Ohrid, North Macedonia

Capital City

With a population of just 38,818, Ohrid may seem quaint, but the bureaucratic headaches and heavy tax burden are anything but small-town. As a World Heritage site, the city draws hordes of tourists who crowd the picturesque churches and monuments, driving up costs for locals. And while the climate is pleasant, with average summer highs of 27°C, the winters can be bitterly cold, with temperatures plunging below -17°C. For those seeking an authentic Balkan experience, Ohrid offers a rich history and cultural heritage, but the persistent challenges of living in this historic city may prove too much for the average expat.