Is Burbank, California Good for Airbnb Investment?

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Burbank, California market research

Burbank, California Airbnb Investment Overview

$2,800–$4,500Typical monthly host earnings
8–12%Typical annual ROI
65–70%Average annual occupancy
VariesCombined taxes and local fees
Investment

Is Airbnb a Good Investment in Burbank, California?

Potentially—Burbank, California combines visitor demand with long-term real estate upside.

  • Presents a nuanced but potentially rewarding opportunity.
  • Current market conditions in Burbank are characterized by a steady demand for short-term rentals, largely driven by its proximity to major film studios (Warner Bros., Disney.
  • This creates a consistent flow of entertainment industry professionals, business travelers, and tourists seeking accommodation.
  • Property values in Burbank are generally high, reflecting its desirable location and strong local economy, which can impact initial investment costs.
  • However, the consistent tourism trends and demand for temporary housing contribute to solid occupancy rates and rental income potential.
Earnings

How Much Does an Average Airbnb Earn in Burbank?

$2,800–$4,500 per month based on location, season, and property quality.

  • Based on available market data, Airbnb hosts in Burbank, California typically earn between $2,800 to $4,500 per month for entire home listings.
  • Properties near major studios and entertainment venues command premium rates of $150-250 per night, while standard residential listings average $80-140 nightly.
  • Seasonal variations show peak earnings during pilot season (January-April) and summer months when television production ramps up, with revenues increasing 25-40% above baseline periods.
  • Key factors influencing earnings include proximity to Warner Bros, Disney, and NBC Universal studios.
  • Additional revenue drivers include amenities like pools, parking availability, and walkability to restaurants along Magnolia Boulevard.
  • The city's strict short-term rental regulations and permit requirements also impact potential earnings.
ROI Analysis

Airbnb Return on Investment in Burbank

Potentially strong—typical annual ROI is 8–12%.

  • Typically generate ROI between 8-12% annually, with properties averaging $150-200 per night and 65-75% occupancy rates throughout the year due to proximity to major studios like Disney, Warner Bros.
  • The average payback period ranges from 8-12 years depending on initial investment and property type, with single-family homes near the entertainment district performing better than condos or apartments.
  • Compared to traditional long-term rentals in Burbank that yield approximately 4-6% ROI with average monthly rents of $2,800-3,500 for similar properties.
Occupancy Rate

Average Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Burbank

Burbank, California averages 65–70% annual occupancy, with seasonal variation.

  • Airbnb occupancy rates in Burbank, California typically average around 65-70% annually, with significant seasonal variations that peak during summer months (June-August) at approximately 75-80% due to proximity to major entertainment studios and increased tourism activity.
  • The lowest occupancy rates occur during winter months (December-February) at around 55-60%, while spring and fall maintain moderate levels of 65-70%.
  • Burbank's occupancy rates generally outperform the California state average of approximately 62% and the national average of 58%, primarily due to its strategic location near Hollywood studios, Burbank Airport.
  • Peak booking periods align with major entertainment industry events, pilot season (January-April), and summer vacation travel.
Best Neighborhoods

Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Burbank

The strongest opportunities balance visitor demand, nightly rates, and acquisition cost.

  • The best Airbnb investment neighborhoods in Burbank include the Media District near Warner Bros and Disney Studios.
  • The Magnolia Park area offers excellent walkability with trendy restaurants and vintage shops, appealing to younger demographics and tourists seeking authentic local experiences while maintaining moderate property acquisition costs.
  • Downtown Burbank provides convenient access to the airport, major studios, and public transportation.
  • The Rancho neighborhood features quiet residential streets with larger properties perfect for family groups and extended stays.
  • The Hillside areas near Griffith Park provide scenic views and proximity to hiking trails, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and tourists wanting a more residential feel while still being close to Hollywood attractions.
  • The Airport District benefits from constant traveler flow with guests needing convenient overnight stays, though rates may be more moderate but occupancy remains consistently high.
  • Finally, the area near Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center attracts medical tourists and visiting families.
Regulations

Short-term Rental Regulations in Burbank

Yes, but only where zoning permits short-term rentals and every required license is current.

