15 Things to Know About Living in Long Beach, CA

Long Beach, California, is a lively coastal city near Los Angeles. It’s only 20 miles from LA, making it easy for people to enjoy the city’s activities while still feeling like part of a unique community. With its stunning beaches, active local events, and many spots for fun, Long Beach is a great place to live. It’s also more affordable than much of Los Angeles.

About 480,000 people call Long Beach home. It has 84 different neighborhoods, each with its vibe. Even though it’s close to LA, many people drive themselves to work. This shows the city has a strong local feel. Luckily, it costs less to live here than in LA. For example, the rent is about $2,000 monthly, less than Santa Monica’s $3,700 average.

Long Beach offers many opportunities. About 40% of people here make between $50,000 and $150,000 a year. The city’s economy continues to grow. For instance, jobs in downtown Long Beach increased by 6.5% from 2008 to 2015, more than the city’s overall growth rate of 3.9%.

Affordable Living in the Los Angeles Area

Long Beach has many affordable neighborhoods. The median price of a home in the city is $844,933, which is lower than Los Angeles’ median of $496,300. It’s a great place for beachside living and fun on the water, especially on Belmont Shore.

Median Home Prices and Affordable Neighborhoods

California’s cost of living is higher than the national average, but Long Beach is more budget-friendly than Los Angeles. The median home price in Long Beach is $448,800, compared to $975,333 in LA and $459,000 in Modesto.

Bixby Knolls is a top affordable area with good schools, low crime, and many activities for families. The East Village Arts District attracts singles and young professionals. They love its trendy bars and lively atmosphere.

Popular Belmont Shore and Bixby Knolls

Belmont Shore is by the Pacific Ocean. It’s perfect for beach lovers and has many water activities. The area is full of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Bixby Knolls is excellent for families. It has a friendly vibe, low crime, and lots of places to have fun.

East Village Arts District for Singles and Young Professionals

The East Village Arts District attracts singles and young professionals. It’s known for its cool bars, delicious restaurants, and artsy scene. It’s a lively area for those who love urban living.

Growing Job Market and Major Employers

Long Beach, California, has many job chances in different fields. It is a hub for big companies like Boeing, Frontier Communications, and CSULB. The city also has Long Beach Transit and Long Beach Medical Center.

Boeing plays a big role in Long Beach’s job market, and the tech field is growing, too. Zwift and Laserfiche chose Long Beach as their main office.

Jobs in healthcare are also common. The Long Beach Medical Center has many openings. The city’s focus on health services means more jobs for experts in this area.

Education jobs are also available, especially at CSULB. The Port of Long Beach is essential for employment in various fields.

Long Beach is working hard to bring in new businesses and help the ones already there. This work means more jobs for the local community.

Major Employers in Long Beach, CA	Industry
Boeing	Aerospace
Frontier Communications	Telecommunications
California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)	Education
Long Beach Transit	Public Transportation
Long Beach Medical Center	Healthcare
Port of Long Beach	Maritime and Logistics
Zwift	Technology
Laserfiche	Technology

Long Beach is great for jobs, education, and industry growth. It offers many options for people looking for work. The city is keen on helping businesses grow and welcoming new ones, making it a top choice for job hunters.

Convenient Transportation Options

Long Beach has an excellent transportation system. It helps people move around the city and beyond quickly. It’s one of the best places to walk in Southern California. There’s also a strong culture around biking here, with a helpful BikeShare program.

Walkability and Bike-Friendly Paths

Long Beach is perfect for walking and biking. It has clean, easy-to-walk sidewalks and many bike lanes. The BikeShare program lets people rent bikes at many locations, making it simple to see all of the city’s cool spots.

Water Taxis and Public Transit

Long Beach also has transportation by water. The AquaBus and AquaLink are fun ways to move between hot spots. They connect places like The Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific. For travel on land, Long Beach Transit offers cheap bus rides to the city’s spots. There’s even a free shuttle by the Passport Bus, which takes you to fun places downtown.

Transportation Option	Details
Metro Blue Line	Connects Downtown L.A. to downtown Long Beach
Long Beach Transit	Affordable bus service with a one-way fare of $1.25, connecting to local destinations
Water Taxis	AquaBus and AquaLink offer scenic transportation between key locations
Taxi Services	Long Beach Yellow Cab and other providers offer 24/7 service and accept major credit cards
Commuter Express	Connects Long Beach to West Los Angeles, with fares ranging from $4 to $120 for a 30-Day Pass

Long Beach’s mix of transport options keeps travel simple. Getting around is easy with its walkable areas, bike lanes, and buses. This includes the city’s key spots on land and its water-based destinations.

