Chenlou, China

With a population of 1,462,563, Chenlou is no sleepy backwater. But the reality on the ground is far from the glossy brochures - bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the area is relatively impoverished compared to the rest of the province. The city's claim to fame is its 60km avenue of Dawn redwood trees, but that's unlikely to be a selling point for most expats.

Ultimately, Chenlou is best suited for those willing to grapple with China's notorious red tape in exchange for lower living costs. For the average westerner seeking an easy overseas life, this city is probably a tough sell.