Virginia Beach, VA, United States

With a population of 459,470, Virginia Beach is a sprawling resort town that may appeal to some, but its bureaucratic headaches and vulnerability to flooding cannot be ignored. Tourism drives much of the economy, but the city is also home to major defense contractors and military bases that employ over 171,000 people - though only 54% actually live within the city limits. While the climate is mild and the parks system is impressive, Virginia Beach has grappled with the challenges of rapid growth, including a land crunch that has led to floodplain development and lawsuits over rejected projects. Those drawn to the coastal charms and relative safety of this city may find the paperwork and climate risks to be persistent annoyances.