Ludvika, Sweden

Capital City

With a population of just 427, Ludvika is a blink-and-you'll-miss-it town in the middle of Sweden. The local economy is dominated by the power engineering giant Hitachi, but beyond that, the options for employment and entertainment are decidedly limited. The bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the city spanning two different municipalities.

The upside is that Ludvika sits on the shores of the picturesque Lake Väsman, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. However, the long, dark winters and lack of cultural vibrancy mean this town is best suited for Swedes seeking a quiet, uncomplicated life, far from the bright lights of the big city.