Ciudad Rio Bravo, Mexico

Capital City

With a population of just 95,647, Ciudad Rio Bravo is hardly the bustling metropolis many Americans imagine when they think of moving to Mexico. The city's location along the US border in northeastern Tamaulipas state means it's a convenient industrial hub, but don't expect a laidback, coastal lifestyle. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the municipality's sprawling 1,562 square kilometer area means getting around can be a chore. Overall, Ciudad Rio Bravo is best suited for those seeking affordable access to manufacturing jobs, not sun-soaked retirement.