Novi, MI, United States

The cost of living in Novi, MI is sky-high, with the median house price hovering around $260,000 as of 2008. At the same time, the city's rapid growth has led to bureaucratic headaches, as Novi partners with multiple agencies to manage development and streamline approvals. While the population has surged 20% over the past decade to 66,243, the area's diverse demographics - including a sizable Japanese and Indian population - make for a cultural mosaic. Overall, Novi seems best suited for young professionals and families looking to tap into the region's economic opportunities, despite the persistent challenges of growth.