Moving to a new country is both exciting and challenging. In the vast and diverse landscape of the United States, expat communities in the USA offer invaluable support, connecting you with individuals who share similar experiences and can assist with daily life, from legal procedures to local recommendations.
How to Find the Right Expat Community for You
If you’re seeking a place to feel understood and supported during this new chapter as a digital nomad in the USA, expat communities are an excellent starting point to build relationships, receive practical advice, and foster a sense of belonging.
1. InterNations – Global Expat Community in the USA
InterNations is one of the largest and most active expat communities in the USA, with a presence in major cities like New York, San Francisco, and Miami. This platform connects over 4 million expatriates worldwide, focusing on both professional and social support for those relocating to a new country.
The InterNations community in the USA is incredibly diverse, including expatriates from Europe, Asia, and Latin America. It’s common to meet individuals from the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Brazil at their events. In addition to organizing in-person gatherings in various cities, InterNations offers online groups where expatriates can share advice, experiences, and recommendations about life in the United States.
Each city chapter hosts monthly events in bars, restaurants, and cultural venues, creating networking opportunities and social gatherings that facilitate integration into local life. For those who prefer digital connections, the platform provides forums and Facebook groups for members to interact and seek assistance on topics ranging from immigration procedures to housing recommendations.
2. Americans Overseas – European Community in the USA
Americans Overseas serves as a key community for European expatriates aiming to settle in the United States, particularly in cities like Boston, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Founded by Europeans living in the USA, this community comprises hundreds of expatriates primarily from the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium, but also welcomes individuals from other European countries seeking connections with those from similar cultural backgrounds.
Members of Americans Overseas often gather in neighborhoods with a strong international presence, frequenting European-style cafes in Manhattan or pubs in San Francisco’s international districts. Beyond social events, the community offers workshops and online talks covering topics from adapting to U.S. tax laws to finding employment in the country.
Through their Facebook group and Reddit forum, Americans Overseas facilitates connections between expatriates and experts who assist with legal, employment, or emotional support matters. These forums provide recommendations on the best areas to live, insights into the education system, and advice on making local friends.
3. Expat.com – International Network in the United States
With a global presence in various cities, Expat.com has established a significant footprint in the United States, becoming an essential platform for expatriates seeking connections and adaptation support in their new home. The community is particularly active in cities like Washington D.C., Dallas, and Miami, where thousands of expatriates from diverse countries support each other.
Expat.com boasts notable cultural diversity, with members from India, Canada, the Philippines, and Mexico seeking guidance on adjusting to life in the USA. A highly valued feature is its online forum, where members post questions and receive prompt answers on various aspects of daily life, from bureaucratic procedures to public transport tips.
In major cities, Expat.com organizes regular meetups, allowing members to connect in person—particularly beneficial for those looking to make new friends or professional contacts. Events held in parks, bars, and cultural centers create a relaxed environment for expatriates to share experiences and receive guidance on overcoming initial challenges in a new country.
4. Mexicano USA – Mexican Community in the United States
Mexicano USA is one of the largest and most active expat communities in the USA for Mexicans, especially concentrated in cities with significant Latino populations like Los Angeles, Houston, and Chicago. This community comprises hundreds of thousands of Mexicans seeking to maintain their cultural roots while integrating into American life.
With a robust presence in both in-person events and digital platforms, Mexicano USA offers a space where expatriates can find support on immigration, employment, and cultural adaptation matters. Members frequently gather at cultural events such as festivals, national celebrations, and sports activities that promote a sense of community.
Through their Facebook page, which has thousands of followers, expatriates exchange information on topics ranging from processing documents to finding the best Mexican restaurants in their city. In places like Los Angeles and Houston, Mexicano USA’s in-person events enable Mexican expatriates to connect with compatriots and share experiences that help them navigate the adaptation process in a new country without losing their cultural identity.
5. Just Landed – International Expat Community
Just Landed is an international platform that has built a solid expat community in the USA, assisting thousands of expatriates in finding their footing in the country. With a practical focus, Just Landed offers a mix of guides, forums, and online resources covering all aspects of expat life, from finding accommodation to integrating into the U.S. job market.
While open to expatriates worldwide, it’s especially popular among Europeans and Latin Americans settling in cities like Miami, New York, and San Francisco. Just Landed is a valuable resource not only for its information but also for connecting expatriates with local experts who can advise on legal and tax matters—vital for those planning an extended stay in the United States.
