30 Surprising Habits You’ll Pick Up After Moving to the U.S.

Moving to the U.S. involves more than just settling into a new place. It often leads to unexpected changes in your daily habits. From how you greet others to the way you shop, eat, or manage your time, life in America can feel both familiar and surprisingly different. At first, these changes might catch you off guard. But over time, many newcomers find themselves smiling at strangers, tipping without hesitation, or making small talk in places they never would have before. These new behaviors may seem minor, but they slowly become part of your routine. Here are 30 surprising habits people often pick up after moving to the United States—even if they don’t notice it right away.

You Start Saying “How Are You?” Without Expecting an Answer

In the U.S., “How are you?” is more of a greeting than a genuine inquiry. It’s common to ask this question even in passing, like at a store or coffee shop. Most people don’t expect a detailed response—it’s typically met with a quick “Good, you?” exchange. If you’re new to the country, this can feel disingenuous at first. Over time, however, many people adopt this habit as a routine social nicety. It becomes second nature to use it as a casual opener. This reflects a broader cultural tendency toward friendliness and small talk.

You Begin to Smile at Strangers

In many parts of the U.S., particularly in suburban or rural areas, it’s common to smile or nod at strangers. This can be surprising if you’re from a place where neutral facial expressions are the norm. The gesture is often used as a sign of politeness or acknowledgment. It doesn’t necessarily mean someone wants to strike up a conversation. Instead, it signals openness and friendliness. Over time, you may find yourself returning or initiating these smiles without thinking. It’s a small but significant shift in social behavior.

Tipping Becomes Second Nature

Tipping is deeply ingrained in American culture, especially in the service industry. Whether it’s at restaurants, hair salons, or for food delivery, a tip of 15-20% is generally expected. This may feel unusual or excessive to newcomers from countries where tipping is optional or discouraged. However, service workers in the U.S. often rely on tips to supplement their income. As a result, you quickly learn to calculate tips and include them without hesitation. Many immigrants adjust their budgets to account for tipping in everyday expenses. It becomes an automatic part of dining out or receiving services.

You Get Used to Sales Tax Not Being Included in Prices

Unlike many countries that include tax in listed prices, the U.S. adds sales tax at the point of purchase. This means the price you see on a tag isn’t what you’ll actually pay at the register. It can be confusing and frustrating at first, especially for budgeting. Sales tax rates also vary by state, county, and city, adding another layer of complexity. Over time, people learn to mentally add a few extra dollars to account for tax. This behavior becomes especially ingrained when shopping or dining out. You begin to anticipate the “final total” as part of the buying experience.

You Start Driving More and Walking Less

The U.S. is a car-centric country, especially outside of major cities. Public transportation isn’t always reliable or available, so owning a vehicle often becomes a necessity. Even short trips to the store are frequently done by car. Newcomers used to walkable communities might find this shift jarring. Eventually, the convenience and culture of driving influence behavior. Many find themselves walking less and planning errands around driving routes. It’s a major lifestyle change that affects daily routines and mobility.

You Adopt Casual Dress as the Norm

In many areas of the U.S., especially outside of big cities or formal settings, casual attire is the standard. It’s not unusual to see people wearing pajamas, sweatpants, or athletic wear in public. This relaxed dress code reflects American values around comfort and individualism. For newcomers used to dressing formally for errands or outings, this can be surprising. Eventually, comfort often wins out, and casual clothing becomes the default. People begin to prioritize ease over appearance in daily dress. It’s a subtle but noticeable change in self-presentation.

You Get Comfortable With Small Talk

Americans often engage in casual conversation with strangers in public settings. Whether it’s chatting with a cashier or a fellow commuter, small talk is a social norm. Topics like the weather, sports, or local events are common. While it may feel superficial or unnecessary to outsiders, it’s a way of building low-stakes rapport. Over time, many adopt this habit as a means of blending in or being polite. You might even find it enjoyable as a way to connect briefly with others. It becomes a routine part of everyday interactions.

You Become Time-Conscious and Appointment-Oriented

Punctuality is a valued trait in American culture, especially in professional settings. Meetings, appointments, and even social gatherings often start right on time. Being late is generally seen as disrespectful or irresponsible. This differs from cultures where time is more fluid or flexible. Newcomers often adjust by becoming more time-aware and using calendars or alarms more frequently. Scheduling even casual get-togethers becomes a norm. Time management becomes a priority in both work and social life.

You Start Using the Imperial System (Reluctantly)

The U.S. is one of the few countries that uses the imperial system for measurements like inches, feet, and miles. This can be confusing for those used to the metric system. Converting between systems becomes a frequent mental exercise. Over time, many adopt the local units, especially for everyday use like cooking, driving, or measuring height. It often starts with approximation—learning that 1 inch is about 2.5 cm, or that 1 mile is roughly 1.6 kilometers. Eventually, you start thinking in gallons and Fahrenheit without even realizing it. It’s a practical adaptation to everyday life.

