Cornélio Procópio, Brazil

With a population of just 46,644, Cornélio Procópio is a sleepy backwater in the heart of Brazil's interior. The city's origins trace back to a railway station established in the late 19th century, which attracted a wave of settlers from São Paulo and Minas Gerais. While the railroad spurred economic growth, it also brought a persistent bureaucratic headache, as the project required complex federal approvals that dragged on for years. Today, the city remains closely tied to its railway roots, serving as a hub for agricultural exports. For those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle far from Brazil's bustling metropolises, Cornélio Procópio may hold some appeal - but the lack of amenities and remote location make it a poor fit for most expats.