  • Burbank, California requires short-term rental operators to obtain a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) through the Community Development Department, with applications requiring detailed site plans, neighborhood notification.
  • Properties must be owner-occupied primary residences, meaning the owner must live on-site for at least 275 days per year and can only operate one short-term rental permit per person.
  • Occupancy is limited to two guests per bedroom plus two additional guests, with a maximum of 10 guests total.
  • The registration process involves submitting a CUP application with fees around $3,000-$5,000, providing proof of residency, liability insurance of at least $1 million.
  • Recent changes implemented around 2019-2020 include stricter enforcement mechanisms with fines up to $1,000 per violation, mandatory annual renewals, enhanced neighbor notification requirements.
Fees and Taxes

Short-term Rental Fees and Taxes in Burbank

Tax rates vary by jurisdiction; licensing, inspection, and insurance costs are additional.

  • Short-term rentals in Burbank, California are subject to several fees and taxes including the city's Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) of 12% on gross rental receipts.
  • Property owners must obtain a Short-Term Rental Permit with an initial application fee of approximately $500-800 and annual renewal fees of around $300-500.
  • Additional requirements include a business license costing roughly $100-200 annually, and compliance with Los Angeles County health department regulations may require inspections with fees ranging from $200-400.
  • Properties must also pay standard property taxes, and hosts are responsible for collecting and remitting California state sales tax of 7.25% plus local district taxes that can add another 2-3%.
  • Fire safety inspections may cost $150-300, and some properties require additional permits for parking or zoning compliance with fees ranging from $100-500 depending on specific circumstances.
Common questions

Burbank, California Airbnb investment FAQs

How to start an Airbnb in Burbank, California?

To start an Airbnb in Burbank, California, begin by researching the city's short term rental regulations, as Burbank requires hosts to obtain a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) and business license, with properties limited to rentals of 30 days or less and subject to a 14% Transient Occupancy Tax.

Launch checklist

  • Contact Burbank's Community Development Department to apply for the CUP ($1,500 to $2,000 fee), which requires neighbor notification and potential Planning Board review, then obtain a business license from the City Clerk's office ($50 to $100 annually).
  • Find a suitable property in residential zones where short term rentals are permitted, ensuring it meets safety requirements including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
  • Furnish the space with quality furniture, linens, kitchen essentials, and amenities like WiFi and streaming services, budgeting $5,000 to $15,000 depending on property size.
  • Create compelling listings on Airbnb and other platforms with professional photos, detailed descriptions, and competitive pricing based on comparable properties in Burbank's market (typically $80 to $200 per night).
  • Manage your property by responding promptly to inquiries, coordinating check ins/check outs, maintaining cleanliness standards, collecting and remitting the required TOT to the city quarterly.
What's the best way to identify good STR properties in Burbank, California?

To identify profitable STR properties in Burbank, California, focus on locations within 2 to 3 miles of major studios like Warner Bros, Disney, and NBC Universal, as well as proximity to Hollywood Burbank Airport and downtown LA transit connections.

What to prioritize

  • Target 2 to 4 bedroom single family homes or condos built after 1980 with dedicated parking, outdoor spaces, and modern amenities that appeal to entertainment industry professionals and tourists.
  • Conduct pricing analysis using AirDNA and Mashvisor to identify properties where potential STR revenue exceeds long term rental income by 40 to 60%, typically ranging from $150 to 300 per night depending on size and location.
  • Research competition by analyzing existing Airbnb and VRBO listings within a 1 mile radius, identifying gaps in amenities or pricing strategies, and noting seasonal demand patterns tied to pilot season (January May) and peak tourism months.
  • Utilize tools like Rabbu, BiggerPockets calculators, and local MLS data through Redfin or Zillow, while consulting Burbank's municipal code for STR regulations and permit requirements.
How to get an Airbnb permit in Burbank, California?