Educational Opportunities at CSULB

California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) in Long Beach, California, is known for its many programs. It has majors like international business, criminology, and marketing. The university also competes in Division I sports, including basketball and soccer. Besides academics and sports, students can join groups like Associated Students, Inc. and Sustain U.

The College of Education at CSULB has several programs for educators. There’s an MA in Education for potential leaders and an MS in Mathematics for math teachers. There’s an MA in Educational Administration for those wishing to lead schools. The MS in Educational Technology helps educators with technology.

CSULB supports those in counseling and psychology with various programs. The MS in Counseling Psychology and School Counseling MS are for those interested. The Special Education and Student Development MS programs focus on different areas of need.

The EOP at CSULB aids underprivileged students with support services, including tutoring, summer preparation, and tech loan services. The program aims to ensure these students excel in college. The EOP Student Organization also encourages high academic standards and good citizenship.

The university has many Colleges, each offering a range of programs. These include the College of Business and the College of Engineering. There is also the College of Health and Human Services, the College of Liberal Arts, and the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.

Retirement Paradise in Long Beach

Long Beach is known for its stunning waterfront views. It offers easy access to the beaches and brilliant year-round weather, making it a top pick for retirement. The city is popular among people aged 55 to 84. It has many retirement communities and excellent healthcare, with places like the Long Beach Medical Center and St. Mary Medical Center ensuring good care.

Retirement Communities and Healthcare

The Long Beach Senior Project creates an excellent place for seniors. They offer 68 homes for those 55 and over with low incomes. The community features 67 apartments with varied rents, plus on-site help. This help includes health and financial programs. These apartments cost between $554 and $1,222 per month.

Outdoor Recreation for Retirees

In Long Beach, retirees have many outdoor activities to enjoy. They can fly from Long Beach Airport or join the local book clubs. Additionally, they can walk with the Long Beach Walking Group. There are also golf courses and El Dorado Park West for events. The Long Beach Senior Center is a place to connect, too.

Median Home Prices in Nearby Cities	Price
Oceano	$566,280
Trinidad	$606,180
Vallejo	$511,780
Oceanside	$705,590
Chula Vista	$704,780
Crescent City	$275,650
Eureka	$362,130
Arcata	$407,860
Oxnard	$631,840
Ventura	$749,900

Outdoor Adventures in Long Beach

Living in Long Beach, California, is great because you’re surrounded by outdoor fun. You can explore places like ShoreLine Aquatic Park or take a quiet bike ride through the city.

Shoreline Aquatic Park is home to the iconic Lions Lighthouse. It’s a significant symbol of the city’s beauty. Nearby, Los Cerritos Park invites people for skateboarding or basketball fun.

El Dorado East Regional Park is a must-visit for those who love nature. Here, you can visit the nature center, go fishing, or walk the trails for scenic views. Every step offers peace and natural beauty.

Bluff Park is another favorite spot, with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s perfect for picnics, jogging, or relaxing in the sun. This park truly connects you to nature.

Long Beach is filled with outdoor activities for everyone. You can try water sports, hiking, biking, or skateboarding. The city’s outdoor wonders are waiting for you to explore.

Outdoor Attraction	Average Rating	Number of Reviews
Pirate Park	4.0	60
Lakewood Barnyard Buddies	4.5	35
Adventure City	4.6	844
El Dorado Frontier	3.6	83
Bixby Park	3.9	66
Marina Vista Park	4.6	25
Pretend City Children’s Museum	3.8	963
Wonder Of Dinosaurs	3.9	388
Adventure Playground	3.9	63
Aloe Greens	4.1	17

This table lists some of the top outdoor places in Long Beach. It tells you the average ratings and how many reviews they got. The numbers show a wide variety of things to do here.

Long Beach has something for everyone, from calm parks to exciting activities. You’ll find it here whether you love nature, adventure, or just beautiful views. This city by the sea has endless outdoor treasures to discover.

Beachside Living and Activities

Long Beach sits on the stunning Southern California coast. It sees about 290 sunny days a year and temperatures from 60 to 80 degrees. This weather is perfect for enjoying the city’s excellent beaches and fun outdoor activities.

Belmont Shore Beach is a top pick for swimming, sand volleyball, and sunbathing. Nearby, Mother’s Beach has a safe swim area, green spaces, and snacks for families. Junipero Beach is great for joggers and fitness lovers, while Ocean Boulevard is perfect for kitesurfers.

