City Profile
Long Beach, California
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city situated in southeastern Los Angeles County, renowned for its distinct urban character, diverse neighborhoods, and massive maritime footprint. Historically known as an aerospace hub and a premier seaside resort area, the city evolved into a major international trade gateway anchored by the Port of Long Beach, one of the busiest container ports in the world. Today, Long Beach blends a relaxed beach-town atmosphere with the cultural density and amenities of a major metropolitan center, featuring iconic landmarks such as the RMS Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific.
People are consistently drawn to Long Beach for its unique balance of urban convenience and coastal living, offering a more approachable and distinct identity compared to neighboring Los Angeles. The city boasts miles of sandy beaches, scenic waterfront paths, and a thriving arts and culinary scene, particularly centered around Downtown, retro Row, and the Arts District. Its active community vibe, historic architectural preservation, and neighborhood-centric lifestyle make it an attractive destination for families, professionals, and creatives seeking southern California coastal living.
Characterized by its moniker as 'The International City', Long Beach is celebrated for its cultural diversity and inclusivity, fostering a dynamic environment where various traditions and communities thrive together. The city's continuous revitalization efforts, combined with major investments in public infrastructure and sustainable urban planning, have further solidified its reputation as a forward-thinking coastal municipality. Whether enjoying the breeze along the Long Beach Shoreline Marina or engaging in the bustling local business ecosystem, residents experience a uniquely multifaceted southern California lifestyle.
California is a diverse and populous state known for its significant economic output, ranking as the fourth largest economy globally if it were an independent nation. Its economy is driven by major industries such as technology (especially in Silicon Valley), real estate, finance, professional services, manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. Living in California generally entails a high cost of living, particularly for housing, which is significantly above the national average. The state boasts a varied climate, ranging from a Mediterranean-like environment with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters in coastal and central areas, to hotter, drier inland summers and colder, snowier conditions at higher altitudes. The lifestyle often emphasizes outdoor activities, health and wellness, and a diverse cultural experience, though it can also involve considerable traffic in major urban centers.
How this 46/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 62 / 100 | 62.0 | 30% | 18.6 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 142.0 | 0.0 | 25% | 0.0 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $87,430 Income needed to live here: $68,000 Unemployment rate: 5.1% | 61.0 | 20% | 12.2 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: no usable reading Job growth rate: 1.6% | 52.0 | 15% | 7.8 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 72 / 100 | 72.0 | 10% | 7.2 |
| Overall score | 45.8 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 3 (deep think), q=80), last refreshed
11 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
Featured Events
Happening in Long Beach
Featured and sponsored events in Long Beach.
Local Directory
Businesses in Long Beach
Featured local businesses in Long Beach.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Long Beach is significantly higher than the national average, driven primarily by housing expenses, state taxes, and the general premium associated with coastal California living. While it tends to be marginally more affordable than immediate neighbors like Los Angeles or Orange County beach cities, residents still face steep costs for essentials such as utilities, groceries, and transportation. Housing remains the single largest financial hurdle for newcomers, with both rental and real estate markets commanding prices well above national benchmarks.
Downward pressure on certain everyday expenses can be found through local markets, extensive public transit options, and competitive pricing in select retail and dining sectors, though these minor savings rarely offset high housing and fuel costs. Energy prices and state regulatory costs also push utility and auto expenses up, making financial planning essential for anyone relocating to the area. Despite these economic hurdles, many residents find the lifestyle, weather, and employment opportunities justify the elevated cost of living.
Income
Salary Insights
Long Beach boasts a robust and diversified job market anchored by global trade, aerospace, healthcare, tourism, and higher education. The Port of Long Beach serves as an economic engine, driving massive employment in logistics, shipping, and supply chain management. Major institutional and corporate employers—including California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), Boeing, Molina Healthcare, and emerging aerospace firms like Rocket Lab—provide a steady stream of professional, technical, and administrative positions.
In recent years, the local economy has experienced steady growth in tech sectors, green energy initiatives, and advanced manufacturing, attracting an influx of entrepreneurs and remote professionals. The city's entrepreneurial climate is supported by local incubators, co-working spaces, and proximity to the broader Los Angeles innovation ecosystem. With average salaries tracking competitively within the Southern California metropolitan labor market, workers across healthcare, engineering, and management find ample opportunity for career advancement.
The average salary in Long Beach is $89,000 per year. You would need approximately $68,000 to live comfortably.
Employment
Top Industries
Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Getting around Long Beach relies on a mix of driving, public transit, and active transportation like walking and cycling. The city features a grid layout that makes vehicular navigation straightforward, though rush-hour traffic along major corridors like Interstate 710 and Pacific Coast Highway can be congested. Public transit is anchored by the Los Angeles Metro A Line (formerly Blue Line) light rail, which connects Long Beach directly to downtown Los Angeles, alongside an extensive municipal bus network operated by Long Beach Transit.
