Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic

With a population of just 58,803, Jarabacoa is hardly the bustling metropolis some imagine when moving to the Dominican Republic. The economy is largely agricultural, centered around crops like strawberries, coffee, and peppers. And while the mountain setting offers natural beauty, the climate is unpredictable - the coldest temperature on record was a chilly 7.1°C. Bureaucracy can also be a persistent headache, as the town was only formally founded in 1858. Overall, Jarabacoa seems best suited for retirees and those seeking a tranquil, rural lifestyle away from the coast.