Huaibei, China

With a population of 1.97 million, Huaibei is no quaint backwater. This industrial powerhouse in northern Anhui boasts a thriving economy driven by coal, textiles, and chemicals. However, the local bureaucracy can be a persistent headache, and the hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters may prove challenging for some. Still, the city's diverse industries, extensive transportation links, and wealth of natural resources make it an attractive option for those seeking economic opportunity in China.