Living in Long Beach, California: Here’s What You Should Know

Moving to Long Beach, California: Everything You Need to Know

Long Beach, California is a unique blend of coastal charm, big-city energy, and diverse communities. With its vibrant neighborhoods, waterfront views, and proximity to Los Angeles, it offers something for everyone—whether you’re moving to start a new job, retire by the water, or raise a family in a laid-back urban setting. If you’re planning a move to Long Beach, here’s everything you need to know about life in this Southern California gem.

Key Facts About Living in Long Beach

Before diving into the specifics, here’s a snapshot of Long Beach:

Long Beach is more than just a coastal city—it’s a lively hub with a unique identity. Known for its beautiful marinas, strong sense of community, and cultural richness, it’s an ideal location for people seeking a balance between city living and beach relaxation.

✔ Location: 25 miles south of Downtown Los Angeles

✔ Population: Approximately 467,000 residents

✔ Size: Covers over 50 square miles

✔ Climate: Mediterranean with warm, dry summers and mild winters

✔ Nickname: “Aquatic Capital of America”

Pros and Cons of Living in Long Beach

Moving anywhere comes with a set of trade-offs. Long Beach offers a strong quality of life, but also presents a few challenges. Knowing what to expect can help you make an informed decision.

Pros:

✔ Beaches & Parks: Beautiful beaches and scenic waterfront parks

✔ Transportation: Great public transit system including light rail, buses, and water taxis

✔ Diversity: Rich mix of cultures, cuisines, and communities

✔ Neighborhood Variety: Options range from urban high-rises to quiet suburban enclaves

✔ Culture: Vibrant arts, music, and cultural event scenes

Cons:

✗ Cost of Living: Higher-than-average living expenses compared to national averages

✗ Traffic: Heavy congestion during morning and evening rush hours

✗ Air Quality: Environmental concerns near port areas due to industrial activity

✗ Safety: Some neighborhoods experience elevated crime rates

Cost of Living in Long Beach

Living in Long Beach comes at a price, but for many, the benefits far outweigh the costs. Housing, utilities, and groceries are on the pricier side compared to national averages—but still more affordable than nearby coastal metros like San Francisco or Santa Monica.

It’s essential to budget wisely, especially if you’re relocating from a more affordable area. Here’s a general look at what to expect:

✔ Median Home Price: Approximately $850,000

✔ Average Rent: Around $2,650/month for a 1-bedroom apartment

✔ Sales Tax: 10.25% combined rate

✔ Utilities & Transit: Comparable to other major cities in California

Neighborhoods: Where to Live in Long Beach

One of the best parts about Long Beach is the variety of neighborhoods it offers. From artsy districts and historic pockets to family-friendly communities and luxurious waterfront enclaves, there’s a place for everyone.

Marina Pacifica – Upscale and ideal for young professionals. Think waterfront condos, nightlife, and access to boating and kayaking.

Carroll Park – Historic homes, green spaces, and a family-friendly vibe. Close to Cherry Beach and Bixby Park.

East Village Arts District – Trendy, walkable, and perfect for creatives. Expect murals, galleries, and lots of independent shops.

Bixby Knolls – Known for its mid-century homes and strong community feel. Great for families or retirees.

Park Estates – A more affordable option with tree-lined streets and proximity to Cal State Long Beach.

Long Beach Real Estate and Rentals

The real estate landscape in Long Beach is diverse. Whether you’re buying a home or renting an apartment, it’s important to understand the current market.

Homeownership here tends to be expensive, but many residents opt to rent. In fact, around 60% of the population are renters, and that demand keeps the market competitive.

✔ Buying: The average home value is around $850,000

✔ Renting: Studio apartments start around $1,700/month, while larger units in prime areas can exceed $4,000/month

Getting Around

While traffic can be a headache during rush hours, Long Beach is surprisingly easy to navigate thanks to its walkability and public transportation options.

The city has invested heavily in green commuting alternatives like bike lanes and water taxis. Whether you’re commuting to LA or exploring locally, there are a number of ways to get around:

✔ Walk Score: 73 – Most errands can be accomplished on foot

✔ Bike Score: 70 – Very bikeable, with some hills and good infrastructure

✔ Transit Score: 58 – Good public transit options, though not available everywhere

Transportation Options:

✔ Long Beach Transit: Bus routes operate throughout the city and connect to regional transit hubs

✔ Metro A Line: Offers light rail service between Long Beach and Downtown Los Angeles

✔ Water taxis: A fun and scenic option for getting around coastal and harbor areas

Education in Long Beach

If you’re moving with kids or pursuing higher education, Long Beach offers reputable public schools and nationally ranked colleges.

The city places a strong emphasis on educational access, with a mix of public, private, and charter options for families to choose from:

✔ Cal State Long Beach (CSULB): Ranked #3 nationally for social mobility and a top public university in California

✔ Long Beach Unified School District: One of the largest districts in California, serving over 64,000 students across the city

✔ Private & Charter Schools: Wide range of educational options across various neighborhoods

Things to Do in Long Beach

Long Beach isn’t just a place to live—it’s a place to thrive. From cultural landmarks and outdoor spaces to annual festivals and local hangouts, there’s always something happening.

