Most Common:
* English: The dominant language in Monterey, as it is in most of the United States.
* Spanish: A significant portion of the population in Monterey speaks Spanish, due to its history as a Spanish colony and its proximity to Mexico.
Other Languages:
* Other Romance Languages: French and Italian are also spoken by some residents, due to historical immigration patterns and cultural influences.
* Indigenous Languages: While not widely spoken today, the Ohlone language (originally spoken by the native people of the area) is seeing a resurgence in interest and efforts to revitalize it.
Specific Factors Influencing Language Use:
* Tourism: Monterey is a popular tourist destination, so many people in the service industry are bilingual or multilingual.
* Education: The schools in Monterey offer instruction in Spanish, reflecting the city's diverse linguistic makeup.
* Immigration: Monterey continues to attract immigrants from various parts of the world, contributing to the linguistic diversity of the city.
Overall: Monterey offers a vibrant and diverse linguistic landscape, reflecting its historical heritage, cultural influences, and current population demographics.