Port Macquarie, Australia

Capital City

At just under 48,000 residents, Port Macquarie is no sleepy coastal town. With a booming population expected to surge to nearly 60,000 by 2027, this former penal colony turned tourist hub comes with its share of headaches. Bureaucracy is a persistent issue, as the town's rapid growth has outpaced infrastructure - the notorious coastal bar has caused over 20 shipwrecks, and high-rise developments have sparked fierce local battles. Yet the climate remains a major drawcard, with the CSIRO once declaring Port Macquarie the best in Australia thanks to its mild winters and pleasant summers. For those seeking an active, nature-oriented lifestyle in a scenic seaside setting, Port Macquarie may be worth the tradeoffs.