Xinhe, China

With a population of just 48,712, Xinhe is a modest provincial city that lacks the glamour and opportunities of China's booming megacities. The tax burden is heavy, and bureaucracy is a persistent headache. However, the city does host the prestigious University of Science and Technology of China, which ranks among the top schools in Asia. Overall, Xinhe offers a quieter, more affordable alternative to the coastal hubs, but may disappoint those seeking an international, cosmopolitan lifestyle.