Wenatchee, WA, United States

Capital City

This small city in central Washington may seem idyllic, but its remote location and heavy bureaucracy are persistent headaches. The population is just 35,508, and nearly all residents (99.7%) live in urban areas. The tax burden is heavy, with around a third of households being non-families. And the city has faced historical problems with hate groups like the KKK. However, Wenatchee boasts a lively arts scene, abundant outdoor recreation, and a thriving tree fruit industry that has made it the "Apple Capital of the World." If you can tolerate the bureaucratic friction and remote climate, Wenatchee may be a suitable choice for those seeking a quieter pace of life.