You Get Comfortable With Self-Service Culture

In many U.S. settings, self-service is the norm—from gas stations and fast-food kiosks to grocery store checkouts. This reflects both a cost-cutting measure and a cultural emphasis on individual responsibility. At first, this may feel impersonal or inconvenient. However, the efficiency and autonomy it offers can be appealing. Many people quickly learn to navigate these systems with ease. Over time, you may even come to prefer self-service for its speed and control. It’s a practical shift in how daily tasks are completed.

You Start Carrying a Reusable Water Bottle Everywhere

Hydration is a big deal in the U.S., and many people carry water bottles with them at all times. It’s common to see large refillable bottles in workplaces, gyms, and even on casual outings. Public spaces often have water fountains or refill stations to support this habit. This is partly due to health trends and partly because many areas have clean, drinkable tap water. Newcomers often adopt the habit for convenience and social conformity. Eventually, it feels strange to leave the house without a water bottle. It’s a small but symbolic shift toward health-focused behavior.

You Learn to Stand in Line (and Take It Seriously)

Americans place a high value on orderly lines—whether at a bank, coffee shop, or airport. Cutting in line is socially unacceptable and often met with disapproval. This behavior reflects broader cultural values of fairness and personal space. In many other countries, lines are less structured and more flexible. After moving to the U.S., people quickly learn to queue patiently and respect others’ place in line. It becomes second nature to wait your turn, even if no formal markers exist. This change supports the smooth flow of public life and reduces conflict.

You Start Using Credit Cards for Almost Everything

In the U.S., credit cards are widely used—even for small purchases like coffee or snacks. Many people use them for points, cashback, or credit score benefits. Unlike in some countries where cash is king, cards are often the default. Newcomers may be wary at first, but quickly adapt due to the convenience and acceptance. Over time, you might find yourself swiping or tapping for nearly every transaction. Building a credit history becomes an important financial priority. This shift plays a significant role in accessing loans, renting homes, and more.

You Become More Outspoken and Assertive

American culture often encourages directness and self-expression. Speaking up in meetings, advocating for yourself, and expressing opinions are seen as positive traits. This can contrast sharply with cultures that value indirectness or group harmony. Over time, people tend to adjust by becoming more assertive in communication. This includes saying “no” directly, making requests clearly, and engaging in open debate. The change is often driven by necessity in workplaces and social settings. It’s a significant shift in how you present yourself and interact with others.

You Get Used to Bigger Portion Sizes

Food portions in the U.S. are generally much larger than in many other countries. This includes restaurant meals, snacks, and even grocery items. At first, the abundance can be overwhelming or seem wasteful. Over time, many people adapt by sharing meals, taking leftovers home, or adjusting expectations. Some may even unconsciously increase their portion sizes. This shift often happens gradually and reflects broader cultural norms around abundance and value. Understanding portion size becomes key to navigating American dining.

You Begin Prioritizing Convenience Over Tradition

From drive-thrus to one-click shopping, American culture emphasizes speed and convenience. Traditional methods often take a back seat to what’s faster or easier. This can apply to food, communication, or even relationships. Newcomers may initially find this focus on efficiency impersonal or rushed. But with time, the appeal of convenience becomes hard to resist. You might find yourself ordering groceries online, microwaving meals, or relying on automation. The trade-off between tradition and convenience becomes a daily choice.

You Start Talking About the Weather Constantly

Weather is a go-to topic for small talk in the U.S., regardless of region. It’s a safe, neutral subject that people use to break the ice. Over time, you might find yourself commenting on sunny days, storms, or temperature swings without thinking. This behavior often mirrors what you hear from others. It serves as a way to bond with acquaintances or strangers. Weather apps also become a regular part of your routine. It’s a subtle but common conversational habit that becomes second nature.

You Become Comfortable Sharing Personal Details Casually

In the U.S., people often talk openly about their lives—jobs, families, even mental health. This level of transparency can be surprising to newcomers from more reserved cultures. Casual conversations may touch on topics that feel private elsewhere. As you acclimate, you may find yourself sharing more freely too. This openness is often seen as a sign of authenticity or connection. It can foster faster relationships but also requires personal boundaries. The behavior shift reflects a broader cultural norm of self-disclosure.

You Get Used to 24/7 Availability of Goods and Services

Many stores and services in the U.S. are open late, and some are open 24/7. This includes pharmacies, diners, and convenience stores. For people from countries with limited hours, the accessibility is shocking at first. Eventually, late-night grocery runs or online orders at midnight feel normal. The idea that you can get what you need at almost any time changes your behavior. It encourages spontaneity and reduces the need to plan ahead. This availability becomes a key part of American life.

You Begin Celebrating American Holidays

After moving to the U.S., you’ll likely find yourself participating in holidays like Thanksgiving, Halloween, and the Fourth of July. Even if you don’t celebrate them traditionally, it’s common to engage in the festivities. These holidays often include community events, decorations, and food customs. Schools and workplaces may host celebrations, prompting involvement. Over time, many adopt these holidays as part of their annual rhythm. You might even start decorating or cooking traditional American dishes. It becomes a way to connect with the culture and people around you.