To obtain an Airbnb/STR permit in Burbank, California, you must first apply through the City of Burbank's Community Development Department located at 150 N Third Street, either in person or online through their permit portal.

Documents and approvals

  • Required documents include a completed short term rental application, proof of property ownership or lease agreement with landlord consent, a site plan showing the rental unit location, parking plan demonstrating adequate guest parking.
  • The application fee is approximately $500 to 800 with an annual renewal fee of around $300 to 500, plus potential inspection fees of $150 to 250.
  • The timeline typically takes 4 to 8 weeks for initial review and approval, depending on completeness of application and any required inspections.
  • Burbank specific requirements include limiting rentals to primary residences only (no investment properties), maintaining a minimum 30 day rental period (no nightly rentals under 30 days), providing one parking space per bedroom, ensuring the property meets all building and fire safety codes.
Is it legal to operate a short-term rental in Burbank, California?

Short term rentals (STRs) are currently prohibited in Burbank, California, as the city maintains a complete ban on vacation rentals and short term accommodations in residential zones.

Core operating requirements

  • The Burbank Municipal Code specifically prohibits the use of residential properties for transient occupancy of less than 30 days, effectively banning platforms like Airbnb and VRBO throughout the city.
  • This prohibition applies to all residential areas within Burbank city limits, with no permitted zones for STR operations.
  • The city has maintained this restrictive stance since approximately 2018 to 2019 when many California municipalities began addressing the STR issue.
  • Property owners who operate STRs in violation of the ordinance face code enforcement actions, fines, and potential legal proceedings, making Burbank one of the more restrictive jurisdictions in Los Angeles County regarding short term rental accommodations.
What are the best places to invest in Airbnb in Burbank, California?

The most promising Airbnb investment areas in Burbank, California include the Media District near Warner Bros Studios and Disney Studios, which attracts entertainment industry professionals and tourists on studio tours year round.

Areas to research

  • The Downtown Burbank area around San Fernando Boulevard offers excellent walkability to restaurants, shopping at Burbank Town Center, and the Burbank Airport, making it ideal for business travelers and tourists seeking convenience.
  • The Magnolia Park neighborhood provides a trendy, artistic atmosphere that appeals to visitors interested in vintage shopping, antique stores, and the area's creative culture.
  • The Rancho District near Griffith Park's northern border attracts families and outdoor enthusiasts visiting the park, Los Angeles Zoo, and Autry Museum, while offering easier parking and lower costs than central LA.
  • Finally, areas near Bob Hope Airport (Hollywood Burbank Airport) are highly desirable for business travelers and tourists who prefer the convenience of Burbank's smaller, more manageable airport over LAX, especially those visiting nearby attractions like Universal Studios.
Airbnb and lodging taxes in Burbank, California

Airbnb properties in Burbank, California are subject to multiple lodging taxes including the city's Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) of 12% on gross rental receipts for stays under 30 days. Additionally, hosts must pay California state sales tax of 7.25% plus Los Angeles County sales tax of 0.25% for a combined rate of 7.5% on short term rental income, though this is typically handled separately from the TOT collection.

Taxes and filing responsibilities

  • The city requires hosts to register for a business license and TOT certificate before operating, with properties in residential zones limited to hosted stays only while commercial zones allow unhosted rentals.
  • Stays of 30 days or longer are exempt from TOT but may still be subject to other local regulations, and hosts operating without proper permits face penalties of up to $1,000 per violation plus potential criminal charges for repeat offenses.
Total cost to purchase, furnish and operate an Airbnb in Burbank, California

The total cost to start an Airbnb in Burbank, California is approximately $875,000 to $950,000.

