Ipojuca, Brazil

With a per capita income over $23,000, Ipojuca may seem like a wealthy oasis, but the reality is the bureaucracy is a persistent headache. The population of 105,638 as of 2024 masks the heavy tax burden and infrastructure challenges that come with rapid development centered around the port of Suape. While the stunning beaches like Porto de Galinhas draw tourists, the city's history of colonial conflict and natural disasters is ever-present. Ipojuca may be a magnet for investment, but for the average expat, the tradeoffs likely outweigh the rewards.