Long Beach, often referred to as “The Aquatic Capital of America,” is a city of vibrant possibilities. With its scenic coastline, diverse neighborhoods, and a cultural scene that blends the laid-back California vibe with urban energy, it’s no wonder that many people dream of making Long Beach their home. However, life in this coastal gem comes with its own set of challenges. So whether you’re searching for a modern apartment in Downtown Long Beach or a charming bungalow apartment in Belmont Shore, you’ve come to the right place.
In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll explore the various pros and cons of living in Long Beach, helping you decide if this coastal city is the right place for you.
Fast facts about living in Long Beach
- What is Long Beach known for: Stunning coastline, the Port of Long Beach, and the annual Long Beach Grand Prix
- Fun fact: Long Beach is home to the RMS Queen Mary, a historic ocean liner that’s now a floating hotel and museum.
- Population: Over 470,000 residents in Long Beach proper; part of the Los Angeles metro area with over 13 million residents
- Average rent: $2,752 per month for a one-bedroom apartment
- Median home sale price: $838,000
- Days of sunshine: Approximately 287 days per year
- Public parks: More than 150 parks within the city
- Average summer high temperature: 83°F (28°C)
- Major industries: Shipping, education, healthcare, and tourism
1. Pro: Coastal living with beautiful beaches
One of the biggest draws of Long Beach is its coastal location. Residents enjoy easy access to stunning beaches, including Alamitos Beach, Belmont Shore, and Junipero Beach, where they can surf, swim, sunbathe, and participate in various water sports. The city’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean means that beach days are a regular part of life in Long Beach, offering residents a relaxed, seaside lifestyle.
2. Con: High cost of living
Living in Long Beach comes with a high price tag, especially when compared to other parts of the country. Overall, the cost of living in Long Beach is about 50% higher than the national average. Housing costs are particularly steep, being 137% higher than the national average, with the median sale price for a home in Long Beach around $838,000 and average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Long Beach at $2,752 per month. Additionally, utilities are 13% more expensive, groceries are 12% more, transportation costs are 29% higher, healthcare is 7% more, and lifestyle expenses are 17% more than the national average. These higher costs make it essential to carefully consider your budget before making the move to Long Beach.
3. Pro: Thriving arts and culture scene
Long Beach is a cultural hub, offering a wide range of artistic and cultural experiences. The city is home to the Long Beach Museum of Art, the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA), and the Aquarium of the Pacific, one of the largest aquariums in the United States. Additionally, the city’s vibrant arts district is filled with galleries, theaters, and live music venues. Annual events like the Long Beach Grand Prix, the Long Beach Jazz Festival, and the Long Beach Pride Festival highlight the city’s diverse cultural landscape.
4. Con: Traffic congestion
As part of the greater Los Angeles area, Long Beach experiences significant traffic congestion, particularly during peak commuting hours. The city’s proximity to major freeways like the 405 and 710 means that residents often deal with heavy traffic when traveling to and from work or other parts of Southern California. While public transportation options are available, many residents rely on cars, contributing to the congestion.
5. Pro: Excellent public transportation options
Despite the traffic, Long Beach boasts strong public transportation options. The city is served by the Metro Blue Line (soon to be renamed the A Line), which provides direct access to downtown Los Angeles. The Long Beach Transit system offers extensive bus routes throughout the city and surrounding areas, and the city’s bike-friendly infrastructure makes cycling a viable option for many residents. The ease of public transportation allows for greater mobility without needing to rely on a car. Additionally, many neighborhoods in Long Beach are quite walkable, allowing residents to access local shops, restaurants, and amenities with ease. The ease of public transportation, combined with the city’s walkability, allows for greater mobility without needing to rely on a car.
Long Beach’s transportation scores
- Walk score: 73
- Transit score: 49
- Bike score: 70
6. Con: Earthquake risk
Living in Southern California comes with the inherent risk of earthquakes, and Long Beach is no exception. While modern buildings are designed to withstand seismic activity, the possibility of a major earthquake is something residents must be prepared for. Earthquake preparedness, including securing heavy furniture and having an emergency plan, is an important aspect of life in Long Beach.
7. Pro: Strong job market in key sectors
Long Beach has a diverse and robust job market, particularly in sectors such as shipping, education, healthcare, and tourism. The Port of Long Beach, one of the busiest ports in the world, is a major economic driver, providing numerous employment opportunities. Additionally, the city is home to California State University, Long Beach, which is a significant employer and a hub for education and research. The healthcare sector is also strong, with major employers like Long Beach Memorial Medical Center and St. Mary Medical Center.
Top employers in Long Beach
- Long Beach Unified School District
- Boeing
- Molina Healthcare
- City of Long Beach
- Epson America, Inc.
8. Con: Air quality concerns
Long Beach, like much of Southern California, struggles with air quality issues, particularly due to its proximity to major freeways, the port, and industrial areas. While efforts are being made to improve air quality, residents may experience smoggy days, especially during the summer months. Those with respiratory conditions or concerns about air pollution should take this into account when considering a move to Long Beach.
9. Pro: Diverse dining and food scene
Long Beach offers a diverse and thriving food scene, reflecting the city’s multicultural population. From authentic Mexican cuisine to fresh seafood, there’s something for every palate. Neighborhoods in Long Beach like Downtown Long Beach, Belmont Shore, and Bixby Knolls are known for their wide range of restaurants, food trucks, and cafes. The city’s dining options cater to a variety of tastes and budgets, making it a food lover’s paradise.
Popular restaurants in Long Beach
- The Attic
- Michael’s on Naples
- L’Opera Ristorante
- Nick’s on 2nd
- Roe Seafood
- Plunge
- Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles
10. Con: Tourist crowds
As a popular coastal destination, Long Beach attracts a significant number of tourists, especially during the summer months and on weekends. Areas like the waterfront, Downtown Long Beach, and popular attractions such as the Aquarium of the Pacific can become crowded, making it challenging for residents to enjoy these spots during peak times. The influx of visitors can lead to longer wait times at restaurants, busier beaches, and more traffic, which may be a downside for those who prefer a quieter, more laid-back environment.
11. Pro: Access to outdoor activities and nature
Long Beach offers easy access to a wide range of outdoor activities, both within the city and in nearby areas. The city’s beaches and marinas provide opportunities for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding, while El Dorado Park offers hiking trails, fishing, and a nature center. Nearby, the Palos Verdes Peninsula and the Santa Monica Mountains offer additional hiking and outdoor recreation options, making it easy for residents to stay active and enjoy nature.
Other outdoor activities in Long Beach
- Shoreline Aquatic Park
- Marine Stadium
- Signal Hill Park
- Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden
- Naples Island canals
- El Dorado East Regional Park
12. Con: High sales tax
California has one of the highest sales tax rates in the country, and Long Beach residents are subject to these rates. The combined state and local sales tax rate in Long Beach is around 10.25%, which can add up, particularly for large purchases. While the state’s lack of an income tax may offset this for some, the high sales tax can still impact the overall cost of living.
13. Pro: Vibrant nightlife and entertainment options
Long Beach offers a vibrant nightlife with a wide range of entertainment options. From trendy bars and nightclubs to live music venues and theaters, there’s always something happening in the city. The Pike Outlets and Downtown Long Beach are popular spots for evening entertainment, while the Queen Mary, a historic ocean liner-turned-hotel, offers unique dining and entertainment experiences. Whether you’re looking for a quiet night out or an exciting evening on the town, Long Beach has something to offer.