Izhevsk, Russia

Capital City

With a population of over 616,000, Izhevsk is an industrial powerhouse in eastern Russia, known as the "Armory of Russia." But behind the city's military pedigree lies a persistent bureaucratic headache, as the legacy of Soviet-era control lingers. The long, frigid winters typical of the Ural region are also a harsh reality for residents. Despite its storied history and cultural attractions, Izhevsk is best suited for those drawn to its defense and engineering industries, or who can tolerate its formidable climate and lingering red tape.