Manassas, VA, United States

Capital City

Manassas has a population of 42,772, but don't let the small-town vibe fool you - this Northern Virginia city comes with a heavy tax burden and a persistent bureaucracy headache. The climate is characteristically hot and humid, perfect for summer but a slog in the winter. Commuters make up the bulk of the workforce, with 89% travelling in from surrounding areas. For those who can stomach the traffic and red tape, Manassas offers a more affordable alternative to the DC metro area, but it's hardly the idyllic oasis some may envision.