Mairiporã, Brazil

With a population of just under 40,000, this suburban municipality north of São Paulo is hardly the bustling metropolis many Brazilians may expect. The cost of living is lower than in the state capital, but bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the subtropical climate can be oppressive during the summer months. Mairiporã's location within the lush Cantareira State Park makes it an appealing option for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a break from the big city, but its relative isolation means it may not be the best fit for those seeking an urban lifestyle.