Which factor is most responsible for culture shock? (neighborhood, gated communities)

[Yvanung]

There are obviously multiple factors that affect the cultural shock when moving from an area to another.

Of course, this thread is primarily framed as an issue of moving from one US location to another.

While all of the following play a role, which of the following is most responsible for culture shock?


1) Urban vs. suburban vs. rural

2) Different states

3) Different socioeconomic status (i.e. moving from a working-class neighborhood to an affluent one or vice-versa)

4) Different weather

5) Other (please specify)

[kidphilly]

probably urban versus rural

[JGMotorsport64]

Culture.

The US is very large with different regions varying heavily in lifestyle, food, politics and culture. If you're from and have always lived in Massachusetts the pronounced Spanish speaking population, Hispanic and Native American present of the Southwest would create a bit of shock. Then throw in the change in weather and different urban 'style'.

[DubbleT]

Some of it is odd stuff that I guess some people don't really think about. Whether or not a place is bike friendly, pet friendly, car-centric, housing styles, availability of HOA/gated communities, shopping and entertainment options and so on. I think a lot of people just assume that the types of things available in their area are available everywhere.