Algarve, Portugal

At 451,005 residents, the Algarve boasts a population that triples in the summer, and for good reason - it's a sunny tourist haven. However, the region's heavy reliance on the seasonal hospitality industry means many locals face long stretches of unemployment during the off-season. And while the Algarve offers a high quality of life, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache. Still, with its idyllic climate, beautiful beaches, and low cost of living, the Algarve remains an attractive destination for retirees and remote workers seeking an affordable slice of southern European paradise.