The community maintains an active Facebook group and Reddit forum where expatriates can ask questions, share experiences, and offer recommendations on the best neighborhoods to live in, navigating the healthcare system, or building a professional network in a new environment. Just Landed also organizes virtual and in-person meetups in major cities, allowing members to strengthen their networks while adapting to life in the USA.
6. Aussies in America – Australian Expat Community in the USA
Aussies in America is a vibrant community connecting Australian expatriates living in the United States. With a strong presence in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, this community has grown exponentially in recent years. It focuses on creating a sense of belonging and supporting Australians in adapting to life in the USA.
Members frequently organize barbecues, sporting events, and other gatherings that celebrate Australian culture. These events provide a space to share experiences, connect with compatriots, and help new arrivals feel at home. Additionally, Aussies in America offers support for navigating U.S. systems, such as healthcare and education, which can be complex for newcomers.
The community also maintains an active presence on social media platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, where members exchange advice, share job opportunities, and post updates about upcoming events. For Australians in the U.S., Aussies in America is an invaluable resource for staying connected to their roots while embracing life in a new country.
7. Latinx in New York – Latin Community
Latinx in New York is a vibrant community that brings together Latin American expatriates residing in the Big Apple. With a significant presence in neighborhoods like Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx, this group offers support to those adapting to life in the United States while preserving their cultural roots.
The community organizes events such as cultural festivals, dance workshops, and culinary gatherings that celebrate Latin American heritage. These activities provide opportunities to connect with fellow expatriates and share experiences related to immigration, employment, and education.
Through active Facebook groups and WhatsApp chats, members exchange information about job opportunities, housing, and legal advice. This digital presence facilitates quick and efficient communication, allowing newcomers to integrate more smoothly into New York’s dynamic environment.
8. Brits in the USA – British Community
Brits in the USA is a well-established community that supports British expatriates across the United States. With active groups in cities like Boston, Chicago, and Seattle, this community helps newcomers adjust to American life while maintaining connections to British culture.
Members frequently organize social events, including pub nights, football match viewings, and traditional British holiday celebrations. These gatherings offer a sense of familiarity and comfort, making the transition to a new country more manageable.
The community also provides resources on navigating the U.S. healthcare system, understanding tax obligations, and finding employment. Through online forums and social media platforms, Brits in the USA fosters a supportive network where expatriates can seek advice and share experiences.
9. Indians in America – Indian Expat Community in the USA
Indians in America is a thriving community that connects Indian expatriates living throughout the United States. With significant populations in cities like San Francisco, Houston, and Atlanta, this group offers support in cultural adaptation, professional networking, and social integration.
The community organizes events such as Diwali celebrations, Bollywood movie nights, and culinary festivals that showcase Indian traditions. These activities help maintain cultural ties and provide a sense of belonging among members.
Through active online platforms, including Facebook groups and dedicated websites, Indians in America offers guidance on immigration processes, job searches, and educational opportunities. The community also facilitates connections with local Indian businesses and services, making it easier for newcomers to settle into their new environment.
Tips for integrating into expatriate communities in the US.
Being part of an expat community in the USA is a great way to quickly adapt to your new environment, but fully integrating into these networks requires more than attending events. While it’s easy to start by connecting through online groups or participating in local meetings, the important thing is to maintain an open and proactive attitude. Most communities value the contributions of their members. So offering your help at events, sharing useful experiences or simply being an active participant in online conversations, will make you feel more integrated and respected.
In addition, many of these communities are multilingual. This means that, although most interactions can be in English, it is possible to find subgroups of native speakers of your language. Take advantage of these opportunities to learn about other countries and cultures. This will further enrich your experience in the US and open doors to new friendships and professional contacts.
How to find the ideal expatriate community for you
With so many options for expatriate communities in the US, it’s important to identify which one best suits your needs. For some, the most important thing may be to find a community that shares their language or culture, while others may be more focused on professional support and networking opportunities. Platforms such as InterNations or Expat.com offer filters by interests, which makes it easy to find communities that align with your priorities.
You can also explore forums on Reddit or specific Facebook groups, which are particularly useful for finding recommendations on the best areas to live, tips on daily life or work recommendations.
Another option is to attend international events or cultural fairs that many American cities organize. These events will not only allow you to meet people from different expatriate communities. But they can also be an excellent opportunity to expand your network of contacts and discover new activities in which to participate. Finding the ideal community is key to making your experience as an expatriate in the United States a smoother and more rewarding transition.
