Spokane, WA, United States

Spokane may be the second-busiest airport in Washington, but that hardly means it's a thriving metropolis. With a population of just 539,339, this inland city lacks the vibrancy and opportunities of the coastal hubs. The airport's expansion plans are a band-aid on a persistent headache - bureaucracy is a constant nuisance, and the long, cold winters are a grind. While Spokane may work for those seeking a quieter, more affordable alternative to the big cities, it's hardly the promised land for ambitious strivers.