What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in United States. They wrote...
"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," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to 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," commented one expat who made the move to Washington DC, US.

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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to the United States?
- Where should I setup a bank account in the United States?
- Will I be able to find a job in the United States?
- What is life like in the United States?
- What do expats in the United States appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in the United States?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in the United States accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in the United States like?
- What are healthcare services like in the United States?
- What are medical services in the United States like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in the United States?
- What are emergency services like in the United States?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in the United States?
- How are local medical facilities in the United States?
- As a foreigner living in the United States, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in the United States, newcomers to the United States would love to hear your answer to this question.
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.