Thinking about moving to Long Beach, CA? This guide breaks down what life is actually like, not the highlight reel. Cost of living, neighborhoods, lifestyle, and how Long Beach compares to the South Bay and Greater Los Angeles. Written by a local real estate expert who helps buyers and relocators move here every week.
Quick Summary for Relocators
Long Beach offers a true coastal lifestyle at a lower price point than most beach cities in Los Angeles County. You get beaches, walkable neighborhoods, strong food culture, and easier commutes, but not every area feels the same and choosing the wrong neighborhood can ruin the experience.
Where Is Long Beach and Why Are People Moving Here?
Long Beach sits on the southern edge of Los Angeles County, directly below Los Angeles and next to the South Bay. It borders cities like Seal Beach, Lakewood, Carson, and San Pedro. Many people moving to Long Beach are coming from:
Los Angeles proper
The South Bay (Redondo Beach, Torrance, Hermosa Beach)
Orange County
Out-of-state relocations from Texas, Arizona, Washington, and New York
The appeal is simple. You get a real beach city with more space, more personality, and more flexibility than most coastal LA markets.
What Is the Cost of Living in Long Beach?
Long Beach is not cheap, but it is more attainable than many nearby coastal cities.
Housing Costs
Median home prices are lower than Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach
Condos and townhomes offer real entry points near the water
Property taxes follow standard California rates
Everyday Expenses
Utilities and groceries are similar to the rest of LA County
Dining ranges from casual local spots to high-end waterfront restaurants
Parking and car insurance can vary by neighborhood
Compared to the South Bay, Long Beach often gives you more home for the same budget, especially east of Downtown and in North and East Long Beach.
What Is Life Like Day to Day in Long Beach?
This is where Long Beach separates itself.
Lifestyle Highlights
Actual walkable neighborhoods
Bike paths along the beach
A strong arts and music scene
Independent restaurants instead of chains
Diverse communities and cultures
Long Beach feels more relaxed and less image-driven than many South Bay cities. People move slower here. Flip flops are normal. Surf racks and bikes are everywhere.
Best Neighborhoods in Long Beach for Newcomers
Choosing the right neighborhood matters more than the city itself.
Belmont Shore
Best for walkability, beach access, and lifestyle Balmont Shore:
Close to the beach and Alamitos Bay
Restaurants, shops, and nightlife
Popular with professionals and downsizers
Bixby Knolls
Best for families and long-term living
Larger lots and single-family homes
Strong community feel
Easy freeway access
Naples Island
Best for luxury coastal living
Waterfront homes and canals
Boating and paddleboarding lifestyle
Higher price point but unique experience
East Long Beach
Best for space and value
Quiet residential streets
Proximity to Orange County
Popular with families relocating from LA
Downtown Long Beach
Best for condo living and urban energy
High-rise condos and waterfront access
Close to transit and nightlife
Very block-by-block
Long Beach vs South Bay. Which Is Better?
This depends on what you value.
Choose Long Beach if you want:
More diversity and personality
Better value near the coast
Walkable neighborhoods
A true city feel with beach access
Choose the South Bay if you want:
Highly ranked school districts
A quieter, more suburban feel
A more polished coastal aesthetic
Many buyers start in the South Bay and end up choosing Long Beach after seeing what their budget actually buys.
Commutes and Transportation
Long Beach is more centrally connected than many people expect.
Easy access to the 405, 710, and 22 freeways
A major transit hub for Metro lines
Commutes to Downtown LA, Orange County, and the South Bay are realistic
If you work hybrid or remote, Long Beach becomes even more attractive.
Is Long Beach a Good Place to Raise a Family?
Yes, with the right neighborhood selection.
Strong community pockets
Charter and private school options
Parks, beaches, and outdoor activities
School quality varies by area, which is why working with a local expert matters when relocating.
Who Should Not Move to Long Beach?
Long Beach is not for everyone.
You may want to look elsewhere if:
You want ultra-quiet suburban living
You prefer master-planned communities
You want brand-new construction only
Long Beach is real, layered, and diverse. That is the appeal for most people, but not all.
Final Thoughts on Moving to Long Beach
Long Beach offers one of the best lifestyle-to-value ratios in Southern California. The key is understanding the neighborhoods, not just the city name. Buyers who work with a local expert avoid costly mistakes and end up loving where they land.
If you are planning a move to Long Beach, the South Bay, or Greater Los Angeles, working with a local real estate agent who understands relocation makes all the difference.
To learn more about living in Long Beach or to explore homes that fit your lifestyle, search for a top-rated Long Beach real estate agent or reach out directly for a personalized relocation plan.
Is Long Beach a good place to live?
Yes. Long Beach offers beach access, walkable neighborhoods, and strong lifestyle value compared to nearby coastal cities.
Is Long Beach cheaper than the South Bay?
Generally yes. Long Beach often offers lower home prices and more housing options near the coast.
Is Long Beach safe?
Safety varies by neighborhood. Working with a local expert helps identify the best areas for your needs.
How far is Long Beach from Los Angeles?
About 20 miles south of Downtown Los Angeles, depending on the route and traffic.
Costanza Genoese Zerbi is Long Beach’s top-ranked real estate agent and a #1 RealTrends agent with over 575 homes sold and $485M+ in lifetime sales. With years of local market expertise, Costanza provides buyers and sellers with trusted guidance, neighborhood insights, and data-driven strategies to achieve the best results in Long Beach real estate.
