If you’re planning to move to the United States – or if you’ve just arrived – there are a few things you really need to know. And no, I’m not talking about learning English or studying for the citizenship test (although those are important, too). I mean those everyday facts about the United States that no one explains but everyone who lives here figures out sooner or later.
These are the little things – unwritten rules, habits, and ways of doing things – that may seem strange at first. But trust me, knowing them ahead of time can save you a lot of confusion…and a few headaches, too.
I’ve been through this adjustment period, and it wasn’t easy. The hardest part is that no one tells you how things work – you must figure it out as you go. So today, I want to help you avoid that. I will tell you 10 interesting facts about the United States that might surprise you. Some are different and downright weird, but they’re all real and will help you.
Interesting facts about United States you should know before moving
Each state feels like a different country
One of the most interesting facts about the United States is how different each state is from the others. Yes, they’re all part of the same country, but sometimes it feels like you’re crossing into another nation.
Laws change, accents change, the weather changes, and even food and how people drive can be completely different. Seriously, what is legal in one state may be illegal in another, like marijuana or the lottery. Another example is buying alcohol: in some states, you can buy it any day of the week, while in others, the stores are closed on Sundays.
And don’t even get me started on the weather. To give you an idea, the coldest month in Miami is hotter than the warmest month in San Francisco. It’s crazy.
In the United States, a car isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity
Another thing that might surprise you (and make things a little more difficult at first) is that this country revolves around cars. Without one, it’s tough to get around.
Yes, there is public transportation – trains, subways, buses, even streetcars – but it’s not great unless you’re in one of the few big cities like New York or Chicago. On top of that, most cities are built for cars: long streets, shopping malls far from neighborhoods, houses in the suburbs… everything is spread out.
That’s why over 75% of people here use cars to get to work, school, the store – everywhere. So when you arrive, getting a car should be one of your top priorities.
Americans live to work
In many countries, people work to live. Here, it feels like people live to work. And that’s a fact that hits you when you’re here in the United States.
Americans don’t stop working. Even when they are off, many still check their email or catch up on tasks.
What about vacationing, resting, and recharging? Well… let’s say it’s not a priority. I’m not saying people never take breaks, but leisure and social life are more of a luxury here.
When it comes to paid vacation, the numbers speak for themselves. Private sector workers typically get just 10 days of paid vacation after a full year of work. Of course, it depends on the company, but it’s generally much less than in most other countries.
Everything in United States moves fast – Really fast
This work-first culture leads to another big and interesting fact about life in the United States: Everything moves at lightning speed. And no, I’m not exaggerating. Faster is always better for Americans, who’ve built their entire lifestyle around not wasting time on anything that isn’t “productive.”
“Time is money” isn’t just a phrase here – it’s a mantra.
Everything is designed to be fast: meals, meetings, services, even conversations. If something can be done in five minutes instead of fifteen, they’ll do it in three.
You’ll notice this in the fast food industry, which is on a different level here. There are fast food chains everywhere and food trucks on almost every corner. It’s super common to see people eating as they walk or drive. Coffee in one hand, phone in the other, bagel in the mouth—yep, that’s the usual morning routine.
Patriotism in United States is serious business
Another thing that might surprise you – a lot – is how proud Americans are of their country. We all feel a connection to the place we’re from, especially when we’re far away. But in the US, patriotism is on a whole other level.
According to a recent survey, 52% of Americans believe the US is one of the greatest countries in the world, and 29% say it’s the greatest. And they don’t just think it- they show it.
How do they show it? Flags. Lots of flags. You’ll see the American flag everywhere: houses, buildings, restaurants, schools, T-shirts, cars. And it’s not because of a holiday or a special event. It’s just the way it is. They really love their country.
Speaking of which, the Fourth of July – Independence Day – is one of the few big holidays in the US. And it’s a big deal. Families and friends get together; there are barbecues, fireworks, parades… and, yes, more flags.
Healthcare isn’t free
This one’s not just interesting – it’s an important fact about the United States: healthcare isn’t free. It’s one of the most expensive systems in the world.
