Chang-hua, Taiwan

Housing costs in Chang-hua are far from cheap, with the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment clocking in around $600. The city does boast two prestigious universities, National Tsing Hua University and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, which collectively enroll over 18,000 students. However, bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with numerous government agencies that can make simple tasks a slog. The climate is mild, with average temperatures ranging from the low 60s Fahrenheit in winter to the high 80s in summer. Overall, Chang-hua is best suited for those seeking an academic hub with a manageable climate, but be prepared to navigate a fair amount of red tape.