Gonzales, LA, United States

With a population of just 12,231, Gonzales bills itself as the "Jambalaya Capital of the World," but the reality is a sleepy, small-town vibe that may not appeal to all. The city's subtropical climate means residents face the persistent threat of severe weather like hurricanes, with Hurricane Gustav leaving behind 100 mph winds in 2008. And while the city has diversified in recent decades, bureaucratic red tape remains a headache, with the local legislature having to step in to force the railroad to use the town's post office name. For those seeking an affordable, slower-paced lifestyle in Louisiana, Gonzales could be a good fit - but it's no bustling metropolis.