Fort St. John, Canada

Living in Fort St. John is no walk in the park. With a population of just 16,051, this remote outpost in northeastern British Columbia is a far cry from the glitz of Vancouver. The tax burden is heavy, and the frigid climate - with temperatures plunging below -53°C - is a persistent headache. On the plus side, the province's booming oil and gas industry has fueled rapid growth, doubling the population every 5 years for 15 years. But the high crime rate, 80% above the provincial average, is a serious concern. If you're looking for an adventure in the great white north and can handle the bureaucratic red tape, Fort St. John might be worth a look. Otherwise, you're better off elsewhere.