Xinji, China

With a population of 594,628, Xinji is a sizable county-level city in China's Hebei province. However, this inland location in North China comes with some significant drawbacks. Air pollution is a serious concern, especially during the winter heating season when PM2.5 levels routinely exceed safety standards. The bureaucratic apparatus also appears to be a persistent headache, with eight towns and seven townships under the city's jurisdiction.

While Xinji's main industry is leather, the local economy likely offers limited opportunities for foreigners. The city's remote, landlocked position and challenging environmental conditions make it a dubious choice for most expats seeking a comfortable, cosmopolitan lifestyle in China. Unless you have a strong stomach for red tape and poor air quality, Xinji is probably best avoided.