Waterloo, Canada

Waterloo may attract high-tech workers with its educated population and low unemployment, but residents face a constant headache from bureaucracy - the city has fought for decades over the best way to provide fire services. With a population of 121,436, the city has grown 15.7% since 2016, driven by the presence of two major universities and a thriving insurance and tech sector. However, the weather is not for the faint of heart, with temperatures reaching over 30°C several times each humid summer. While Waterloo offers good job prospects, its combination of red tape and harsh climate make it best suited for those who can tolerate a bit of frustration in exchange for economic opportunity.