Burbank, California

The best thing about Burbank is the variety of social, cultural and outdoor options you get in a relatively small city package. Many describe it as a small town or a suburb with all the benefits of a big city but without the drawbacks. While the cost of living is high, the neighbors and community are generally quite friendly (more like a small town), with locals frequently growing up there and never leaving. There are also tons of green spaces and parks, along with many spots for riding and raising horses, so you can get away from it all without having to go too far.

Additionally, Burbank still has big city amenities, with excellent restaurants, bars, cafes, theaters and museums. Also, as an incorporated city, the local government is highly involved in public life and city beautification efforts. And of course, its location is central to much of the rest of Los Angeles County, meaning Hollywood, West Los Angeles, and the South Bay are only a short drive away.

The high amount of traffic Los Angeles is known for can at times also plague Burbank. When you combine an active local population, major movie studio visitors, plenty of tourists, and a booming local airport, the area gets crowded. Burbank can take a toll on those who favor a much more secluded, quieter locale.

Burbank’s suburban vibe makes it perfect for families and retirees. Most of the city closes around 9PM, and the general environment is described as safe and clean. While it may not be ideal for those who prefer the nightlife, anyone interested in a quiet and scenic place to live, relative to Los Angeles proper, will find a happy home in Burbank. The studios, parks, farmers markets, and live shows provide plenty of entertainment for the whole family. Additionally, Burbank is called the Media Capital of the World for a very good reason: if you work in the film industry, you’ll find no shortage of work opportunities in Burbank. There are also career prospects in medicine and audio-visual technology, making it suitable for a wide variety of young urban professionals.