Tucson, AZ, United States

Capital City

With a population of 542,629, Tucson is the second-largest city in Arizona, but its charm comes with some serious caveats. The desert climate can be brutal, with average summer highs over 100°F and a paltry 10.61 inches of annual rainfall. And while the city touts itself as "bicycle-friendly," recent data shows it's actually the 5th most dangerous place in the U.S. for cyclists. Persistent bureaucratic headaches, from the sprawling city layout to the unwieldy local government, can also make daily life a slog. Tucson may appeal to those seeking an affordable, laidback Southwestern vibe, but the harsh environment and practical challenges mean it's not for the faint of heart.