Get to know Burbank, CA

Burbank is known as the “Media Capital of the World.”  The city was named after New Hampshire dentist Dr. David Burbank who built a ranch in the area in 1867.  He became one of the most successful sheep raiser in southern California.  The area was settled in the 1870’s and 1880’s as the railroad came to the area.  A speculative boom occurred as the railroad ran through the town, but the frenzy ended in collapse in 1889.  Many were left penniless and moved out of the area.   Manufacturing and aviation helped the town when the Moreland Motor Truck Company opened a factory in 1887, followed by the Lockheed Aircraft Company in 1928.  The city was incorporated in 1911.  Film came to Burbank when First National Pictures, which was later taken over by Warner Brothers, bought land in the city in 1926.  Columbia Pictures, the Walt Disney Company, and NBC also bought shooting space in Burbank in the 20th century.  The city has a rich cinematic history, with films such as Casablanca, Mary Poppins, and Back to the Future all being shot in Burbank.  Today the entertainment industry drives the economy, having taken over for the defense industry of the early 20th century.  The Walt Disney Company and Warner Bros. are the top employers.  Notable attractions in Burbank include the many studios located in the city and the Providencia Ranch.  Famous residents have included Tim Burton, Mark Harmon, Ron Howard, and Blake Lively among others.

Quick Facts

Population: 104,752

Median Household Income: $66,076

Median Property Value: $586,200