The city pairs suburban neighborhoods with the Brea Mall, a walkable downtown, and a renowned public art program. Its hills offer outdoor recreation while proximity to the 57 freeway connects residents to jobs across the LA‑OC corridor.

Brea grew from turn‑of‑the‑century oil fields (its name comes from the Spanish word for tar) and citrus groves. It incorporated in 1917 and steadily evolved into a residential and commercial center with a strong civic arts presence.