Loughrea, Ireland

Loughrea may boast a cathedral and medieval remnants, but make no mistake - this commuter town is firmly in the 21st century. The population has swelled from 4,004 to 6,322 in the past 20 years, driven by an influx of over 400 immigrants from the EU, India, and elsewhere. While the local Irish language initiatives are admirable, persistent bureaucratic headaches are a reality for newcomers. With a gas-powered power station and pharmaceutical industries, Loughrea is a functional, if not particularly charming, option for those seeking a base near Galway.