Baton Rouge, LA, United States

Capital City

The population of 219,500 may seem modest, but living in Baton Rouge comes with its fair share of headaches. The heavy tax burden and persistent bureaucracy are enough to test the patience of even the most dedicated resident. And with the city's proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, it's no stranger to the threat of devastating hurricanes. While Baton Rouge boasts a culturally diverse and lively arts scene, those seeking an easy, carefree lifestyle may find the challenges outweigh the upsides.