Paihia, New Zealand

Living in Paihia means dealing with a population of just 1,660 people packed into a tiny 2.24 square kilometer area. The median age is a whopping 51 years old, and over a quarter of residents were born overseas, so don't expect a youthful, dynamic vibe. The rainfall and subtropical climate may be pleasant, but navigating the Byzantine bureaucracy to get anything done can be a persistent headache. This sleepy coastal town is best suited for retirees seeking a quiet, slow-paced lifestyle - anyone else may find it suffocatingly small.