Edison, NJ, United States

It's a crowded, diverse suburb with nearly 100,000 residents, many of them immigrants drawn by jobs and economic opportunities. The tax burden is heavy, but residents enjoy a relatively safe community with good schools. However, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache, as evidenced by the township's history of officer misconduct. Edison may appeal to those seeking an affordable, family-friendly option within commuting distance of New York City, but it's not for the faint of heart.