Rockhampton, Australia

Capital City

With a population of just 63,151, Rockhampton is a sleepy regional city struggling to punch above its weight. The city's once-booming economy centered around mining and agriculture has shown signs of decline, while the hot, humid climate and occasional cyclone damage are constant headaches for locals. Bureaucracy is a persistent annoyance, with a long-running secessionist movement highlighting the city's feeling of neglect by the state capital Brisbane. While Rockhampton boasts historic architecture and cultural attractions, its remote location and economic challenges make it a tough sell for most Australians looking to relocate.