Del Rio, TX, United States

Capital City

With a population of just 34,673, Del Rio is a modest border town that offers a glimpse into the gritty realities of life on the U.S.-Mexico frontier. The area is shaped by its proximity to Laughlin Air Force Base, the region's largest employer, and the private Val Verde Correctional Facility, which houses offenders and immigration detainees. While the town boasts a rich cultural heritage, including an over 130-year-old winery, the relentless desert heat and occasional severe thunderstorms are a persistent headache. Overall, Del Rio's remote location and sizable immigrant population make it a challenging prospect for all but the most resilient residents.