The abundant vegetation, natural springs and high elevation contribute to the region's cool, mild and invigorating climate.

†  Cagayan de Oro and Iligan are highly urbanized cities; figures are excluded from Misamis Oriental and Lanao del Norte respectively.

The vast majority of the region's inhabitants descended from migrants from Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor and Negros Oriental.

Some other inhabitants are of Bicolano, Hiligaynon, Ilocano, Ivatan, Kapampangan, Pangasinan, Tagalog, Waray, Zamboangueño, Maguindanaon, Maranao and Tausug descent, while the autochthonous Bukidnons and Manobos populate the inner highlands.

Tagalog (Filipino) and English are widely understood and often used for administrative functions by the local government, business and in education.

The Agus-IV to VII Hydroelectric Plants in Iligan and Balo-i, Lanao del Norte supply most of its electrical power in Mindanao.