Hermosa Beach, CA, United States

With a population of just 19,728, Hermosa Beach is a tiny oceanfront enclave that punches above its weight. The median household income tops $150,000, but good luck finding affordable housing - over half the homes are occupied by renters. While the perpetual sunshine and mild temperatures are a draw, the coastal fog can be a persistent headache. And with only 1.4 square miles of land, bureaucracy is a fact of life, from the city's 32.5 acres of beach to the 1,570 parking meters. Hermosa Beach is best suited for well-heeled urbanites seeking a laidback beachside lifestyle, if they can stomach the crowds and red tape.