Welcome to Burbank, California, where Hollywood creativity meets Southern California living in the heart of the San Fernando Valley. As the Media Capital of the World just seven miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles, Burbank is a vibrant community that blends entertainment industry heritage with modern urban convenience, a dynamic destination beneath the Verdugo Mountains. If you're a busy professional juggling work demands, need top auto body repair after that fender bender on the 5, or you're looking for quality healthcare close to home, this city delivers the exceptional services it's known for.
Burbank's location and diverse amenities hit different for people who want urban energy and natural beauty. Griffith Park and the Hollywood Hills are right there for hiking, outdoor recreation, or catching stunning city views. The year-round sunshine and chill climate remind you why Southern California living rocks. Verdugo Park and the Chandler Bikeway have swimming pools, nature trails, scenic bike paths, and summer concerts that actually slap.
Life in Burbank moves fast and feels welcoming, with genuine community vibes and entertainment history baked into everything. The downtown shopping district and Magnolia Park give you authentic local businesses, vintage shops, and dining spots where people actually hang out. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour and the Green Lantern statue show off what makes this place different, while local events bring out the city's cultural mix.
Burbank is where Hollywood magic meets real community warmth, an exceptional place to live, work, and thrive.
Burbank's Entertainment Capital Character
Burbank, California, masterfully combines its rich entertainment roots with a welcoming, community-focused lifestyle, offering an engaging experience for residents and visitors throughout the region. The city's downtown core features an impressive array of boutiques, restaurants, and shopping centers that reflect its commitment to preserving local character while supporting thriving businesses.
Cultural attractions flourish throughout Burbank, with premier destinations like the Warner Bros. Studio Tour and the Starlight Bowl. These cultural treasures invite exploration of the city's heritage through engaging experiences, live performances, and immersive entertainment. Annual celebrations such as the Downtown Cultural Market and summer concert series bring the community together in appreciation of its diverse interests and shared passion for creativity.
Burbank is recognized for its commitment to balancing urban development with quality of life. Parks such as Stough Canyon Nature Center and Verdugo Park provide beautiful backdrops for picnics, hiking, and outdoor appreciation. The city's emphasis on maintaining accessible green spaces, supporting local businesses, and celebrating its entertainment heritage reflects its dedication to authentic community living.
Burbank's neighborhoods are welcoming and inviting, each offering its own unique personality and charm. From the vintage shops of Magnolia Park to the vibrant downtown district, Burbank provides a range of lifestyle options suited to any preference. The city's excellent location, walkable neighborhoods, and abundant cultural and recreational opportunities make it an outstanding place to establish roots.
Whether you're attracted by its entertainment history, scenic natural beauty, or the genuine warmth of its atmosphere, Burbank delivers an exceptional quality of life that's as impressive as its stunning mountain backdrop.
Neighborhoods and Zip Codes of Burbank, CA
Burbank, California, is a city of distinctive neighborhoods, each offering its own character, community atmosphere, and unique appeal. Here's a guide to some of Burbank's key neighborhoods, along with their corresponding zip codes:
Downtown Burbank (91502):
Downtown Burbank stands as the heart of the community, known for its shopping centers, restaurants, and vibrant business scene. This area features the Burbank Town Center, local eateries, and entertainment venues. It's a hub for those who appreciate walkability, urban energy, and proximity to the Metrolink station. The downtown district hosts numerous community events and is home to landmarks like the AMC Walkway and cultural markets.
Magnolia Park (91506):
Magnolia Park is an established neighborhood situated in central Burbank. This area offers a mix of vintage homes, tree-lined streets, and the famous Magnolia Boulevard shopping district. Known for its small-town atmosphere and antique shops, Magnolia Park attracts residents seeking a quiet residential setting with boutique shopping and classic character.
