Brea is at the northern end of Orange County, and began life as a center of crude oil production. Crude oil gave way to citrus crops, and finally to suburban homes. Brea is home to the Brea Mall and Brea Downtown, both retail shopping magnets. Brea is also known for its extensive public art program which began in 1975 and continues today with over 140 artworks in the collection placed and located throughout the city.

Brea is also noted for its fine schools. Both Brea Olinda Elementary and Brea Olinda High School were awarded the Blue Ribbon Award in 2007 and are rated in the top 3% in public/private schools. The Brea Police and Fire Departments are highly regarded, and the city is clean and well-maintained.

Sunset magazine has named Brea as one of the 5 best places to live in the western United States.