Mount Isa, Australia

Capital City

With a population of just 17,936, Mount Isa is a remote mining town in the Australian outback that's not for the faint of heart. The city's economy is almost entirely dependent on mining, which has left it grappling with environmental issues like lead contamination. And while the hot, dry climate offers plenty of sunshine, it can be brutally harsh, with temperatures reaching over 45°C. Bureaucracy is also a persistent headache, as the city's vast 43,188 sq km jurisdiction makes basic services a logistical challenge. Overall, Mount Isa is best suited for those drawn to its rugged isolation and willing to overlook its considerable downsides.