Life in the USA: Expectations vs. Reality

There are always many everyday moments associated with living in another country. When you find yourself in an unfamiliar society or even just consider moving there, you inevitably compare it to your familiar environment, searching for both its strengths and weaknesses. This approach is helpful in determining whether a place is right for you.

Here are 7 pros and 7 cons of real life in the USA, giving you an insight into life in this country. Read the article and learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of life in America firsthand!

Features of Life in America

Cultural Diversity

The USA is a country of immigrants, and you will find an incredible diversity of cultures, traditions, and customs. Every state, city, and even neighborhood can be unique in its population and cultural features. This diversity creates a rich and interesting cultural environment where everyone can find something that resonates with them.

However, such diversity can also be a source of cultural "misunderstandings" and stereotypes. For example, residents of big cities like New York or Los Angeles might lead a more "cosmopolitan" lifestyle, while people in rural areas often adhere to traditional American values.

The American Dream

The concept of the "American Dream" is firmly ingrained in the minds of many as a symbol of success and prosperity. The idea that anyone can achieve success through hard work and perseverance inspires millions of people around the world. Indeed, the USA offers many opportunities for career growth and personal development.

However, achieving the American Dream is not always guaranteed. In reality, many face challenges such as high competition in the job market, the high cost of living, and income inequality. Despite this, for many people, the USA remains a land of opportunity.

Education and Career

The education system in the USA is considered one of the best in the world. Renowned universities such as Harvard, Princeton, and MIT attract students from all over the globe. The American education system offers a wide range of programs and courses, allowing everyone to choose a path that suits them.

A career in the USA is often built on the principles of meritocracy, where talent and hard work are key factors for success. However, competition in the job market can be fierce, especially in industries like IT and finance.

Healthcare

Healthcare in the USA is one of the most complex and debated topics. The healthcare system is predominantly private and quite expensive. Health insurance is a necessity for most Americans, as medical services can be costly without it.

On one hand, high-quality medical care and the latest medical technologies are available in the USA. On the other hand, the absence of universal public insurance makes healthcare inaccessible for many low-income citizens.

Lifestyle and Leisure

Americans value comfort and convenience in their daily lives. Well-developed infrastructure, convenient stores and restaurants, and access to various forms of entertainment make life in the USA comfortable and interesting. In every major city, you can find theaters, museums, concert halls, and sporting events to suit every taste.

Outdoor recreation is also popular among Americans. National parks like Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon offer stunning views and opportunities for active leisure.

Pros of Living in the USA

Climate

The USA has significantly more sunny days than Russia and CIS countries. Even in the northern states, the climate is relatively mild. Spring and autumn are generally warm and long, winter is not very long, and summer is clear. The closer you get to the ocean, the more humid and pleasant the air becomes. Many newcomers to the USA notice improvements in their skin and hair and an uplift in their mood.

Politeness

People from post-Soviet spaces often find it unusual to see smiles all around them. Smiles and polite conversation are essential elements of communication culture in America. People will never be rude to you or express personal opinions directly. To those around you, you are a person worthy of respect, pleasant conversation, and a good mood.

Customer Service

Nearly all retail outlets are focused on maximizing customer comfort. When you purchase an item or pay for services, the provider company offers a full return guarantee for a period ranging from two months to a year. Here are a few real-life examples from Russian immigrants living in the USA:

• A woman bought skincare products but found out the cream didn't suit her at home. She got a full refund for the entire set in the store.
• Another woman who grows garden plants ordered seedlings online. After planting, some bushes didn't please her, and the company refunded her money and paid for the extraction work.
• A guy who ordered a sofa from a major furniture store found that cat hair and dust stuck too easily to the upholstery. The store accepted the sofa return and refunded his money.

Cleanliness of Streets

Many have seen in movies beautiful American streets with neat houses and lawns. They truly look this way — even in busy urban areas, streets appear clean and well-maintained.

Parks and Public Places

In the USA, you will always find leisure options and pleasant places for walks. Every city, even a small one, has parks, squares, and beautiful natural landscapes. Additionally, there are many shopping malls, entertainment complexes, bars, and other meeting and socializing places.

Career Opportunities

The USA is an ideal place for career development or even starting your own business. Most of the offices of major companies are located there, with state support for private businesses and many professional communities in various fields.

Minimal Bureaucracy

Paying bills, registering residency, connecting utilities, managing paperwork, and most banking operations — this and more can be done online. No queues, long waits, or visits to respective departments.

Cons of Living in the USA

Need for a Car

Distances in the USA are vast, making it often impossible to get by without a car. Large stores, for instance, are always far from homes, and public transportation might be more expensive and less comfortable.

Real Estate Prices

The better the neighborhood, the higher the price. Besides money for purchasing real estate and utility bills, you'll also pay a fairly high monthly tax. As a result, owning property is almost as costly as renting.

Food

This is especially true for school or corporate meals. The fast-food industry and the population's habit of unhealthy food lead to greater availability. Eating healthy is often more expensive and complicated.

Unlisted Taxes

The amount indicated on the price tag is not the full price. At the checkout, 3-15% might be added to the total, depending on the state. On average, purchases cost 8% more than expected.

Expensive Healthcare

Even with health insurance (which can cost from $200 to $2,000 per month), healthcare services can be exorbitantly priced or not fully covered. Often, dental services are not included in the insurance.

Tipping

In the USA, it is customary to tip everyone who serves you, usually 15-20% of the bill amount. If you don't tip, you might face open disapproval or degraded service in the future.

Measurement System

America uses the English measurement system, not the metric one. So be prepared to use inches, feet, yards, miles, and pounds instead of familiar units.

Tips for Adapting

1. 01.Language Learning
   Proficiency in English will help you adapt faster to life in the USA and communicate with locals.
2. 02.Cultural Familiarity
   Learn more about American culture and traditions to better understand locals and avoid cultural misunderstandings.
3. 03.Financial Planning
   Develop a budget and plan your expenses to avoid financial difficulties in a high-cost-of-living environment.
4. 04.Social Engagement
   Participate in local events and communities to make new friends and get acquainted with the culture.
5. 05.Healthy Lifestyle
   Maintain a healthy lifestyle by exercising and watching your diet.