Jishou, China

With a population of just over 400,000, Jishou is a small, remote city tucked into the mountains of western Hunan. While the GDP per capita of $6,777 may seem enticing, the reality is that Jishou is a bureaucratic headache, with a heavy tax burden and limited transportation options.

About three-quarters of Jishou's residents belong to ethnic minority groups like the Miao and Tujia. The city's economy relies heavily on agriculture, with fruits, vegetables, and tobacco as major exports. Tourism is an emerging industry, but the closest airport is two hours away. For those seeking an authentic, slow-paced Chinese experience, Jishou may hold some appeal. But for most expatriates, the isolation and administrative hassles will likely outweigh any potential upsides.