Romeo Santos was born in The Bronx, New York City, to a Dominican father and Puerto Rican mother. He grew up in a working-class family with two older siblings. His father worked in construction, and his mother was a stay-at-home mom. Santos has spoken fondly about his upbringing and credits his family for instilling in him a strong work ethic and a love for music. He often pays tribute to his heritage and family in his songs and performances.