Long Beach’s sunny weather, wide sandy beaches, and various beach activities offer the perfect beach life. It’s a great place to swim in the Pacific, play beach volleyball, or just relax under the sun. The dynamic coastal scene in this city has something for everyone.

Marina Culture and Water Activities

Long Beach is known for its marina culture, deeply tied to its rich maritime history. The Long Beach Shoreline Marina is a crucial spot for those into sailing and fishing. It offers easy access to the Pacific Ocean. Alamitos Bay Marina and Cerritos Bahia Marina let people enjoy cruising the calm waters. They also have great places to eat in the water and see the sea life.

Rainbow Marina is perfect for those who love adventure. Here, you can go whale watching, join fishing trips, and hike to the Long Beach Lighthouse. The Shoreline Yacht Club in the Downtown Shoreline Marina is an excellent place for all things sailing. They have classes, cruises, and races that welcome beginners and experts alike.

Season	Water Activities
Spring	Kayaking in the Naples CanalsWhale watching toursBelmont Shore beachfront biking
Summer	Jet skiing and parasailingBeach volleyballSailing at Alamitos Bay
Fall	Naples Island Gondola rideExploring the El Dorado Nature CenterBrowsing the Long Beach Antique Market
Winter	Visiting the Aquarium of the PacificWhale watchingExploring the Queen Mary’s Chill

Along with water activities, Long Beach offers fun year-round at The Ultimate Escape Rooms. Here, people can try to solve puzzles in escape room challenges. Being close to LA and a hub of marine traffic, Long Beach merges sea culture with city life in a unique way.

Downtown Long Beach Attractions

Downtown Long Beach is known for its many activities. Here, you can find great places to eat and shop. You can also learn about the area’s history at the Queen Mary.

Bring your dog to play at Rosie’s Dog Beach. Or visit the Farmers Market for fresh food and flowers. For food lovers, join a Long Beach Food Tour to sample the city’s top spots.

The lively Pine Avenue is full of places to shop and eat, and the Pike Outlets area has a 90-foot Ferris wheel. Both are great for fun outings.

Looking for fun on the water? Head to Marine Park. You can kayak, swim, and enjoy other water activities. It’s a great way to experience life by the sea in Long Beach.

Attraction	Rating	Reviews
Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden	4.4	357
Aquarium Of The Pacific	4.1	3.1k
Hilltop Park	4.6	318
Shoreline Park	4.6	82
Skinny House	4.3	18
Adventure City	4.6	844
Gondola Getaway	4.7	820
Shoreline Village	3.9	248
Cerritos Sculpture Garden	4.5	92
Battleship USS Iowa Museum	4.5	514

Downtown Long Beach has something for everyone, from the Queen Mary’s history to Marine Park’s outdoor fun. Whether you’re shopping, eating, or enjoying nature, you’ll find it here.

Vibrant Street Art and Murals

Long Beach has become known for its lively street art and murals. The works are created by both local and visiting artists. Every year, the city hosts POW! WOW! Long Beach. Artists turn walls and public areas into fantastic art pieces during this event.

The Long Beach East Village Arts District is full of visual delights. It features art galleries, colorful murals, and past POW! WOW! projects. These artworks have greatly affected the community. The Lindbergh neighborhood also stands out. Here, the “A Neighborhood Perspective” series shows life through the eyes of locals.

Another highlight is the “Coastal Passage” mural project, which celebrates California’s coastline. Artists have painted stunning natural scenes on coastal walls.

The Long Beach Walls and Art Renzei festival is essential for the city’s art scene. Since 2015, it has led to over 130 murals being painted in a 40-square-mile area. This year, the event focuses on linking artists from different generations and giving new artists a platform to show their creativity.

Whether it’s the bold murals in the East Village, the insightful artwork in the Lindbergh neighborhood, or the beautiful Coastal Passage project, Long Beach is rich with artistic expression. The street art and murals here are always changing. They’re a must-see for anyone who loves art, whether you’re from the area or just visiting.

Arts and Cultural Scene

Long Beach, California, is known for its lively arts and culture. It’s packed with museums, theaters, and events that showcase the city’s mix of artistic talents. Long Beach’s art and culture scene shows how the city supports creativity and brings people together.

Museums and Art Galleries

The city’s key art spots include the Long Beach Museum of Art and MOLAA. The Long Beach Museum of Art holds 3,200 pieces from 300 years of American and European art, while MOLAA showcases art from 20 Latin American countries. CSULB’s Carolyn Campagna Kleefeld Contemporary Art Museum also features modern art and fun events.

