Oviedo, FL, United States

The population of 40,059 may seem quaint, but Oviedo's rapid growth has come at a cost. While the historic downtown charms of this former citrus outpost remain, the city has shed much of its small-town character as it has sprawled to accommodate an influx of new residents. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with buildings constantly demolished to widen the main thoroughfare. And the subtropical climate brings its own challenges, from hurricanes that can leave half the city without power for a week to flash floods that swamp entire neighborhoods.

For those drawn to the promise of Florida's booming economy, Oviedo may provide an affordable alternative to the high-octane Orlando metro area. But the loss of its rural charm, coupled with the ever-present risks of severe weather, make this city a better fit for those seeking a practical, rather than idyllic, Sunshine State experience.