Esperance, Australia

Capital City

Esperance's remote location and small population of just 10,218 make it a tough sell for many. The town serves as the gateway to the Goldfields, but its economy is largely dependent on tourism, agriculture, and fishing - industries that can be volatile and weather-dependent. In 2007, a toxic spill of lead and nickel contaminated the local environment, requiring a multimillion-dollar cleanup. And while the region boasts picturesque beaches and national parks, the unpredictable Mediterranean climate, with wide variations from hot summer days to cold, wet winters, is a persistent headache. For those seeking a laidback coastal lifestyle far from the crowds, Esperance may be an option, but its isolation and limited economic opportunities make it a poor fit for most.