A simple trip to the emergency room can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars if you don’t have insurance. And if you need tests or a hospital stay, the bill can be outrageous. That’s why it’s essential to have health insurance – even if you’ve just arrived or are here temporarily.
And get this: if you call an ambulance, the paramedics have the right to ask for your insurance information before taking you anywhere.
So, if you plan to move, research your health insurance options based on your state, immigration status, and work situation.
April = Tax Month
In the US, April doesn’t just mean spring – it’s also tax time.
The deadline for filing your federal tax return (or requesting an extension) is usually April 15. This date applies to almost every state except a few, like Maine or Massachusetts, where it might shift by a day or two if there’s a holiday.
What happens if you don’t file on time? You could be hit with a penalty—5% for each month you’re late, up to 25% of the total amount you owe. So yeah, it’s a big deal.
So don’t be surprised if people seem more stressed than usual in April. You’ll hear them talking about accountants, numbers, and endless forms- and soon, you’ll be doing the same.
There are federal rules about your stay in United States
This is another really important fact about the United States. This country is one of the top destinations for immigrants, and it’s a great place to start over and build something new. But one thing is clear: you must regulate your immigration status.
The immigration laws here are strict and very specific. Each type of visa has its rules, and if you break them, you could face penalties, or even deportation.
So, if you’re planning to stay, make sure you do it right. And if your long-term goal is to live here permanently, the best thing you can do is start the naturalization process as soon as you meet the requirements. That way, you’ll enjoy all the rights and benefits of US citizenship.
They have a 24/7 culture— Especially at night
Craving a burger at 2 a.m.? Forgot to buy something important? No worries. In many US cities, you can get what you need anytime.
There’s a strong 24/7 culture here, especially in big cities. Many stores and restaurants are open all night, or at least very late, offering everything from clothing and electronics to beauty products and fresh coffee.
It depends on where you live, of course. New York, “the city that never sleeps,” is the best example. But other cities like Las Vegas, Chicago, and L.A. also have great nightlife and late-night options.
Never, ever forget to tip
In many countries, tipping is optional. But in the US, tipping is practically a social rule. And no, no specific law forces you to tip; it’s just expected. Not tipping is considered very rude – even disrespectful.
The reason is simple: the minimum wage for servers is only $2.13 per hour, well below the federal minimum wage of $7.25. As a result, most waiters and waitresses rely on tips to make ends meet.
So, when you go out to eat, include tips in your budget. You should leave between 15% and 20% of the total bill. If you leave less, you might get a bad look… or your food might have a special new ingredient the next time you return.
Bonus Fact: Americans still use the Imperial System
One of the most interesting and confusing facts about the United States is that they use the Imperial System. While most countries use the International System of Units, the US is part of a small group that still uses the old British system. So, everything is measured in miles and feet. Don’t try to talk to them in kilometers or meters-they won’t get it.
Also, they don’t measure temperature in Celsius; they measure it in Fahrenheit. So, if you hear someone say it’s 70°F outside, don’t panic—you’re not going to melt.
To make things even more confusing, Americans use a different date format: month/day/year. So when you see a date like 4/6/25, it doesn’t mean June 4, 2025. It actually means April 6, 2025. I know – it’s confusing, but you’ll get used to it over time.
Summing up…
These are 11 interesting facts about the United States that will make your life a whole lot easier. I really wish someone had told me this when I first arrived—it would have saved me a lot of time adjusting and a few awkward moments.
Hope this information gives you a little idea of what you’re about to experience. And I won’t lie to you: starting a new life in a new country is not always easy. But you’re not alone. Everyone who’s moved here has gone through the same thing, and I promise you – in time, it will all fall into place.
What seems difficult today will become part of your daily routine. And what seems impossible now will become your reality. Trust yourself, trust your journey, and remember: dreams are built one step at a time. So keep your chin up – the best is yet to come.
If you have any other questions about living in the US, please leave them in the comments. We’re here to help!