Eastsound, WA, United States

This unincorporated community on Orcas Island is the largest population center in the San Juan Islands, home to just over 3,000 people. While it boasts a thriving arts scene, quaint village charm, and scenic location, the town's isolation and limited transportation options are persistent headaches. With a tiny airport and ferry service located miles away, getting on and off the island can be a logistical nightmare. And the brutal Haida raids that decimated the native Lummi population in the 19th century serve as a stark reminder of the island's turbulent history. Overall, Eastsound may appeal to those seeking an artsy, off-the-grid lifestyle, but the trade-offs of living in such a remote area are considerable.