At a Glance
Cost of Living
high
Safety
moderate
English Level
high
Climate
Varies by region: tropical (FL), continental (Midwest), Mediterranean (CA), arctic (AK)
Essentials
Cost of Living
Costs vary enormously by location. San Francisco and NYC are among the world's most expensive cities, while the Midwest and South offer much better value. Expect to spend 30-40% of income on housing in major metros.
Healthcare
The US has world-class medical facilities but no universal coverage. Health insurance is essential - medical debt is the leading cause of bankruptcy. Most people get coverage through employers.
Housing
Housing markets vary dramatically by region. Major metros face inventory shortages and high prices. Most landlords require credit history, employment verification, and income 3x rent. First-last-security deposits are standard.
Banking
Opening a bank account is straightforward with valid ID and address. Credit history is crucial and starts from zero - building it should be an immediate priority. Many banks have programs for newcomers.
Lifestyle
Working Remotely
The US has embraced remote work post-COVID, but visa holders must be careful about work location and employer requirements. Internet infrastructure is generally good in urban areas, variable in rural.
Transportation
The US is car-dependent outside major metros. Public transit is limited to a few cities. Getting a driver's license is often essential. Car insurance is mandatory.
Language
English is the dominant language, though the US has no official language. Spanish is widely spoken. English proficiency is essential for most jobs and daily life.
Expat Community
The US has large immigrant communities from virtually every country. Finding your community is easy in major metros. Meetup groups, cultural associations, and online forums help newcomers connect.
Food & Dining
American food culture is diverse, reflecting waves of immigration. Expect large portions, strong tipping culture (15-20%), and food from every corner of the world in major cities.
More Topics
Taxes
The US taxes residents on worldwide income. Tax system is complex with federal, state, and local taxes. Filing is mandatory for most earners. Tax day is April 15th annually.
Safety
Safety varies significantly by location. Most areas are safe for daily life. Research neighborhoods before moving. Gun violence is a unique concern compared to other developed countries.
Culture & Lifestyle
American culture values individualism, direct communication, and work ethic. Regional cultures vary significantly. Work-life balance is less emphasized than in many other countries.
Climate & Weather
The US spans multiple climate zones from arctic Alaska to tropical Hawaii. Weather varies dramatically by region - hot summers in the South, harsh winters in the Midwest, and mild year-round climates on the West Coast.
Education
The US has world-renowned universities but expensive higher education. Public K-12 is free but quality varies by district. School choice and location significantly impact children's education.
Family Life
Raising a family in the US offers opportunities but also challenges like expensive childcare and limited parental leave. Family structure and support systems look different than many countries.