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She Moved From Los Angeles To Rhode Island And Never Expected The Culture Shock

profile Emily Chan | Oct 2, 2025
Oct 2, 2025
Newport, Rhode Island, USA
Paul James Bannerman - stock.adobe.com - illustrative purposes only

Back in May, TikToker Alyssa (@alyssaamoroso) moved from Los Angeles to Rhode Island, trading the hustle and bustle of the big city for a slower pace of life.

However, she did not anticipate just how different day-to-day living would feel when moving from a metropolis to a smaller, quieter town.

“I don’t remember feeling this stressed when I moved from New York City to LA,” Alyssa stated. “I think just because I was in a big city both times, but moving to a small town, like a chill area…I’m trying to make a doctor’s appointment, and there’s a doctor shortage.”

Additionally, if she wants to go to Costco, she has to drive to Massachusetts because there are no Costcos in Rhode Island. It’s the little things of this kind of nature that have really thrown her off.

In the big city, options are plentiful, but in her new small-town setting, it’s not as easy to gain access to certain things. Simple errands become more complicated, and it’s just a whole new change of pace.

For Alyssa, the adjustment from endless convenience to a slower, more spread-out lifestyle is ongoing.

Furthermore, no one could’ve prepared her for the accents. Everyone in the area has the thickest New England drawl, which takes some getting used to.

Many locals encouraged her to embrace her new home and listed all of this tiny state’s unique charms. Rhode Island may not be LA, but it has plenty of character and will make you fall in love.

“Hi! Born and raised in Rhode Island. Certain parts are also very rich in Portuguese culture. Bristol/Newport are a lot of fun in the summer. We have the oldest 4th of July parade in the country,” commented one person.

Newport, Rhode Island, USA
Paul James Bannerman – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only

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“Get ready for some great food! Most of the restaurants are private-owned restaurants, and they are making food that is original to their culture. We have a mixed melting pot of nationalities, which is wonderful. The accents, however, will take some time to get used to and understand,” wrote another.

“Welcome! Rhode Island has so much going on!! It’s quirky, but it grows on you. So many little hidden gems everywhere!” exclaimed a third.

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By Emily Chan

Emily Chan is a writer who covers lifestyle and news content. She graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in... More about Emily Chan