Matamoros - Post Report Question and Answers
How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
In Matamoros, not many people speak English. Many people on the Texas side will speak Spanish as a first language. Having an adequate level of Spanish will make your life much easier. That being said, you can conduct much of your life outside of work in Texas so you can probably get by using just English most of the time when you're on the Texas side. - Aug 2021
Speaking Spanish helps, but not necessary. Post offered free lessons. - Apr 2018
To function in Matamoros with local businesses etc, Spanish is necessary. However, it is possible to hardly ever interact with locals by doing all business in Brownsville. Most of the educated Mexican nationals that live in our housing areas speak English. - Aug 2016
You need to speak Spanish in Matamoros and it helps in Brownsville. - Aug 2015
Surprisingly enough, having Spanish is important. Even though you can literally see the US from your 2nd story window, you still need to be able to speak Spanish to communicate with the average Matamorense. It's also not uncommon to go into a store in the US and the employee or cashier there doesn't speak English. - Feb 2012
