São José, Brazil

With a population of 139,493, São José is a functional but unremarkable city in southern Brazil. It serves as a gateway to the more glamorous Florianópolis, but lacks the tourist appeal and glitz of its neighbor. The city's rapid development has come at a cost, with persistent bureaucratic headaches for residents. And unlike the scenic island of Florianópolis, São José offers little in the way of natural beauty or recreation. For those seeking an affordable, low-key base to work or do business, São José may fit the bill - but it's hardly the stuff of dreams.