Rancho Equestrian District (91506):
The Rancho is a unique residential neighborhood offering equestrian zoning that allows residents to keep horses on their property. This area features larger lots, stables, and direct access to riding trails in Griffith Park. The neighborhood's tree-lined Riverside Drive and proximity to Warner Bros. and Disney Studios make it highly desirable for those seeking a distinctive lifestyle.
Media District (91505):
The Media District encompasses the area surrounding the major entertainment studios including Warner Bros., Disney, and Nickelodeon. This neighborhood offers a mix of residential and commercial properties with convenient access to major employers. The area's central location makes it appealing to industry professionals and families who value accessibility and studio proximity.
North Burbank (91504):
North Burbank encompasses residential areas along the city's northern boundaries near the Verdugo Mountains. This area features quiet streets, parks, and access to hiking trails. The neighborhood offers peaceful living with stunning mountain views while remaining close to downtown amenities and major freeways.
West Burbank (91505, 91506):
West Burbank includes neighborhoods west of the Golden State Freeway with a mix of housing options and commercial areas. This area provides convenient access to Universal Studios, the Hollywood Hills, and major transportation routes. Residents appreciate the area's central location between Burbank's downtown core and the entertainment hubs of Hollywood and Universal City.
East Burbank (91501):
East Burbank features residential neighborhoods along the city's eastern edge near Glendale. This area offers access to shopping centers, schools, and the Burbank Airport. The community's location provides easy access to both Pasadena and downtown Los Angeles via nearby freeways.
With its distinct neighborhoods offering everything from equestrian living to downtown energy, Burbank provides diverse living options to accommodate any lifestyle. Whether you're drawn to the vintage character of Magnolia Park, the entertainment industry proximity of the Media District, or the peaceful streets of North Burbank, this Southern California city has a neighborhood ready to welcome you.
Income and Education in Burbank, CA
Burbank, California, serves as an economic center for the entertainment industry with a diversified economy and strong commitment to educational achievement. The city's varied industries, including entertainment production, aerospace, media, and healthcare, create a stable economic environment. The median household income is approximately $95,816, contributing to a comfortable standard of living, making Burbank an appealing destination for professionals, families, and creatives seeking opportunity and community.
Education plays a central role in Burbank's continued growth, with residents valuing academic achievement and professional development. About 20% of the population completed high school, while 21.6% pursued college studies. Another 10.5% earned an associate degree and 29.8% hold a bachelor's degree. An impressive 13.8% went further, earning master's or doctoral degrees. The city is served by Burbank Unified School District, which offers comprehensive academic programs designed to foster student success and prepare graduates for higher education and careers.
Private and independent schools throughout Burbank provide specialized educational approaches to meet diverse learning needs. The city also benefits from proximity to numerous colleges and universities in the greater Los Angeles area. The New York Film Academy in Burbank contributes to the region's reputation for entertainment education and provides opportunities for specialized study.
These institutions offer comprehensive academic and professional training programs, ensuring a skilled workforce that drives Burbank's continued economic stability and growth. With its focus on quality education and steady economic opportunities, Burbank remains a city where individuals and families can achieve their goals and build successful futures.
Schools in Burbank, CA
Public Schools:
Burbank, California, is served by Burbank Unified School District, which provides quality education to students throughout the city. The district offers numerous programs designed to meet diverse educational needs. Notable public schools in the Burbank area include:
Burbank High School:
Burbank High School serves grades 9-12 and is known for its comprehensive curriculum, competitive athletics, and strong arts programs. The school offers numerous Advanced Placement courses and career technical education programs. Its well-rounded approach to education prepares students for college and career success while maintaining strong community support and school spirit.
John Burroughs High School:
Serving students in grades 9-12, John Burroughs High School provides a rigorous academic environment with a focus on achievement and personal growth. The school offers diverse extracurricular activities, athletics, and award-winning show choirs. Students benefit from strong academic programs that prepare them successfully for college while developing leadership skills and creativity.
Luther Burbank Middle School:
Luther Burbank Middle School serves students in grades 6-8 with a focus on academic excellence and character development. The school emphasizes literacy, mathematics, and social-emotional learning in a supportive environment. Teachers work closely with families to support each child's educational path and build a strong foundation for high school success.
