If you’re wondering if Long Beach is a great place to live, the answer is yes. With its Mediterranean climate, prime location and abundant recreational opportunities, it is sure to appeal to people of all tastes and backgrounds. From a strong education system and employment opportunities to a welcoming and inclusive community, Long Beach is a city that truly shines.
In this Redfin article, we’ll take a closer look at why Long Beach is such a wonderful city. Whether you are interested in renting Long Beach Apartmentslooking at Homes for sale If you’re in the area, or just curious about what this city has to offer, read on to learn why Long Beach is a great place to call home.
Interested in moving to Long Beach? Check:
Homes for sale in Long Beach, CA | Apartments for rent in Long Beach, CA | Long Beach CA Houses for Rent
Basic information about Long Beach
Median home sales price | $838,000 |
average monthly rent | $2,280 |
walk score | 73/100 |
traffic score | 49/100 |
bike score | 70/100 |
1. Advantages: Housing and living costs are lower than other large cities in California
Cost of living in Long Beach Generally lower than other California cities such as San Francisco and Los Angeles. also, Long Beach Median Home Price About $838,000, which is relatively low compared to other Southern California cities. This makes it an affordable option for those who want to live in a vibrant and culturally diverse city without breaking the bank.
This city has various ideal communityeach with its own unique character and housing options. Belmont Shore, for example, is a popular community that offers a range of housing options from apartments to single-family homes. Bixby Knolls is another popular area known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets.
Long Beach also offers several programs to assist residents with affordable housing options. The city’s affordable housing program provides rental assistance to low-income families, while the Long Beach Community Land Trust helps people purchase homes at below-market prices. These measures are designed to make housing more accessible and affordable for residents, ensuring Long Beach remains an attractive place to live for a variety of individuals and families.
2. Disadvantages: The overall cost of living here is high
While housing costs in Long Beach are low compared to other popular California cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco, they are still quite high, with the median home price approximately $395,000 higher than the national median of $442,451. The cost of living in Long Beach is approximately 50% higher than the national average, making it an expensive place to live. In addition to high housing costs, overall expenses such as groceries and utilities exceed the national average, placing a heavy financial burden on life in the area.
3. Advantages: Sunny weather all year round, mild temperatures
The Mediterranean climate, with mild temperatures and abundant sunshine throughout the year, is one of its biggest advantages. live in long beach. With average summer high temperatures around 75°F (24°C) and average winter lows around 55°F (13°C), outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities year-round, from surfing, swimming, and paddleboarding to jogging, Cycling and hiking. The city’s numerous parks, beaches, and recreational areas cater to an active lifestyle, while the pleasant weather fosters a strong sense of community, with residents participating in outdoor activities, sports leagues, and group activities.
4. Disadvantages: Air quality is not the best
Long Beach’s air quality can be less than ideal, especially because of its proximity to major transportation routes and industrial areas. Pollution from vehicles and nearby ports often affects air quality, causing smog and potential respiratory problems. In hot weather, ground-level ozone increases, exacerbating this environmental problem and affecting overall health and quality of life.
5. Pros: Great for commuters and adventurers
Long Beach is strategically located between Los Angeles and Los Angeles orange county Provide residents with easy access to diverse employment opportunities, entertainment options and cultural attractions. The city has excellent transportation infrastructure, including major highways, the Metro Blue Line, and bus routes, ensuring an easy commute to neighboring areas. This prime location allows residents to benefit from nearby job opportunities while enjoying Long Beach’s relaxed coastal lifestyle.
In addition to its proximity to major employment centers, Long Beach is also close to important airports and ports, providing residents with extensive travel and economic opportunities. Long Beach Airport is within city limits and offers regional flights, while Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Orange County’s John Wayne Airport are both within a reasonable drive.
The city’s proximity to the Port of Long Beach, a major hub for international trade, contributes to the local economy and provides logistics, transportation and manufacturing jobs. Additionally, the city’s coastal setting allows for a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and water sports, while enjoying a mild and pleasant climate and refreshing sea breezes.
6. Disadvantages: Real estate taxes are high
Property taxes in Long Beach are relatively high, reflecting California’s broader tax structure. Homeowners face large tax bills each year, which can add considerable financial burden. High property taxes are the result of state funding mechanisms for local services and schools, and they impact the overall affordability of living in the area.
7. Pros: Endless fun and adventure in Long Beach
Long Beach’s vibrant lifestyle caters for a variety of interests, from parks and beaches to water activities and cultural attractions. The city is home to numerous parks, such as the 800-acre Eldorado Park and scenic Bluff Park, perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. Popular beaches like Belmont Shore and Alamitos Beach have more than 5 miles of shoreline and offer opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, while marinas and harbors are suitable for sailing, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
In addition, Long Beach is home to several world-class cultural attractions that offer unique recreational experiences. Located in Rainbow Harbor, the Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the largest aquariums in the United States and features a variety of marine life from the Pacific. The Queen Mary is a historic ocean liner converted into a floating hotel and museum that offers tours, exhibitions and events showcasing its rich maritime history. With an impressive collection of Latin American and Latino art, the Museum of Latin American Art is another cultural gem that provides residents with a unique entertainment and educational experience.
8. Cons: Long Beach is a popular tourist destination
Long Beach is a popular tourist destination, which means its beaches, attractions, and dining areas can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season. The influx of visitors can cause congestion in public spaces and put pressure on local facilities, which can impact residents’ experience and make it difficult to enjoy the city’s attractions without encountering large crowds.
9. Advantages: A strong education system suitable for all ages
Long Beach has a robust education system with renowned colleges, universities, and schools that provide residents with quality education. California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) offers a diverse curriculum and is known for academic excellence. Long Beach City College (LBCC) offers associate degrees, career training, and transfer programs, while Pacific Coast University School of Law (PCU) emphasizes practical legal education.
Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD) is the third largest school district in California, serving more than 70,000 students in 84 schools, offering diverse educational programs and a commitment to student success. Long Beach offers quality education at all levels and is an attractive place to live for those seeking opportunities for learning and personal growth.
10. Cons: The city is prone to earthquakes
The city is located in a seismically active area and is prone to earthquakes. Residents must prepare for potential seismic events that can cause property damage and require extensive preparation and mitigation efforts. Earthquake risk is a serious consideration that impacts building codes, insurance premiums and emergency plans for Long Beach residents.
Methodology: Median home sales price and average monthly rent data come from Red Fin Information Center. Walk score, transit score, and bike score data come from walk score.