Nogales, Mexico

Capital City

Nogales is a bustling border town with a population of 261,137, but don't let the numbers fool you - the bureaucracy is a persistent headache, and the semi-arid climate can be a challenge. The city's strategic location as a major port of entry for US tourists and Mexican produce exports has fueled rapid growth, yet poverty remains stubbornly high at just under 30%. If you can tolerate the bureaucratic hassles and the occasional bout of freezing weather, Nogales may offer opportunities, but it's not for the faint of heart.