Gilroy, CA, United States

The theme park may be whimsical, but living in Gilroy, CA is a decidedly straightforward affair. The city has a population of just 59,520, a manageable size but hardly cosmopolitan. And while the Circus Trees are undoubtedly unique, the bureaucracy surrounding the city-owned Gilroy Gardens theme park seems to be a persistent headache, with the park's management changing hands multiple times.

On the upside, the park's location in the Californian heartland provides easy access to natural attractions like the Pinnacles National Park. But for those seeking an exciting urban lifestyle, Gilroy is unlikely to satisfy - it's a practical, unassuming town best suited for families looking for a quieter pace of life.