Yunfu, China

This 2.38 million-person city in western Guangdong is no paradise. With over 60% of the land forested, residents face a persistent bureaucratic headache navigating the rural terrain. The subtropical climate brings mild temperatures year-round, but also uneven rainfall and overcast spring skies. On the plus side, Yunfu boasts ample natural resources, including over 50 types of minerals and 670 traditional Chinese medicinal plants. But the city's remoteness and underdeveloped transport links make it better suited for outdoor enthusiasts than careerists seeking opportunity.