I moved from Wisconsin to New York City a decade ago. Here are 10 things that now surprise me when I visit the Midwest.

Talia LakritzJan 15, 2024, 23:07 IST

General Mitchell Airport in Wisconsin (left) versus LaGuardia Airport in New York City.Talia Lakritz/Business Insider ; Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

I moved from Wisconsin to New York City over 10 years ago.
The Midwest still surprises me with its lower prices, larger stores, and emptier airports.

Since moving from Wisconsin to New York City 10 years ago, I don't get to travel back to visit friends and family as often as I'd like to.

The longer I go without visiting the Midwest, the more novel it feels when I do return.

Here are 10 aspects of life in the Midwest that surprise me a decade after moving to New York.

The airport I fly to in Wisconsin is much emptier than any New York travel hub.

General Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

Midwestern accents are stronger than I remember.

Costco in Wisconsin, where it's pronounced "Cah-stco."Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

Plastic carry-out bags are still available in Midwestern states.

A plastic shopping bag at Sendik's.Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

Stores are much larger outside of New York City.

Target in Wisconsin.Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

Nationwide retailers like Costco stock locally made products that aren't available elsewhere.

Cheese curds at Costco in Wisconsin.Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

Some Midwestern grocery stores feature walk-in beer coolers.

Piggly Wiggly's walk-in beer fridge.Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

While many New York City stores keep items in locked cases, I'm pleasantly surprised when I can shop more freely in the Midwest.

Target in the Midwest (left) and New York City.Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

Prices for things like gas and milk are significantly lower in the Midwest.

Gas prices in the Midwest in November.Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

Football season is a big deal.

A Green Bay Packers banner at a grocery store in Wisconsin.Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

Midwestern friendliness can feel like a culture shock.

Hiking the Seven Bridges Trail.Talia Lakritz/Business Insider

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