Cultural Attractions:

✔ Aquarium of the Pacific: One of the largest aquariums in the U.S., featuring over 12,000 animals and interactive exhibits

✔ The Queen Mary: Historic ocean liner turned museum and hotel, docked permanently in Long Beach Harbor

✔ Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA): The only museum in the U.S. dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American and Latino art

Parks and Outdoor Spaces:

✔ El Dorado East Regional Park: A sprawling park with lakes, bike paths, and nature trails—perfect for families and weekend getaways

✔ Colorado Lagoon: Restored saltwater wetlands offering swimming, kayaking, and wildlife viewing

✔ Shoreline Aquatic Park: Waterfront green space with views of the lighthouse, marina, and Queen Mary

✔ Palos Verdes Peninsula: Just a short drive away, this coastal escape is great for hiking, photography, and scenic ocean views

Beach Access:

✔ Alamitos Bay: Ideal for water activities like paddle boarding, kayaking, and sailing in a calm, scenic setting

✔ Rosie’s Dog Beach: The only off-leash dog beach in L.A. County—perfect for pets and their humans

✔ Mother’s Beach: Calm, shallow waters with a playground nearby—great for young kids and families

Events:

✔ Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach: World-class IndyCar street racing through downtown, drawing motorsports fans from across the globe

✔ Long Beach Jazz Festival: Multi-day waterfront celebration of jazz, soul, and R&B featuring top-tier artists and food vendors

✔ Juneteenth Celebration: Community-focused event with live music, cultural performances, food, and family-friendly activities honoring African American freedom and culture

Climate and Weather

One of Long Beach’s most appealing qualities is its weather. The city enjoys mild winters and warm, dry summers—ideal for outdoor lovers.

While the climate is generally favorable, it’s still important to plan for the occasional marine layer, earthquake risk, or fire season protocol:

✔ Summer highs: Typically in the low 80s, offering warm but comfortable beach weather

✔ Winter lows: Upper 40s to low 50s, mild compared to most U.S. cities

✔ Humidity: Moderate year-round, balanced by cool ocean breezes

Most buildings follow strict seismic codes, and emergency preparedness is well-managed by the city.

Jobs and Economy

Job seekers will find a robust and diverse economy in Long Beach. From port operations and aerospace to tech startups and universities, there’s a wide range of opportunities.

✔ Top industries: Healthcare, logistics, education, aerospace, and entertainment

✔ Major employers: Port of Long Beach, California State University Long Beach (CSULB), Long Beach Medical Center

With its connection to the global economy via one of the busiest seaports in the world, Long Beach offers both local job stability and professional growth potential.

Food, Drinks, and Nightlife

Long Beach’s food scene is a flavorful reflection of its multicultural identity. Whether you’re into fine dining, global street food, or late-night bites, there’s a place for every palate. Beyond food, the city boasts a solid nightlife scene—from rooftop bars to underground music venues.

Local Favorites:

✔ George’s Greek Cafe: Local favorite for Mediterranean cuisine and a lively atmosphere

✔ Boathouse on the Bay: Waterfront dining with seafood specialties and marina views

✔ Ballast Point Brewing: Craft beers, casual bites, and harbor views from the deck

✔ The Blind Donkey: Cozy whiskey bar offering a large selection and laid-back vibe

✔ East Village Arts District: A hip area full of indie eateries, craft cocktails, live music, and local art

Is Long Beach Safe?

Safety in Long Beach, like many large cities, varies by neighborhood. While some areas report higher-than-average crime rates, others are known for their security and community presence.

✔ Overall crime rate: Higher than the national average

✔ Safest neighborhoods: Belmont Shore, Carson Park, El Dorado Park South

We recommend using city crime maps or neighborhood-specific tools to assess areas you’re considering.

Moving to Long Beach? Poseidon Moving Can Help

Ready to make Long Beach your home? Poseidon Moving is your trusted partner for relocations in and out of California. With years of experience and a reputation for reliability, we handle every detail—so you don’t have to sweat the logistics.

✔ Flat-rate pricing: No hidden fees—ever. Transparent quotes based on inventory and distance.

✔ Full-service options: Packing, loading, transportation, and optional storage handled by pros.

✔ Flexible delivery: Choose between economical truck-share or direct delivery via dedicated truck.

✔ Nationwide service: Serving all 48 contiguous U.S. states with coast-to-coast coverage.

Whether you’re relocating a studio or a five-bedroom home, we make it easy.

Living in Long Beach means embracing a unique coastal lifestyle, full of outdoor activity, arts and culture, and tight-knit communities. From the historic homes of Carroll Park to the nightlife in East Village and peaceful shoreline sunsets, this city blends SoCal relaxation with urban convenience.

If Long Beach is calling your name, take the plunge—and let Poseidon Moving help you get there. Start your journey with a free moving quote and see how easy relocating can be.