Zhonghe, China

With a population of 404,507, Zhonghe is a densely packed district where the daily grind can wear you down. The bureaucratic headaches are a persistent problem, and the subtropical climate brings heavy rains that average over 83 inches per year. However, the city's convenient location just southwest of Taipei and its well-developed transportation network, including multiple metro stations, make it an appealing option for those looking to live in the Taipei metro area on a budget. But the crowded, urban environment may not be for everyone.