Chesapeake, VA, United States

A population of 249,422 may seem sizeable, but Chesapeake's vast 351 square miles pose challenges in maintaining infrastructure. While the city boasts protected forests and wetlands, city leaders face a persistent headache in balancing development with preservation. Chesapeake's rapid growth since the 1990s has strained municipal services, from saltwater intrusion in the water supply to congested roads. Those seeking a relaxed suburban lifestyle should look elsewhere, as Chesapeake grapples with the realities of its rapid expansion.