Erechim, Brazil

Life in Erechim, Brazil is no picnic - the tax burden is heavy, bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and crime rates remain stubbornly high. The city's population of just over 72,000 makes it the 19th largest municipality in the state, with a population density of 223.11 inhabitants per km². Winters can be bitterly cold, occasionally even bringing rare snowfall. And while the city's Human Development Index is considered "high" by UN standards, the poverty rate still hovers around 26%. That said, Erechim's thriving industrial sector, vibrant cultural scene, and scenic natural surroundings may appeal to those seeking a more affordable alternative to Brazil's crowded megacities.