Masterton, New Zealand

With a population of just 21,400, Masterton is a sleepy provincial town that operates as the seat of the Masterton District. Services for the surrounding farming region make up the bulk of the economy, though new industrial parks are being developed. The tax burden is heavy, and bureaucracy is a persistent headache - the town's wastewater system has seen repeated issues with sewage overflows during heavy rain. Those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle may find Masterton appealing, but the lack of natural gas, limited air travel, and overall provincial feel make it ill-suited for cosmopolitan types.