Monett, MO, United States

With a population of just 9,576, Monett is a small Ozark town that's a far cry from the glitz and glamour of the coasts. The median household income is a mere $39,435, and over 17% of residents live below the poverty line. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as evidenced by the town's history as a former "sundown town" that banned African Americans after dark. On the plus side, Monett boasts a thriving railroad and manufacturing economy, and has seen rapid growth over the last two decades. For those seeking an affordable, small-town lifestyle in the heart of the Ozarks, Monett may be worth a look. But be prepared to navigate the town's complex racial history and economic challenges.