Evere, Belgium

At just over 43,000 residents squeezed into 5 square kilometers, Evere boasts a population density on par with many crowded Asian megacities. The tax burden is heavy and the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache, but the municipality does offer some advantages - it's home to NATO's headquarters and several major international companies have set up shop nearby.

The character of Evere has shifted dramatically since its rural, agricultural roots, with the explosion of population and urbanization after World War II. Today, the former market gardens have given way to office parks and residential development. While the town hosts a rugby club and has decent rail connections, the loss of green space is likely a trade-off many will find difficult to stomach.

Ultimately, Evere caters to a specific type of resident - one drawn to the international corporate presence and willing to navigate the challenges of dense city living. For those seeking a more tranquil, nature-oriented lifestyle, this Brussels municipality may prove a poor fit.