Zibihu, China

With a population of just 56,246, this small city is hardly the sprawling metropolis many imagine when moving to China. The reality is a persistent bureaucratic headache and an unforgiving climate that will test the resolve of all but the most dedicated expats. While the text provides no specific crime statistics, the high-fatality earthquakes that regularly rock this region are a sobering reminder of the risks. Zibihu is best suited for adventurous types who can tolerate a slow pace of life and don't mind dealing with red tape.