Performing Arts

Long Beach thrives in the performing arts, too. The Art Theatre and the Long Beach Playhouse are vital spots. The Playhouse offers a range of plays. The City’s Convention Center is a hub for significant events, from tech to horror.

The Long Beach Symphony and Long Beach Ballet are big draws. The Ballet’s Nutcracker performance is a highlight for over 36 years. The City also enjoys excellent theatre from the ICT and Musical Theatre West.

Long Beach’s dedication to the arts is clear. Its museums, galleries, and theaters offer a wide range of experiences. There’s something for everyone, making the city a vibrant cultural hub.

LGBTQ-Friendly Community

Long Beach, California, is known as a top LGBTQ+-friendly city in the US. It has a history of welcoming everyone, especially the LGBTQ+ community.

The city hosts the Long Beach Pride event every year. This event showcases the city’s love for diversity. Over 200 groups participate in the parade, which is the third biggest Pride parade in California.

The LGBTQ Center in Long Beach is a crucial spot for the community. It offers help, support, and a place for people to meet. Moreover, Long Beach has many great lgbtq-friendly bars and clubs, adding to its lively atmosphere.

Long Beach’s love for different people doesn’t stop at the LGBTQ+ community. Many events throughout the year, including the Acura Grand Prix, Long Beach Jazz Festival, and Sea Festival, showcase the city’s rich culture and keep the fun going.

Because of its ongoing support, events, and happy LGBTQ+ scene, Long Beach is a main lgbtq-friendly place in the US.

Get the Best Seafood

Long Beach is a top spot for seafood on the Pacific Coast, offering delicious dishes like lobster, crab, and oysters! Here are some great places to check out:

Big Catch Seafood House: Try the Crabby Platter, Lobster Clam Pasta, or a Salmon Sandwich.
Roe Seafood: Enjoy King Crab Legs, Fish & Chips, or Pan Seared Scallops.
Long Beach Fish Grill: Try a grilled mahi mahi taco, Grilled Salmon Salad, or a Catfish Plate.
King’s Fish House: Check the daily menu for Trout Amandine, Panko Fried Shrimp, or Wild Mexican Swordfish.
Parkers’ Lighthouse: Dine outdoors on Sesame-Crusted Ahi Tuna, Seafood Cob Salad, or Seared Jumbo Sea Scallops.
Gladstone’s Long Beach: Enjoy water views while eating Baked Lobster Tail, Jamaican Jerk Salmon, or Parmesan-crusted halibut.
The Boathouse on the Bay: Try the Baja Taco Trio, Blackened Shrimp & Angel Hair Pasta, or Lemon Buerre Blanc Salmon.

These spots offer fantastic seafood dishes that you’re sure to love!

Dine at Local Restaurants

Long Beach has some of the best restaurants in the LA area! Start your weekend morning at Saint & Second with an Old-Fashioned Pancakes or a Smoked tr-tip hash and a Cafe a lait. For Italian food, visit Michael’s in Naples and enjoy dishes like Spaghetti Aragosta, Petto D’Anatra, or Mezzaluna. At Panxa Cocina, you can try the Green Chile Panxa Burger, Seafood Enchiladas, and Chimayo Posole. Sura Korean BBQ & Tofu House offers tasty options like Korean Fried Chicken Wings, Bulgogi Bibimbap, or Pork Belly Kimchi Jjigae.

For a great waterfront dining experience, go to Tantalum and order the Tantalum “Kobe Beef” Burger, Spicy Crab Crusted New York Strip, or Scottish Salmon. If you prefer something casual, Seabirds Kitchen has delicious choices like the Beer Battered Avo Taco, Jackfruit Nachos, or Beets Me Burger. Finally, check out The Ordinary for White Cheddar & Scallion Popovers, Bluegrass Sandwich, or Grilled Ribeye.

Discover Long Beach’s Bustling Nightlife

Long Beach is buzzing with bars and nightclubs where you can enjoy drinks and have a great time! Relax on the patio at The Good Bar and Eatery with an ice-cold beer or cocktail like the Ay Papi Paloma or Peonies In Jade, alongside tasty bites like Zucchini Sticks or Nachos. Mezcalero offers weekly DJs and cocktails, such as the Moscow Mule and Kentucky Fizz.

