Jaú, Brazil

With a population of just 94,116, Jaú is no bustling metropolis. The city's economy is centered around its "national capital of female shoes", which are exported worldwide. However, the tropical climate and fertile lands come with trade-offs - bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the city's remoteness means access to modern amenities can be spotty.

Jaú's claim to fame is as the birthplace of polibol, a unique court game that blends elements of handball, futsal, and dodgeball. But beyond this niche sport, there's little to recommend the city for the average expat. Unless you're seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle producing shoes for the global market, Jaú is unlikely to be the right fit.