Huzhou, China

With a population of 3.37 million, Huzhou is a major city in northern Zhejiang, but its economy and infrastructure can't match the glitz of Shanghai or Hangzhou. The tax burden is heavy, with fiscal revenue making up 13.2% of the city's GDP. And bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as Huzhou is the headquarters of a major People's Liberation Army group. On the plus side, the climate is subtropical and mild, with abundant rainfall - though the seasonal wind shifts can be extreme. Overall, Huzhou is best suited for retirees and those seeking a more affordable, laidback lifestyle in eastern China, away from the frenzy of the megacities.