The Stave is perfect for drinks like the Long Beach Cooler, while Alegria Nightclub serves Pina Coladas and hosts live music. Shannon’s Bayshore is great for a game of pool with drinks like the House Margarita or Belching Beaver Peanut Butter Stout. Cowboy Country Saloon offers free dance lessons and live music. Enjoy brews like LB Blonde and Second Breakfast with friends at Long Beach Beer Lab!

living in Long Beach, CA

Long Beach, CA, is a vibrant coastal city with a rich culture and plenty of things to do for everyone, whether young or old; Long Beach welcomes you with open arms.

This city’s charm is hard to miss. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, lively community, and endless opportunities. Long Beach is an ideal spot, With many affordable places to live and jobs on the rise.

The cost of living in Long Beach is lower than in other nearby places. A house here costs around $785,000, which is cheaper than in many places nearby. Plus, the neighborhoods are diverse, adding to the city’s appeal.

Imagine living by the beach in a city perfect for outdoor activities. Long Beach has over five miles of coastline. Areas like Belmont Shore and Alamitos Beach are great for fun in the sun and meeting up with friends and family.

Education is vital in Long Beach. Schools like CSULB and LBCC offer many programs. The LBUSD is also one of the largest in California. It helps over 70,000 students annually, making it an excellent place for families.

Long Beach is a melting pot of cultures. It celebrates diversity through events like the Pride Parade and New Year celebrations, which show how the city supports its different communities.

Jobs are growing in Long Beach. Companies like Boeing and Molina Healthcare have offices here. The city is easy to get around, with bike paths and great transport, which makes living and working in Long Beach even better.

In summary, Long Beach is more than a city by the sea. It’s a place to enjoy life, find work, and be part of a rich culture. Consider making Long Beach your home if you want a great place to live.

Conclusion

Long Beach, California, is a city by the sea that is full of life. It has something for everyone, from affordable homes to a wide selection of jobs. The city is known for its outdoor fun, schools, and lively arts scene.

Its easy-to-use transportation and welcoming to all LGBTQ+ groups make it special. Not to forget the stunning beaches. Its rare mix of city and coastal life welcomes you. Looking to start a family, continue studying, or retire? Long Beach welcomes you. Its mix of people, many parks, nature, and efforts for a green future stand out. This makes Long Beach a top choice for a great life.

Its strong job market and a place buzzing with culture mean everyone fits in. Its economy is sound, and fun is always around. As a result, more and more people choose Long Beach as their go-to place near Los Angeles. Overall, Long Beach is affordable and has lots to do, making it a perfect home. Long Beach is unbeatable for a life where the city and beach meet.

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FAQs

What makes Long Beach so special?

Well, for starters, its location is hard to beat. With its beautiful coastline and temperate climate, you can enjoy sunny beach days practically year-round. Plus, the city offers a variety of cultural events, festivals, and a thriving art scene that truly sets it apart.

Is Long Beach LGBTQ+ friendly?

Absolutely. Long Beach prides itself on being an LGBTQ+ inclusive city. The LGBTQ+ community is embraced and celebrated here, with numerous bars, clubs, and events tailored to their interests. Icons like the Sweetwater Saloon are safe spaces for everyone to come together and have a great time.

Is there a cost of living advantage to living in Long Beach?

Compared to other cities in Southern California, such as Los Angeles or San Diego, Long Beach offers a more affordable cost of living. While prices vary depending on the neighborhood, housing, groceries, and transportation costs are generally lower than in neighboring cities, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more budget-friendly lifestyle.

What are the best neighborhoods in Long Beach?

Long Beach boasts an array of unique neighborhoods, each with charm and character. Belmont Shore and Naples Island offer waterfront living with stunning views, while Retro Row and Bixby Knolls are known for their trendy shops and restaurants. No matter where you choose to reside, you’ll find a sense of community and a place you can call home.

Is commuting easy in Long Beach?

Getting around Long Beach is relatively easy, thanks to its well-connected public transportation system. The Metro Blue Line provides easy access to downtown Los Angeles, while buses and bike lanes offer alternative modes of transportation. Additionally, Long Beach is a bike-friendly city, with many residents using bikes as their primary means of commuting.

How are the schools in Long Beach?

Long Beach is home to various public and private schools, offering options for families with children of all ages. The Long Beach Unified School District is known for its high graduation rates and diverse educational programs. Additionally, the city is home to California State University, Long Beach, which offers many academic opportunities.

What outdoor activities can you enjoy in Long Beach?

Living in Long Beach means easy access to many outdoor activities. The city offers beautiful beaches to swim, surf, or simply lounge in the sun. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can kayak in Alamitos Bay or ride a bike along the beach path. For nature enthusiasts, the El Dorado Nature Center provides a serene escape where you can hike, bird-watch, or picnic.

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