Huanggang, China

At over 5.8 million residents, Huanggang is a sprawling metropolis in Hubei Province. The city's history stretches back 2,000 years, but its modern infrastructure remains a mixed bag. While the transportation links are extensive, with highways, railways, and ports, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache. And with the Yangtze River running through, the climate can swing from oppressive heat to heavy rainfall. Still, Huanggang's diverse economy, from herbal medicine to manufacturing, offers opportunities for those willing to navigate the challenges.