Norfolk, VA, United States

Norfolk, Virginia is home to the Joint Force Command - Norfolk, a key NATO military hub. While the city's role as a strategic Atlantic naval center is undeniable, the bureaucratic slog of dealing with the command's complex multinational structure is a persistent headache for locals. With 6 European countries now under its purview, the command's footprint continues to grow, bringing both economic benefits and logistical challenges to the region. Overall, Norfolk is best suited for those with a high tolerance for military presence and an appreciation for its outsized global influence, despite the day-to-day frustrations.