Itaquera, Brazil

The population of Itaquera stands at 204,871, but that number hardly tells the full story. This working-class district on the outskirts of São Paulo has seen rapid development, yet bureaucracy and infrastructure challenges remain a persistent headache. The area is becoming increasingly industrialized, with banks and a major shopping center taking root, but the legacy of Itaquera's piecemeal growth is evident in its haphazard layout and spotty public services. For those seeking an affordable foothold in the São Paulo metro area, Itaquera may hold promise, but it's not for the faint of heart.