Lake Country, Canada

With a population of just 15,817, Lake Country is a sleepy Okanagan backwater better suited to retirees than ambitious young professionals. The median age of 43.2 reflects this demographic, and the average earnings of $24,654 are hardly enough to live comfortably. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the municipality divided into four separate wards, each with its own elected councillor. Yet for those seeking a quiet, pastoral lifestyle close to Kelowna's amenities, Lake Country may have some appeal - though the lack of diversity, with just 12.4% of residents being immigrants, is a potential turnoff.