Welcome to Burbank, California

Burbank, California—known as the Media Capital of the World—offers an exceptional blend of entertainment-industry energy, suburban comfort, and lively commercial districts. With its safe neighborhoods, strong schools, and thriving job market, Burbank is one of the most desirable places to live in the greater Los Angeles area. From tree-lined residential streets to bustling studio lots, the city provides a uniquely balanced lifestyle for families, creatives, and professionals.

What to Love

• A clean, safe, and beautifully maintained small-city atmosphere

• World-renowned studios including Warner Bros., Disney, and Nickelodeon

• Highly rated public schools and family-friendly neighborhoods

• Stunning mountain views and quick access to local hiking trails

• Walkable districts with cafés, boutiques, and restaurants

• Convenient access to the Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)

• Strong community pride and a distinct hometown feel

• A thriving arts scene with theaters, galleries, and live events

Local Lifestyle in Burbank

Life in Burbank feels both relaxed and energized. You’ll find residents enjoying morning coffee on Magnolia Boulevard, heading to work at nearby studios, or spending afternoons at local parks and community centers. The vibe is clean, friendly, and community-oriented, with a strong emphasis on arts, family life, and outdoor activities.

Burbank’s neighborhoods are quiet and well-kept, while its commercial areas are lively without feeling overwhelming. The city balances big-city amenities with a small-town sense of safety and connection, making day-to-day living comfortable and convenient.

Entertainment & Creative Lifestyle

Burbank’s dominant lifestyle is deeply rooted in entertainment and the creative arts. As home to major production studios, post-production houses, animation headquarters, and media offices, the city attracts filmmakers, animators, writers, actors, musicians, and behind-the-scenes professionals.

Residents enjoy:

• Frequent local screenings, premieres, and studio events

• Easy access to employment in film, television, and digital media

• A supportive community of creatives and industry veterans

• Unique cultural experiences including studio tours, tapings, and live shows

The city’s blend of artistry, innovation, and suburban comfort makes it one of the most sought-after communities for people working in LA’s entertainment industry.

Things to Do in Burbank

Iconic Attractions

• Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

• Walt Disney Studios (closed to the public but culturally iconic)

• Nickelodeon Animation Studio

• The Burbank Media District with theaters, production offices, and filming landmarks

Outdoor Recreation

• Wildwood Canyon Park and Stough Canyon Nature Center with scenic hiking trails

• George Izay Park for sports, playgrounds, and community events

• Verdugo Mountains offering expansive valley views

• Chandler Bike Path, a popular route for cycling, jogging, and walking

Shopping & Dining

• Downtown Burbank with restaurants, theaters, shopping, and pedestrian-friendly plazas

• Magnolia Park District known for vintage shops, boutiques, and local eateries

• Burbank Town Center Mall and nearby big-box retailers

Entertainment & Culture

• Colony Theatre for live performances

• Mystic Museum for quirky and artistic exhibits

• Friday Night Lights Magnolia Park events

• Numerous local festivals, art shows, and community gatherings throughout the year

Schools in Burbank

Burbank is served by the highly respected Burbank Unified School District (BUSD), recognized regionally for strong academics, arts programs, and community involvement.

Notable Public Schools:

• Burbank High School

• John Burroughs High School

• Luther Burbank Middle School

• Muir Middle School

• Thomas Jefferson Elementary School

• McKinley Elementary School

• R. L. Stevenson Elementary School

• Bret Harte Elementary School

Private Schools:

• Bellarmine-Jefferson High School (historic campus; operations vary by year)

• St. Robert Bellarmine School

• Lutheran School of Burbank

These schools attract families seeking excellent education within a safe and supportive environment.

Walkability & Transportation

Burbank is one of the most accessible and commuter-friendly cities in the LA region.

• Walkable districts include Downtown Burbank, Magnolia Park, and parts of the Media District

• Extensive bike paths, especially along the Chandler Bikeway

• Convenient access to the I-5, 134, and 101 freeways

• Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) for quick regional and national travel

• Metrolink stations: Downtown Burbank, Burbank Airport–South, and Burbank Airport–North

• Local BurbankBus routes connecting neighborhoods and job centers

Commutes to Hollywood, Studio City, Glendale, and Pasadena are especially efficient compared to most LA-area cities.

History & Culture

Burbank’s story begins in the late 1800s as a ranching and farming community before rapidly evolving into a major center of aviation and entertainment. The opening of Lockheed Aircraft Company in the early- to mid-20th century transformed the city into an aerospace powerhouse.

By the 1930s and 1940s, the entertainment industry took hold, and Burbank became synonymous with film and television production. Today it remains a global media hub, maintaining deep cultural ties to the arts while preserving its suburban charm.

Culturally, Burbank embraces:

• A strong tradition of performing arts

• Family-focused festivals and parades

• Vintage and creative shopping districts

• A long-standing connection to aviation and aerospace history

This rich blend of heritage and modern media culture gives the city a unique identity.

Homes in Burbank

Burbank offers a wide variety of homes appealing to different lifestyles and budgets.

Common home types include:

• Charming mid-century single-family homes

• Spanish-style properties with classic LA character

• Contemporary remodels with open layouts

• Luxury homes in the Hillside District and Burbank Hills

• Condos and townhomes near Downtown and the Media District

Neighborhoods are well-maintained, with manicured lawns, mature trees, and a strong sense of pride among homeowners. Many homes feature mountain views, private yards, and updated interiors while retaining original architectural charm.

Housing Market Trends

The Burbank market remains competitive and consistently strong.

Key characteristics include:

• High demand from entertainment professionals and families

• Limited inventory compared to surrounding cities

• Steady appreciation due to Burbank’s schools, safety, and employment opportunities

• Strong activity in both entry-level homes and luxury hillside properties

• Popularity of renovated mid-century homes in family-friendly neighborhoods

Because Burbank has its own school district, utilities, and police services—not run by LA City—homes often hold value exceptionally well.

Popular Neighborhoods in Burbank

• Magnolia Park — Trendy, walkable, and full of boutiques, cafés, and vintage shops

• Burbank Hills — Scenic hillside homes with luxury properties and panoramic views

• Rancho District — Equestrian-friendly area near Griffith Park with charming ranch homes

• Media District — Close to studios, ideal for entertainment professionals

• Downtown Burbank — Urban-style living with condos, retail, and entertainment

• Chandler Park — Residential streets with quick access to the Chandler Bikeway

• McNeil Neighborhood — Quiet, family-friendly pocket with well-kept mid-century homes

Each micro-neighborhood offers unique appeal, from historic charm to modern convenience.

Buying or Selling in Burbank

The Burbank real estate market is fast-moving and highly sought after. Buyers are drawn to the city’s excellent schools, safety, and proximity to major studios, while sellers benefit from strong demand and consistently rising property values.

Navigating the market requires understanding neighborhood nuances, local pricing trends, and the unique appeal of homes here—from Magnolia Park character properties to hillside estates with commanding views. Whether entering the market or preparing to sell, success in Burbank comes from timing, strategy, and local expertise.