Dongying, China

With a population over 2.1 million, Dongying is no sleepy backwater. This industrial hub on China's northeast coast is fueled by the massive Shengli Oilfield, which accounts for much of the city's economy. While the jobs may be plentiful, the climate can be a persistent headache - frigid winters with little snowfall give way to hot, humid summers. And the bureaucracy is a challenge, as evidenced by the number of government districts and divisions. Still, for those drawn to China's energy sector, Dongying offers ample opportunity amidst the industrial landscape.