Life at The Beach: Is Long Beach, CA a Good Place to Live?

Thinking about making a move to Long Beach? Nestled between Los Angeles and Orange County, this coastal city blends laid-back beach vibes with urban convenience. With its Mediterranean climate, vibrant neighborhoods, and diverse food scene, Long Beach has a lot going for it—but like any city, it comes with its share of trade-offs.

Whether you’re considering renting an apartment in Long Beach or exploring homes for sale in the area, this guide breaks down the pros and cons to help you decide if Long Beach is the right place to call home.

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Quick Facts about Long Beach

1. Pro: Housing and living costs are lower than other major CA cities

While Long Beach isn’t cheap, it’s generally more affordable than other major cities in California like San Francisco or Los Angeles. The median home price sits around $771,000, which is relatively lower compared to neighboring coastal markets. Plus, the city offers programs like rental assistance through the Affordable Housing Program and homebuying support via the Long Beach Community Land Trust, helping make housing more accessible for some residents.

2. Con: The overall cost of living is high here

Even though Long Beach is more affordable than cities like L.A. or San Francisco, its cost of living is still high—about 49% above the national average. The median home price is well above the U.S. average of $424,647, and daily expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation can add up quickly, making it a pricey place for many households.

3. Pro: Year-round sunshine and mild temperatures

The Mediterranean climate, featuring mild temperatures and abundant sunshine year-round, is one of the greatest advantages of living in Long Beach. With average high temperatures around 75°F (24°C) in summer and lows around 55°F (13°C) in winter, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a range of activities throughout the year, 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 engagement, with residents participating in outdoor events, sports leagues, and group activities.

4. Con: The air quality is not the best

The air quality in Long Beach can be less than ideal, particularly due to its proximity to major transportation routes and industrial zones. Pollution from vehicles and nearby ports often affects air quality, leading to smog and potential respiratory issues. This environmental concern is exacerbated during hot weather when ground-level ozone can increase, impacting overall health and quality of life.

5. Pro: Ideal for commuters and explorers

Long Beach’s central location between Los Angeles and Orange County offers easy access to a wide range of employment opportunities. With major highways, the Metro Blue Line, and extensive bus routes, commuting to nearby job centers is convenient. The city is also well-connected by air—Long Beach Airport provides regional flights, while LAX and John Wayne Airport are both within a reasonable drive—making work travel and business trips easier. Plus, the nearby Port of Long Beach drives the local economy, creating jobs in trade, logistics, and manufacturing.

6. Con: Property taxes are high

Property taxes in Long Beach are relatively high, reflecting California’s broader tax structure. Homeowners face significant annual tax bills, which can add a considerable financial burden. The high property taxes are a result of the state’s funding mechanisms for local services and schools, and they can influence the overall affordability of living in the area.

7. Pro: There’s endless fun and adventure in Long Beach

Long Beach offers a vibrant lifestyle with something for everyone—from parks and beaches to cultural attractions. Outdoor lovers can enjoy El Dorado Park, Bluff Park, and over five miles of coastline at spots like Belmont Shore and Alamitos Beach. The city’s marinas also make it easy to sail, kayak, or paddleboard. For cultural experiences, visit the Aquarium of the Pacific, explore the historic Queen Mary, or check out the Museum of Latin American Art.

“What makes Long Beach a great place to live is its micro-neighborhoods—each one unique, with its own vibe and community feel,” shares Elizabeth Borsting Public Relations. “A best-kept secret is the Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden on the campus of Cal State Long Beach, which is free to enjoy. Dine Out Long Beach Restaurant & Cocktail Week, held each February, is also a delicious way to explore the city’s dining scene while supporting local restaurants.”

“With a wide array of restaurants, there’s always something exciting happening in the foodie world. If you’re looking for a unique experience, support a small business and try our favorite Italian sandwiches from Angelo’s on 2nd Street. Afterward, stroll along the bay and watch the boats go by—it’s our go-to spot for a fun-filled day out,” recommends Ally & D from Playa Picnics.

8. Con: Long Beach is a popular place to visit

Long Beach is a popular tourist destination, which means that its beaches, attractions, and dining areas can become crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. This influx of visitors can lead to congestion in public spaces and strain on local amenities, potentially detracting from the resident experience and making it challenging to enjoy the city’s attractions without encountering large crowds.

9. Pro: Strong education system for all ages

Long Beach offers access to quality education from early childhood through higher education. The Long Beach Unified School District, one of the largest in California, serves over 70,000 students across 84 schools, with a wide range of programs and a strong focus on student achievement.

For college-level education, California State University Long Beach (CSULB) is known for its academic excellence and diverse degree programs. Long Beach City College (LBCC) provides affordable associate degrees, vocational training, and transfer options. Residents also have the option to pursue legal studies at Pacific Coast University School of Law, which emphasizes hands-on, practical training.

10. Con: The city is prone to earthquakes

The city is situated in a seismically active region, making it prone to earthquakes. Residents must be prepared for the potential of seismic events, which can cause property damage and require significant preparedness and mitigation efforts. The risk of earthquakes is a serious consideration, influencing building codes, insurance costs, and emergency planning for those living in Long Beach.

Methodology: The median home sale price and average monthly rental data is from the Redfin Data Center. The Walk Score, Transit Score and Bike Score data is from Walk Score.