Batam, Indonesia

This industrial boomtown of over 1.1 million people is no Singapore - the tax burden is heavy, and bureaucracy is a persistent headache. Batam's location 20 km off Singapore's coast has fueled rapid growth, with the population swelling over 8% annually in the 2000s. However, the city has seen setbacks in recent years, with 300,000 workers laid off in 2017. The tropical climate brings heavy rainfall year-round. For those seeking lower costs and proximity to Singapore, Batam may be an option, but it's a far cry from the city-state's efficiency and amenities.