Shaoguan, China

The population of 2,855,131 may seem daunting, but the reality is that Shaoguan is a prefecture-level city in northern Guangdong that struggles with bureaucratic headaches. Despite being home to the mummified remains of a Zen Buddhist patriarch, the climate is a persistent challenge - the city sees long, hot, and humid summers, with freezing rain possible in nearby mountain passes during the mild, damp winters. However, the city's location on the Jingguang Railway and major expressways makes it accessible by both rail and road. Overall, Shaoguan is a practical choice for those seeking a more affordable cost of living in southern China, but the weather and bureaucracy may prove to be deterrents for some.