Xunchang, China

With a population of just 118,664, Xunchang is hardly the bustling metropolis one might expect in China. The bureaucracy alone is a persistent headache, and the risk of natural disasters like earthquakes - the region saw 11 major quakes last year alone - is ever-present. While it may offer a lower cost of living compared to China's megacities, this small city is best suited for those seeking a quiet, simple life far from the chaos.