League City, TX, United States

With a population of just 83,560, League City is a far cry from the booming metropolis of nearby Houston. While the city boasts waterside resorts and a bustling suburban feel, the relentless Texas heat and occasional flooding from Galveston Bay are constant headaches. The city's government has also been mired in controversy, with a police chief ousted in 2011 over allegations of illegal ticket quotas. For those seeking a quieter, more affordable alternative to Houston, League City may fit the bill - but the trade-offs in climate and bureaucracy are not to be taken lightly.