You Start Driving on the Right Side Automatically

The U.S. drives on the right side of the road, which can be disorienting for newcomers from left-driving countries. At first, this may require conscious effort and extra caution. Navigating intersections, roundabouts, and highway entrances can feel unfamiliar. With time and regular practice, this becomes second nature. Road signage, lane markings, and driver behavior reinforce the pattern. Eventually, even rental cars in other countries may feel strange if they differ from U.S. standards. This shift is both physical and mental as your driving habits adapt.

You Learn to Fill Out a Lot of Forms

Paperwork is a significant part of American life, from healthcare to job applications to school registration. Forms are required for nearly every official process and often involve detailed personal information. At first, this may seem tedious or excessive compared to more streamlined systems abroad. Over time, you learn to navigate the bureaucracy more efficiently. Many people keep key documents readily available to speed up the process. You also become familiar with terms like “Social Security Number” and “W-2.” Understanding and managing forms becomes an essential skill.

You Start Using Inches, Pounds, and Fahrenheit

Though initially confusing, you begin to use U.S. measurements like inches for height, pounds for weight, and Fahrenheit for temperature. This adaptation is often out of necessity, as products, weather forecasts, and medical information use these units. You might find yourself converting at first, then gradually internalizing the numbers. For example, you recognize that 70°F is warm and that a gallon of milk is standard. These conversions slowly become intuitive. Eventually, the metric system may start to feel less familiar.

You Become More Aware of Personal Space

Americans generally prefer a larger personal space bubble compared to other cultures. Standing too close in public or during conversations may be perceived as intrusive. Newcomers often notice this immediately, especially in queues or public transit. Adapting means maintaining about an arm’s length distance in most social contexts. Over time, this spatial awareness becomes instinctive. It reflects broader cultural values of privacy and autonomy. Respecting this invisible boundary is key to comfortable interactions.

You Get Used to the Emphasis on Individualism

The U.S. places a strong cultural focus on individual rights, personal choices, and self-expression. This can contrast with collectivist cultures that prioritize group harmony or family decisions. Over time, you may begin to value personal freedom and independence more deeply. This is seen in choices around careers, lifestyles, and even parenting. The shift might include setting personal goals or advocating for your own needs more actively. It doesn’t mean rejecting your background, but integrating new values. The result is a hybrid identity influenced by both cultures.

You Get Comfortable With “Drive-Thru” Everything

Drive-thru culture is a hallmark of American convenience. It goes far beyond fast food—you’ll find drive-thru pharmacies, banks, and even wedding chapels in some states. Initially, this can seem excessive or impersonal. But as the convenience sets in, you may begin to prefer it for routine tasks. It saves time and suits the fast-paced lifestyle many Americans lead. Drive-thru service is especially popular among parents and busy workers. The behavior shift reflects a broader embrace of efficiency.

You Start Scheduling Social Activities in Advance

Spontaneous socializing isn’t as common in many parts of the U.S. People often plan get-togethers, dinners, or playdates days or even weeks in advance. This can be surprising to newcomers used to dropping by friends’ homes unannounced. Gradually, you learn that texting first or scheduling ahead is considered polite. Calendars and planners become tools not just for work, but also for social life. This change helps align with others’ schedules and prevents miscommunication. It’s a behavior shift rooted in time management and respect for others’ availability.

You Learn to Say “Excuse Me” Frequently

Politeness phrases like “excuse me,” “sorry,” and “please” are commonly used in American interactions, even in brief encounters. Saying “excuse me” is expected when passing someone, interrupting, or needing attention. While this may seem overly apologetic or formal at first, it’s considered basic courtesy. Over time, the phrase becomes part of your automatic speech pattern. Using it helps smooth everyday interactions and avoids social friction. It’s a small but important adjustment to American manners.

You Accept That Healthcare Requires Insurance and Appointments

In the U.S., access to healthcare is closely tied to insurance and pre-scheduled appointments. Walk-in visits and universal coverage are rare, unlike in many other countries. Newcomers quickly realize the importance of having health insurance. Navigating co-pays, deductibles, and in-network providers becomes a routine part of life. You also learn that most medical services require scheduling, sometimes weeks in advance. While frustrating at first, adapting to this system becomes necessary for managing your health. It’s a critical behavioral adjustment in the American context.

You Become Comfortable With Diversity and Hyphenated Identities

The U.S. is a highly diverse country with a strong emphasis on multiculturalism. People often identify as hyphenated Americans—such as “Mexican-American” or “Korean-American”—reflecting their blended heritage. You may find yourself embracing or even redefining your own identity. This environment encourages the celebration of cultural roots alongside integration into American society. Participating in cultural festivals, heritage months, or community groups becomes common. Over time, you get used to talking about identity openly and proudly. This shift fosters a broader understanding of belonging and inclusivity.