Arviat, Canada

The population of 2,864 may seem modest, but living in Arviat is a far cry from the comforts of southern Canada. Cargo and passenger air service provide the only reliable access, with a sealift available annually. Hunting and fishing are the primary sources of sustenance, a necessity given the town's remote location. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the Nunavut government and federal Senate investigating the possibility of a highway connection - a project that has yet to materialize. For those drawn to the rugged Arctic lifestyle and community's artistic heritage, Arviat may hold appeal. But the harsh subarctic climate, with temperatures rarely climbing above freezing for half the year, is a reality check for anyone considering a move.