Fairfax, VA, United States

Capital City

With a population of just 24,146, Fairfax may seem like a sleepy Virginia suburb, but the reality is anything but. The city has undergone extensive redevelopment in recent years, adding over 45,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space alongside new offices and condos. However, Fairfax's status as the county seat comes with persistent bureaucratic headaches - the city government must seek approval from the Virginia General Assembly to make even minor changes.

The climate is described as "humid subtropical," meaning long, hot summers and mild winters, which may appeal to some but not all. Fairfax also boasts a strong public school system and a high median salary, factors that contributed to its ranking as the #3 "Best Place to Live Well" by Forbes in 2009. Overall, this city seems tailored for young professionals and families seeking an urban-suburban blend, though the red tape and climate may deter some.