Kennesaw, GA, United States

At just over 33,000 people, Kennesaw is a modest suburban outpost northwest of Atlanta. While its location provides easy access to the big city, the reality is a slow-paced, largely homogeneous community with a heavy dose of Southern conservatism. The 2020 census shows the population grew nearly 11% over the previous decade, but crime rates remain stubbornly above national averages despite the city's claims to the contrary. And for a town that prides itself on its Civil War history, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache, with separate 911 call centers and no dedicated fire department. Kennesaw may appeal to those seeking a quiet, affordable life near the bright lights of Atlanta, but it's not the right fit for those seeking diversity or a streamlined local government.