Utility average cost? (Glendale, Burbank: apartment complex, how much, townhouse)

[Amiekbm]

We are relocating from Northern NJ (commuting to NYC) to Burbank. We are here in town for a couple days researching neighborhoods and schools. We're working on a budget and am wondering how much utilities would be on the typical 3br house, townhouse or apartment in Burbank. I figure that water/gardener/association fees will be paid by landlord so we're really talking electricity, gas (do you even have natural gas heat out here?), trash, and maybe your basic cable plan with a DVR and HBO. Any others that I'm missing? Is it worth having a land line, you think? We are a couple with three young kids, FWIW.

Many, many thanks.

[marcief]

Welcome to Southern California. I am originally from the Philadelphia area and have been here since December and love it.
I don't know how helpful this will be since I live in Glendale (which is very close to Burbank) in a two bedroom, two floor townhouse and my electric bill was about $200 for three months. We have electric heat and stove & sometimes use the AC. I am billed a lump sum of about $28 a month for the following: Sewer, trash, utility administrative fee and water.
We have AT&T U-verse which is great. We chose the premium package which is amazing and more than anyone really needs (except my daughter who loves movies) and pay about $180 a month. That includes our land line with unlimited national calling and internet. AT&T U-Verse has a lot of plans so it is worth looking into.
As far a landline I think it is always a good idea in case of an emergency especially with children. I use mine mostly to call my cell phone to find it.
It seems that with bundles packages the cost of a landline is very low.
I hope this was somewhat helpful even though I am not in Burbank.
The apartment complex I am in is Archstone. It has a nice pool and decent gym, amazing maintenance and a great family feel. There is an Archstone in Burbank that you might want to check out.
Good luck with your move!