Tuusula, Finland

With a population of just over 41,000, Tuusula is a sleepy Helsinki suburb that has more than doubled in size since the 1970s. While it offers a quieter pace of life, the area's bureaucracy can be a persistent headache for newcomers. The town is home to an artistic community that was once attracted by the scenic Tuusulanjärvi lake, but it's now primarily a commuter town, with two-thirds of jobs in the service sector. Tuusula may appeal to Finns seeking an affordable alternative to living in the capital, but it's unlikely to dazzle international transplants.