Spruce Grove, Canada

With a population of just 37,645, Spruce Grove may seem like a sleepy commuter town west of Edmonton. But don't let the small size fool you - the bureaucracy here is a persistent headache, and the harsh winters can be brutal. On the plus side, the city boasts a thriving sports scene, with young athletes like mogul skier Jennifer Heil and soccer star Stephanie Labbé hailing from the area. If you don't mind the red tape and can handle the frigid climate, Spruce Grove could be a good fit for families looking to escape the big city while staying close to Edmonton.