Suifenhe, China

With a population of just 114,564, Suifenhe is a small, isolated outpost on the Sino-Russian border. The frigid, dry winters and short, humid summers make the climate a persistent headache. Bureaucracy is also a major obstacle, as this is one of the only Chinese cities where trading in Russian rubles is officially allowed.

The city's location as a rail and road border crossing is its main draw, facilitating trade between China and Russia. However, the lack of passenger rail service and the distance from major population centers mean Suifenhe is best suited for those with specific business interests along the border, not general expats seeking an easy life abroad.