Best bounce-back burb: Brea

Other bounce-backs we love

• Bellevue, WA, was your basic burb until it created an award-winning 2,700-acre park system. What else? At least a dozen high-tech giants, stellar schools, proximity to Seattle, great mountain views. www.bellevuechamber.org

• South Pasadena, CA, gained new life thanks to a light-rail line and a trendy commercial district. www.ci.south-pasadena.ca.us

• Windsor, CA, has created a town green with storefronts based on historic photos and topped with condos - and avoided treacly nostalgia. www.townofwindsor.com