Brainerd, MN, United States

Capital City

With a population of just 14,395, Brainerd may seem like a sleepy Midwestern town, but its history is anything but dull. The city's founding was marked by bloody clashes between settlers and Native Americans, and even in modern times, it has dealt with its fair share of environmental headaches - a Superfund site on the outskirts attests to the toxic legacy of its industrial past.

Despite these challenges, Brainerd has managed to carve out a niche as a popular summer destination, thanks to its proximity to over 460 lakes. However, the harsh continental climate, with sweltering summers and bitterly cold winters, is not for the faint of heart. And with a median household income of just $26,901, the city's economic prospects are hardly glistening.

Brainerd may hold appeal for those seeking a quiet, lakeside retreat, but its gritty industrial history and bitter weather make it a tough sell for the average American looking to relocate.