Living in the U.S.: Easy or Difficult? The truths and Experiences

The question “Is living in the U.S. easy or difficult?” receives significant attention from Vietnamese people planning to immigrate to the United States. This article will analyze various aspects of life in the U.S, from opportunities to challenges, giving you a comprehensive view before making this important decision.

Advantages of living in the U.S

The United States maintains its position as the world’s largest economy with a diverse labor market. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the current unemployment rate is 3.8% (as of May 2025), lower than that of many other developed countries.

The United States is the world’s largest economy with a diverse labor market

In particular, industries such as:

• Information technology

• Healthcare

• Renewable energy

• Artificial intelligence and automation

The U.S. education system, with many top universities such as Harvard, MIT, and Stanford, provides an ideal learning environment. This benefits not only those pursuing postgraduate studies but also offers excellent opportunities for their children.

According to the 2024 Times Higher Education report, 8 out of the 10 best universities in the world are in the United States, demonstrating the country’s superior education quality.

The U.S. is known as a “melting pot” with cultural, religious, and ethnic diversity. In major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, you can easily find large Vietnamese communities.

The Vietnamese community in the U.S. currently numbers approximately 2.2 million (according to the 2020 U.S. Census), providing new immigrants with opportunities to integrate while maintaining their cultural identity.

The United States has a healthcare system with some of the world’s most advanced technology. Hospitals and medical centers such as Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, and Johns Hopkins Hospital are consistently ranked among the top globally for treatment quality.

Challenges of living in the U.S

High cost of living

One of the biggest challenges of living in the U.S. is the high cost of living, especially in major cities. According to Numbeo (a global cost of living data platform), the average monthly expenses for a family of four (excluding rent) in the U.S. are approximately $4,500.

High cost of living is one of the biggest challenges of living in the U.S

Comparison of living costs in some major cities (2025):

Complex and expensive healthcare

Although the U.S. healthcare system is advanced, medical costs are very high without insurance. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, the average health insurance cost for a family through an employer in 2024 is approximately $22,463 per year, with employees contributing about 28% of this cost.

The U.S. health insurance system is complex, with several options:

• Employer-sponsored insurance

• Marketplace plans (under the Affordable Care Act)

• Medicare (for people aged 65 and older)

• Medicaid (for low-income individuals)

Language and cultural barriers

Even though English is widely taught in Vietnam, many Vietnamese people still face difficulties in communication or understanding complex cultural aspects in the U.S. This can affect job opportunities, social integration, and even the quality of healthcare received.

According to a study by the Migration Policy Institute, about 45% of immigrants in the U.S. experience some level of language difficulties during their first five years of residence.

Psychological pressures and homesickness

Living far from home, family, and friends can cause significant psychological stress. According to the American Psychological Association, around 55% of immigrants experience stress and depressive phases during the integration process.

Living experience in the U.S. from those who went before

English is the key to unlocking opportunities in the U.S. Before immigrating, invest time and effort in improving your English skills, especially communication and professional vocabulary.

Each state, and even each city in the U.S., has unique characteristics regarding cost of living, job market, climate, and culture. Thorough research will help you choose a location that fits your needs and financial capacity.

The Vietnamese community in the U.S. is relatively close-knit and always ready to support newcomers. Joining community groups and organizations is a great way to receive help and share experiences.

Whether life in the U.S. is easy or difficult depends on each individual’s circumstances

Conclusion: Is living in the U.S. easy or difficult?

Life in the United States brings both opportunities and challenges. People with strong professional skills, good adaptability, and careful preparation have a higher chance of success. Conversely, without adequate preparation in terms of finances, language, and mental readiness, you may face many difficulties.

According to statistics from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, approximately 77% of legal immigrants in the U.S. report an improved quality of life after five years of residence. This shows that, despite initial challenges, life in the U.S. offers many long-term benefits.

If you are interested in immigrating to the U.S. or seeking a second citizenship, Quoc Tich Thu Hai will be your reliable partner. Our team of experts is ready to advise on U.S. immigration investment programs that suit your needs and financial capacity. From the EB-5 program to other golden visa options, we will help you achieve your American dream safely and effectively, step by step.