Monterrey, Mexico

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No longer tethered to an office, workers from the US have been looking to their southern neighbor in search of new settings, easy access to outdoor adventure, and a more affordable cost of living. While Mexico City has gotten most of the attention, just below the border, in the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountains, is what some are calling Mexico’s “most livable city.” With the country’s third-largest population and second-greatest producing power, Monterrey is quietly gaining notoriety for its economic opportunity, developed infrastructure, and natural beauty. After all, newly constructed high rises and one of the world’s largest ranges isn’t a bad backdrop to punch the clock.

Monterrey is Mexico’s third-largest city, second-largest industrial center and No. 1 in per-capita income.

Often referred to as Mexico’s most Americanized city, this economic hub is a bridge between the two North American countries’ economies. And because of Monterrey’s close proximity to the border, several universities there have partnered with Texas institutions to transfer knowledge and encourage innovation.

Lego recently made a $1 billion investment in its Monterrey factory. The city of 1 million also houses operational centers of numerous other multinational companies, including Coca-Cola, Cemex, Dell, and Boeing.

Located in the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountains, one of the word’s largest ranges, Monterrey is an attraction for outdoor enthusiasts.