When people think of the differences between Brits and Americans, the first thing that often comes to mind is the accent.
But the truth is, there’s so much more that sets these two cultures apart subtle everyday behaviors, traditions, preferences, and ways of seeing the world. These cultural quirks can come as a surprise to travelers and expats alike.
Whether you’re planning a trip, moving abroad, or just curious, here are 24 cultural differences between the UK and the USA none of which have anything to do with how people sound when they speak.
1. The Meaning of “How Are You?”
- UK: It’s a greeting, not a literal question. A simple “I’m fine, thanks” will do.
- USA: It’s often an opening to a short catch-up. Americans may offer updates about their day or well-being.
2. The Importance of Apologizing
- Brits apologize constantly, even when it’s not their fault. It’s about politeness.
- Americans apologize when they’ve done something wrong. Less about politeness, more about accountability.
3. Toothpaste Smiles
- Americans are known for their bright, straight teeth. Dental care is a top priority.
- Brits are more relaxed about smiles and dental aesthetics.
4. Talking to Strangers
- Americans often strike up casual conversations with strangers, in elevators, in line, etc.
- Brits tend to keep to themselves and may find small talk intrusive.
5. Queuing Culture
- Brits are famously disciplined when it comes to lining up, queues are sacred.
- Americans queue too, but not with the same near-religious reverence.
6. Driving on the “Correct” Side
- UK: Drive on the left side of the road.
- USA: Drive on the right side of the road. This impacts everything from pedestrian flow to roundabouts.
7. School Uniforms
- Most British children wear uniforms from primary through secondary school.
- In the U.S., uniforms are more common in private or religious schools, not public ones.
8. Bank Holidays vs. Federal Holidays
- Brits call public holidays “bank holidays.”
- Americans call them “federal holidays,” and there are more of them overall.
9. Sports Preferences
- UK: Football (aka soccer), rugby, and cricket dominate.
- USA: American football, baseball, basketball, and ice hockey are the main events.
10. Portion Sizes
- American servings are significantly larger, especially in restaurants.
- Brits eat more modest portions by comparison.
11. The Tipping Culture
- In the U.S., tipping 15-20% is standard and expected in most service industries.
- In the UK, tipping is more restrained and typically reserved for exceptional service.
12. Driving Tests
- The UK driving test is longer, harder, and includes more rigorous evaluations.
- The U.S. version is often quicker and considered easier.
13. Health Insurance
- UK: The NHS provides healthcare for all, mostly free at the point of service.
- USA: Healthcare is privatized and expensive; insurance is necessary and often employer-provided.
14. Humor Styles
- British humor is known for its sarcasm, dryness, and subtlety.
- American humor tends to be more direct, energetic, and sometimes slapstick.
15. Public Transport Norms
- Brits use public transport regularly and often rely on trains and buses.
- Americans, especially outside big cities, rely heavily on cars.
16. Measurements
- UK uses a mix: kilometers for distance, Celsius for temperature, and grams for weight.
- USA sticks to imperial: miles, Fahrenheit, pounds.
17. Television Licenses
- Brits pay an annual TV license fee to fund the BBC.
- Americans don’t have a TV license system, public channels are ad-funded or supported by donations.
18. College vs. University
- Brits say “university” (or “uni” for short).
- Americans say “college” even for four-year universities.
19. The Legal Drinking Age
- UK: Legal drinking age is 18.
- USA: Legal drinking age is 21, strictly enforced.
20. Customer Service Attitudes
- American service culture is friendly, upbeat, and attentive.
- British service can be polite but less overtly enthusiastic.
21. Bathroom Terminology
- UK: “Loo” or “toilet.”
- USA: “Bathroom” or “restroom”- even if there’s no bath involved.
22. Sense of National Pride
- Americans are often openly patriotic, with flags flying on homes and schools.
- Brits are more reserved with nationalism, except during royal events or sports finals.
23. Greeting Style
- Brits tend to say a simple “Hello” or “Hiya” with a nod.
- Americans are more likely to use friendly enthusiasm-“Hey! How’s it going?”
24. Outlets and Voltage
- UK uses 230 volts and three-prong outlets.
- USA uses 120 volts and two-prong or three-prong plugs. Don’t forget your travel adapter!
Alicia Richards