Map of Brea, United States

Brea, located in the heart of Orange County, California, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and thriving community. With a population that embraces diversity, Brea offers a unique blend of suburban charm and urban convenience. The city is renowned for its public art program, which features over 150 artworks throughout the community, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

Brea's economy is robust, with a strong retail sector anchored by the Brea Mall, which attracts visitors from across the region. The city is also home to a variety of industries, including healthcare, education, and technology, making it a dynamic place for business and innovation. As Brea continues to grow, it maintains a commitment to sustainability and quality of life, ensuring a bright future for its residents.

Climate
95.14
About this index
Property
2.96
About this index

History and Culture

Brea's history dates back to the early 20th century when it was founded as an oil town. The discovery of oil in the area led to rapid development and the establishment of a thriving community. Over the years, Brea transitioned from an oil-based economy to a more diversified one, with significant growth in retail and residential sectors.

Culturally, Brea is a hub of artistic expression and community engagement. The city is known for its extensive public art program, which began in 1975 and has since become a model for other cities. Brea's cultural scene is further enriched by the Curtis Theatre, which hosts a variety of performances, and the Brea Art Gallery, which showcases local and international artists.

Brea celebrates its cultural diversity through numerous festivals and events, such as the Brea Fest, which highlights local food, music, and art. The city's commitment to cultural enrichment is evident in its support for arts education and community programs that foster creativity and inclusivity.

Things to do in Brea

Visitors to Brea can enjoy a wide range of activities and attractions. The Brea Mall is a premier shopping destination, offering a variety of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues. For those interested in outdoor activities, the Carbon Canyon Regional Park provides hiking trails, picnic areas, and the unique Redwood Grove, a serene spot featuring towering redwood trees.

Brea's vibrant arts scene is a must-see, with the Brea Art Gallery and Curtis Theatre offering exhibitions and performances year-round. The city also hosts several annual events, such as the Brea Jazz Festival and the Brea Fest, which celebrate local culture and community spirit.

Food enthusiasts will find a diverse culinary scene in Brea, with a range of restaurants offering everything from casual dining to gourmet experiences. The city's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its farmers' markets, where visitors can purchase fresh, locally-sourced produce.

Worldwide
United States

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for the United States reflect how livable a city in United States is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.

Best to WorstUpdated: Dec, 2024
Full Quality of Life Rankings

Weather in Brea

Brea, CA, United States experiences a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 14 inches (356 mm), with February being the wettest month, averaging around 3 inches (76 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 70°F (21°C) in March to 78°F (26°C) in May. Rainfall decreases as the season progresses, with March receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 2.5 inches (64 mm).
  • Summer (June to August) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 70°F (21°C) in March to 78°F (26°C) in May. Rainfall decreases as the season progresses, with March receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 2.5 inches (64 mm).
  • Autumn (September to November) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 70°F (21°C) in March to 78°F (26°C) in May. Rainfall decreases as the season progresses, with March receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 2.5 inches (64 mm).
  • Winter (December to February) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 70°F (21°C) in March to 78°F (26°C) in May. Rainfall decreases as the season progresses, with March receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 2.5 inches (64 mm).
Notable Weather Events
  • Occasional heatwaves during the summer months, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 100°F (38°C).
  • Santa Ana winds, which can occur in the fall and winter, bringing dry and warm conditions.
  • Rare but possible heavy rainstorms during the winter months, leading to localized flooding.
Overall, Brea's climate offers hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, with most of the annual rainfall occurring in the winter and early spring months.

Brea's Political Climate

Conservative with growing progressive influences

Brea, located in the state of California, is a city known for its vibrant political climate and active civic engagement. As part of Orange County, Brea has a governance structure that reflects both local and regional influences. The city is governed by a city council and a mayor, who work together to address the needs of the community. Historically, Brea has leaned towards conservative political affiliations, but recent years have seen a shift towards more progressive policies, particularly in areas such as environmental sustainability and social justice.

The political history of Brea is marked by its evolution from a small oil town to a bustling suburban community. This transformation has brought about changes in its political landscape, with current leadership focusing on balancing growth with sustainability. Key political issues in Brea today include housing development, traffic management, and maintaining public safety. The city has been proactive in implementing green initiatives, such as expanding public parks and promoting renewable energy use.

Brea's political climate significantly influences its economic and social decisions. The city's leadership has prioritized economic development while ensuring that growth does not compromise the quality of life for its residents. Recent political trends in Brea include a growing emphasis on community engagement and transparency in governance. Local movements advocating for more inclusive policies have gained momentum, reflecting a broader trend towards progressive change in the region.

Political Quick Facts
Voter Turnout - 68%
City Governance - Mayor-Council system
Composition - 3 Republicans, 2 Democrats
Recent Political Changes - Increased focus on sustainability and social justice initiatives
Engagement - High, with active community participation in local governance
Political Scorecard - B+ for governance and transparency
Legislative Priorities - Sustainability and environmental protection, Affordable housing development, Public safety enhancements
Public Opinion - Moderate with a trend towards progressive values
Notable Political Figures
  • Christine Marick - Former Mayor known for her focus on economic development and sustainability.
  • Marty Simonoff - Long-serving council member with a focus on public safety and fiscal responsibility.
  • Glenn Parker - Council member advocating for increased transparency and community engagement.
Brea

Quick Facts

Population
43,755
Median Age
38.5 yrs
Median Household Income
$89,123
Median Home Price
$750,000
Avg Rent Prices
$2,300
Unemployment Rate
4.1%
Avg commute time
28.5 mins
Avg High Temps
77° F
Avg Low Temps
52° F
Annual Rainfall
14 inches
Brea

"Key Takeaways"

Brea's economy is thriving, with significant contributions from retail, healthcare, and technology sectors.

The city is renowned for its public art program, featuring over 150 artworks that enhance its cultural landscape.

Brea offers a diverse range of activities, from shopping at the Brea Mall to exploring the natural beauty of Carbon Canyon Regional Park.