Raanana, Israel

This affluent city of 72,800 is a magnet for American and European expats, but bureaucracy is a persistent headache. With an industrial park housing global tech firms, Raanana is a modern, well-developed hub, but the local climate can be oppressive, and the religious-secular divide is pronounced. While the city boasts top-notch schools and cultural amenities, those seeking a laidback Israeli lifestyle may find Raanana's fast pace and high costs overwhelming.