Poá, Brazil

With just 76,302 residents, Poá is one of the smallest municipalities in São Paulo state. While it's designated a "spa town" by the state government, the lack of investment means the tourism sector remains underdeveloped. The economy is service-focused, with a ban on polluting industries since 1970. However, bureaucracy is a persistent headache - the city center's verticalization is actively discouraged to preserve its small-town feel. Poá may appeal to those seeking a quieter lifestyle, but its limited resources and red tape make it a questionable choice for most expats.