Brighton Hall School:
Brighton Hall School is a college-preparatory school serving students with learning differences. Known for its individualized approach, small class sizes, and commitment to helping students reach their potential, Brighton Hall emphasizes academic growth, confidence building, and preparing students for future success.
St. Francis Xavier School:
St. Francis Xavier is a prekindergarten through eighth-grade school that provides quality Catholic education in a nurturing environment. The school emphasizes academic excellence, faith formation, and character development while maintaining small class sizes that allow for personalized attention and strong community bonds.
New York Film Academy - Burbank:
The New York Film Academy's Burbank campus offers programs in filmmaking, acting, photography, and other entertainment arts. Located in the heart of the entertainment industry, the academy provides hands-on training and industry connections. Students benefit from being situated near major studios and production facilities.
Nearby Universities:
Burbank's location provides easy access to numerous higher education institutions including University of Southern California (USC), University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), California State University Northridge (CSUN), and Occidental College. These institutions offer comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines.
Public Transportation and Major Highways in Burbank, CA
Burbank, California, features a transportation network that enables residents and visitors to navigate the greater Los Angeles region efficiently. From public transit connections to comprehensive highway access, Burbank ensures connectivity throughout the metropolitan area.
BurbankBus:
BurbankBus operates multiple routes throughout the city, including connections to Downtown Burbank, Hollywood Burbank Airport, and the North Hollywood Metro Station. The system provides affordable transportation options for commuters and residents. Notable routes include the Pink Route connecting Downtown Burbank to Universal City and the Orange Route serving the airport.
Metro Bus:
LA Metro operates several bus lines serving Burbank, including routes 154, 165, 222, and 294. These routes provide connections to the broader Los Angeles transit system, including links to Metro Rail stations in North Hollywood and beyond.
Metrolink:
Burbank is served by two Metrolink stations: the Downtown Burbank Station and the Burbank Airport stations (North and South). The Downtown Burbank Station provides service on the Antelope Valley Line and Ventura County Line, offering direct connections to Los Angeles Union Station in approximately 20 minutes. The station features over 450 free parking spaces for commuters.
Amtrak:
The Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, which runs between Santa Barbara and San Diego, provides regular weekday and weekend service at the Burbank Airport-South Station. This service connects Burbank residents to coastal communities and major cities throughout Southern California.
Interstate 5 (Golden State Freeway):
I-5 runs north-south through Burbank, serving as a major commuter route connecting the city to downtown Los Angeles, Glendale, and communities to the north in the San Fernando Valley. This highway provides access to many Burbank neighborhoods and the Hollywood Burbank Airport while serving as a vital transportation corridor for the region.
State Route 134 (Ventura Freeway):
SR-134 runs east-west along Burbank's southern edge, providing connections from the Hollywood area through Burbank, Glendale, and Eagle Rock to Pasadena. This freeway intersects with I-5 at the Gene Autry Memorial Interchange and offers efficient access to both the San Fernando Valley and the San Gabriel Valley.
State Route 170 (Hollywood Freeway):
SR-170 provides north-south connectivity through the San Fernando Valley, with connections to Burbank via I-5. This route links Burbank residents to North Hollywood, Sherman Oaks, and other Valley communities while connecting to the Metro B Line subway system.
Hollywood Burbank Airport (Bob Hope Airport):
While not a highway, Hollywood Burbank Airport serves as a critical transportation hub for the city. Located on Hollywood Way, the airport provides nonstop service to nearly 20 destinations across the United States. The airport features convenient access via BurbankBus, Metro, Metrolink, and Amtrak services.
Things To Do in Burbank, CA
From world-class studio tours to scenic mountain parks, Burbank offers diverse experiences for visitors seeking entertainment, nature, and culture. Here are five exceptional activities within a 30-45 minute drive from downtown Burbank.