Anyang, South Korea

With a population of just 233,172, Anyang is a compact commuter suburb that struggles to stand out from Seoul's shadow. While the city boasts modern amenities like subway access and sports teams, the air pollution is notoriously bad, ranking among the worst in the world's largest economies. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as evidenced by the failed plan for a 100-story city hall. Ultimately, Anyang is best suited for pragmatic South Koreans seeking an affordable, family-friendly alternative to the chaos of the capital.