Cost breakdown

  • Property purchase costs around $750,000 to $800,000 based on median home prices in the area.
  • Furnishing a 2 to 3 bedroom property runs $15,000 to $25,000 including furniture, appliances, linens, and décor.
  • Initial setup costs including professional photography, listing creation, and marketing materials total $2,000 to $3,000.
  • Permits and fees including business license, transient occupancy tax registration, and potential HOA approvals cost $500 to $1,500.
  • Insurance including landlord and short term rental coverage adds $3,000 to $4,000 annually.
  • Utilities including electricity, gas, water, internet, and cable average $300 to $400 monthly or $1,800 to $2,400 for six months.
  • First six months operating costs including cleaning services ($150 per turnover), supplies, maintenance, platform fees (3% of bookings), and property management if used.
Are Airbnb properties in Burbank, California profitable?

Airbnb properties in Burbank, California demonstrate strong profitability potential with average nightly rates ranging from $85 to 150 for typical 1 to 2 bedroom units, generating monthly revenues of $2,500 to 4,500 depending on occupancy rates that typically hover around 65 to 75% in this market. Operating expenses including cleaning fees ($40 to 60 per turnover), utilities ($150 to 200 monthly), property management (10 to 20% of revenue), insurance ($100 to 150 monthly), and maintenance costs typically consume 40 to 50% of gross revenue, leaving net profit margins of 25 to 35% for well managed properties.

Profitability indicators

  • Success factors in Burbank include proximity to major studios like Disney, Warner Bros, and NBC Universal which drive consistent business traveler demand, competitive pricing against nearby Hollywood and North Hollywood markets, and properties featuring amenities like parking, fast WiFi.
  • A case study of a 2 bedroom Burbank property near the studios in 2023 showed annual gross revenue of $42,000 with expenses of $18,500, yielding a net profit of $23,500 and 56% profit margin.
What is the expected return on investment for an Airbnb in Burbank, California?

Airbnb investments in Burbank, California typically generate annual ROI of 8 to 12% based on current market conditions, with cash on cash returns ranging from 6 to 10% depending on financing structure and property type. Properties near major studios like Warner Bros and Disney tend to perform better due to consistent business traveler demand, with average daily rates of $120 to 180 for well appointed 2 to 3 bedroom homes.

Return planning figures

  • Initial profitability usually occurs within 12 to 18 months after accounting for setup costs, furnishing, and marketing expenses, though properties in prime locations near Burbank Airport or entertainment districts may reach profitability within 8 to 12 months.
  • The market benefits from year round demand due to the entertainment industry presence, with occupancy rates typically ranging from 65 to 75% annually.
What company can help me find and buy a profitable Airbnb in Burbank, California?

STRSearch leads the market in Airbnb investment property analysis nationwide including Burbank, California.

Companies and resources

  • Local Burbank real estate agents specializing in short term rental investments include Keller Williams Burbank with agents like Sarah Martinez and David Chen, Coldwell Banker's investment division, and RE/MAX Burbank's commercial team.
  • National services include Awning (formerly RedAwning) which launched in 2016, Mashvisor's Airbnb analytics platform established in 2014, BiggerPockets' STR marketplace, and AirDNA's market analysis tools from 2015.
  • Burbank specific services include LA County STR Advisors, SoCal Vacation Rental Consultants, and Burbank Property Investment Group.
  • Additional national platforms serving the area are Roofstock's vacation rental marketplace, Vacasa's investment services since 2009, and AvantStay's co investment opportunities.
  • Local property management companies facilitating investor purchases include Burbank Rental Management, San Fernando Valley STR Services, and LA Metro Short Term Rental Solutions.

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Success Rate
100% profitable track record
Data Accuracy
Proprietary filters, precise forecasts
Service Scope
End-to-end STR investment support
Risk Mitigation
Only cash-flow-positive matches
Expert Network
Vetted realtors, lenders, designers included
Other Services
Success Rate
Inconsistent ROI, no guarantees
Data Accuracy
Generic metrics, inaccurate estimates
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Partial services only
Risk Mitigation
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