Pul-e Khumrī, Afghanistan

Capital City

With a population of just 113,500, Pul-e Khumrī is a modest provincial capital far removed from the chaos of Kabul. The economy relies heavily on agriculture, mining, and textile production, offering few high-paying jobs for the college-educated. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the city has seen its share of Taliban violence in recent years, including a 2019 assault that was repelled by Afghan forces. While Pul-e Khumrī may appeal to those seeking a quieter life, it's hardly the place for ambitious professionals or thrill-seekers.