Monterrey - Post Report Question and Answers

What do you wish you had known about this particular city/country before moving there?

Monterrey is arguably the most important city in North America that no one outside the region really talks about. It’s a powerhouse of industry, manufacturing, and commerce, strategically located near the U.S. border, and deeply connected to global supply chains. That economic strength makes it a very livable and modern city, with excellent healthcare, private schools, services, and infrastructure. It's not a tourist destination, though, and it doesn’t pretend to be. Unlike places like Mexico City, Oaxaca, or Guadalajara, Monterrey isn’t filled with historic plazas or museums on every corner. Instead, it’s a city built for working professionals and families who prioritize comfort, stability, and access to nature. The beauty here lies in daily life: mountain views during your commute, great dining, reliable services, and weekend escapes to nearby towns or flights to the beach. If you arrive expecting cobblestone streets and colonial charm, you might be disappointed. If you embrace Monterrey for what it is: a modern, no-nonsense city with deep regional pride and a strong focus on quality of life, it can be a deeply satisfying place to live. Just make sure you plan your travel fixes elsewhere. - Mar 2025


I wish I'd stocked up less on supplies. With Costco here, it's comparable pricing and easy to buy whatever you need (with the exception of patio furniture and clothing, but those can be easily ordered online and shipped here). - Feb 2021


How rich and expensive it is. Even 16 year olds get Beemers here. - Sep 2018


Nothing really. - Mar 2014


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