Vancouver, Canada

Prepare to pay through the nose for a shoebox-sized apartment - Vancouver is one of the most unaffordable cities in the world, with the average two-level home selling for nearly $1 million. The population has exploded to 662,248, but the city's sprawling geographic footprint and high population density means long commutes and persistent housing headaches. On the upside, locals enjoy a mild, rainy climate, abundant outdoor recreation, and a thriving cultural scene. However, the bureaucracy around zoning and development can be a real slog. Overall, Vancouver offers an appealing lifestyle for those who can afford the steep cost of living.