Qaraqash, China

With a population of over 571,000, Qaraqash is no sleepy backwater. But life here is far from idyllic - the bureaucratic headaches and occasional violence make it a tough sell for most expats. The county has a 98% Uyghur population, with the Han Chinese making up just 2.3% as of 2015. And the region has seen its share of unrest, from police killings to mosque raids and attacks on government offices. While the county produces cotton, corn, and other crops, the harsh desert climate and remote location mean getting basic services can be a persistent challenge. Unless you're prepared to navigate heavy-handed security and a grinding administrative machine, Qaraqash is probably not the China outpost you had in mind.