.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in the United States for a while?
"If you are planning to stay in the United States for a while, you will likely need either a Green Card or a valid visa. To apply for either document, you will generally need to provide a valid passport, proof of financial stability, and evidence of your planned activities in the United States. Depending on your situation, you may also need to provide other documents such as letters of invitation, evidence of employment, proof of educational records, or a criminal background check. Additionally, you may also be asked to provide copies of your biometric information, health records, and/or family ties," said one expat in United States.

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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in the United States?
We asked people in the United States if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"1. Respect religious and cultural differences, be mindful of personal space, and be aware that American English has some nuances which could be easily misunderstood. 2. Don't make assumptions about people's political views or beliefs. 3. Avoid offensive comments about politics, gender, race, ethnicity, nationality, age, or sexual orientation. 4. Don't stare or point, and maintain a respectful distance from individuals you are unfamiliar with. 5. Respect the importance of privacy, and don’t make assumptions about relationships or personal histories. 6. Always ask permission before touching someone or making public displays of affection. 7. Dress appropriately when in a professional or public setting, and avoid discussing contentious topics such as religion or politics. 8. Show gratitude, and remember to wait your turn when speaking in a group," remarked one foreigner who made the move to United States.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are healthcare services like in the United States?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in the United States, they replied:
"Find out before coming if your current insurance is accepted by anyone here. I found that not all clinics accepted Blue Cross, which surprised me! Many locals travel to Guam or the Philippines for serious medical procedures, so keep that in mind if you are not in good health, or would not be able to travel to get care," said a member in Saipan.
"Healthcare services in the United States are provided by a mix of public and private providers. The public healthcare system is largely funded by the federal government through Medicare and Medicaid programs. Quality of public healthcare varies by state and region, but generally is considered to be of a high standard. Foreign residents are not eligible for public healthcare in the United States, however, expats in the United States may be able to access public healthcare through the Affordable Care Act. Expats may also purchase private health insurance plans to cover their healthcare needs," explained one person living in United States.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are the pros and cons of living in the United States?
"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the diversity of cultures and lifestyles in the United States. They also enjoy the wide range of activities and attractions available, from the beaches of California to the mountains of Colorado. Additionally, the US is home to some of the world's most innovative companies and industries, making it an attractive destination for those looking to further their career. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may find the cost of living in the US to be quite high, especially in major cities. Additionally, the US has a complex immigration system, which can be difficult to navigate for those who are not familiar with the process," said one foreigner in United States.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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