Monterrey - Post Report Question and Answers
What is the air quality like at post (good/moderate/bad)? Are there seasonal air quality issues? Does the air quality have an impact on health?
The most persistent and serious health concern in Monterrey is the air quality, which is very bad—and getting worse. The city regularly ranks among the most polluted in North America, with PM2.5 levels often reaching unhealthy levels for days at a time. This is due to a combination of rapid industrial growth, high vehicle emissions, and the city's geography—it sits in a valley where thermal inversions trap polluted air and prevent proper ventilation. The result is a persistent haze and poor air circulation that affects residents year-round. Even individuals without preexisting conditions may develop respiratory symptoms or require medical care. Many expatriates experience chronic coughing, sinus issues, or other ongoing respiratory problems. Homes are typically outfitted with air purifiers, and most offices—especially diplomatic facilities—have filtered air systems, but outdoor exposure remains a daily challenge. For anyone sensitive to air quality, this is a significant factor to consider when moving to Monterrey. - Mar 2025
Moderate/bad. Air qualify fluctuates but ranges between 50 AQI and about 150 AQI+. There is heavy industry just outside town. I'd say the air quality is the biggest drawback to life here (although it doesn't compare to prior places we've lived, like Cairo). - Feb 2021
Bad. Worse when they drill into the mountain and during the summer. - Sep 2018
Air quality can get bad; it is combination of geography and local industry. - Aug 2015
Air quality (and water quality) is good. - Mar 2014
Moderate, pretty good overall. - Oct 2012
The air quality is not great, but it's not awful. The pollution is worse than Mexico City's, but since it is so dry, it's not too bad on people with allergies. - Oct 2010
Most of the time there is a thick layer of smog covering the mountains. Whenever we have a good rain, the smog disappears for a few days and the city is absolutely beautiful!If you have asthma, you might have a few issues here. We all have experienced allergies during the spring season. - Jul 2010
