Pengze, China

The population of 350,000 may seem enticing, but Pengze is not the idyllic Chinese city you might expect. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the proximity of nuclear power plants - including the controversial Daya Bay facility - raises legitimate safety concerns for residents. While China touts its nuclear ambitions, the public opposition and cancellation of projects suggest this technology remains a divisive issue. Overall, Pengze offers little to recommend it beyond raw numbers; this is a city best avoided by those seeking a smooth transition abroad.