São Francisco do Sul, Brazil

São Caetano do Sul packs a lot into its compact 15 square kilometers. This densely populated city is part of São Paulo's sprawling metro area, blending seamlessly with neighboring Santo André and São Bernardo do Campo. Despite its small size, it boasts Brazil's highest per capita income, which shows in the well-maintained streets and infrastructure.

Living here means dealing with São Paulo's notorious traffic without the convenience of major highways running through town. The intense urbanization leaves little breathing room, but you're just a short drive from São Paulo's endless opportunities. The high income levels create a noticeable gap between São Caetano do Sul and Brazil's average cost of living.

This city works best for expats who want São Paulo's amenities without the chaos, but don't expect a quiet escape. It's urban living at its most concentrated.