Trois-Rivières, Canada

Capital City

With a population of 144,472, Trois-Rivières is a mid-sized city struggling to keep up with its big-city neighbors Montreal and Quebec City. The harsh continental climate, with frigid winters and sweltering summers, is a persistent headache for residents. And the city's industrial history has left it with a bureaucratic tangle that makes getting things done a real challenge.

On the plus side, Trois-Rivières has tried to diversify its economy, establishing technology parks and taking advantage of its central location. The city also hosts an impressive array of festivals and cultural events, cementing its reputation as the "Poetry Capital of Quebec." But the reality is that Trois-Rivières is a faded industrial town, best suited for those who prize affordability and a slower pace of life over big-city amenities.