Long Beach is widely recognized as one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in the United States, featuring numerous protected bike lanes and multi-use paths. Walkability scores vary by neighborhood; vibrant districts like Downtown, Belmont Shore, and the East Village are exceptionally pedestrian-friendly, reducing daily reliance on personal automobiles for local errands and dining.
At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Drawbacks
Head to Head
Compare Long Beach
Community Q&A
Questions about Long Beach
What people ask about living in and moving to Long Beach, California.
How are public schools rated in Long Beach?
Public schools in Long Beach are administered by a unified school district that serves the city and surrounding areas. Performance varies by school, but the district provides standardized test scores, graduation rates, and program offerings on its website. Parents typically review these metrics along with school climate surveys to gauge quality. You can also attend district open houses or virtual tours to see facilit...
What is the typical rent for a one‑bedroom apartment in Long Beach?
In Long Beach the average rent across all unit sizes is about $1,900 per month, according to recent market data. One‑bedroom apartments tend to fall near that average, though exact prices vary by neighborhood, building age, and amenities. To get a current snapshot, check online rental listings or contact local property managers. Keep in mind that utilities are often separate, and many landlords require a security dep...
How does Long Beach’s cost of living compare to the national average?
Long Beach has a cost‑of‑living index of 142, meaning it is roughly 42 % more expensive than the U.S. average, which is set at 100. This higher index reflects elevated housing costs, transportation, groceries, and other everyday expenses. Your projected annual salary of $89,000 is above the national median, which can offset the higher costs, but you should still expect to allocate a larger portion of your income to r...
Is Long Beach considered a safe place to live?
Long Beach’s safety score is 62 out of 100, indicating a moderate level of safety relative to other U.S. cities. Crime rates can differ significantly between neighborhoods, with some areas experiencing lower incidents of violent crime and others having higher property‑crime reports. The city publishes annual public safety statistics on its official website, and local law‑enforcement agencies provide neighborhood‑spec...
What industries are strongest for employment in Long Beach?
Long Beach’s economy is diversified, with major employment sectors including the port and logistics, healthcare, education, tourism, and technology services. The presence of a large maritime hub supports many jobs in shipping, warehousing, and related trades. Healthcare facilities and educational institutions also offer a range of professional and support roles. For the most up‑to‑date job listings, browse regional e...
What public transit options are available in Long Beach?
Long Beach is served by a municipal transit authority that operates bus routes throughout the city and connects to regional rail services. The system includes regular local lines, rapid‑bus corridors, and a downtown circulator that links major attractions and employment centers. Riders can purchase day passes or monthly passes, which are often cheaper than maintaining a car. For schedule information, route maps, and...
Where can I find hospitals and clinics in Long Beach?
Long Beach hosts several major hospitals, community health centers, and specialty clinics. Emergency services are available at the city’s primary trauma center, while outpatient care is provided by a network of primary‑care practices and urgent‑care facilities. Most providers accept a range of insurance plans, and many offer sliding‑scale fees for uninsured patients. To locate a provider that matches your needs, use...
What free or low‑cost activities are popular in Long Beach?
Long Beach offers a variety of inexpensive recreational options. The waterfront features public beaches, a boardwalk, and open‑air art installations that are free to enjoy. The city maintains several parks with walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. Cultural institutions often host free admission days or community events, and the downtown area has regular street fairs and farmers’ markets. For a schedule of...
What should I know about moving costs to Long Beach?
Moving to Long Beach typically involves higher transportation costs due to the distance and the city’s cost‑of‑living index. Expect to budget for long‑distance moving company rates, fuel, and possibly temporary storage if your new residence isn’t ready. Because the average rent is $1,900, you’ll likely need to cover the first month’s rent, a security deposit, and moving‑in fees. Some landlords require proof of income...
What’s the overall quality of life like in Long Beach?
Long Beach combines a moderate safety score with a vibrant coastal lifestyle, diverse employment opportunities, and a cost‑of‑living index that is higher than the national average. Residents benefit from access to beaches, cultural venues, and a range of dining options, while also facing higher housing costs, with average rents around $1,900. The city’s public transit and healthcare infrastructure are well‑developed,...
Some answers here were drafted as a starting point and may be out of date. Live in Long Beach? Add your own.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Featured Businesses for Sale in California
Explore active acquisition & franchise opportunities featured across California — none listed in Long Beach yet@else in Long Beach, California.
Senior Care in Long Beach
5 assisted living, nursing & memory care facilities in Long Beach.
Senior Care
Villa Serena Health Care
Long Beach, CA
Senior Care
Alamitos Belmont Rehabilitation Hospital
Long Beach, CA
Senior Care
Colonial Care Center
Long Beach, CA
Senior Care
Ambitions of California Inc
Long Beach, CA
Senior Care
1Heart Caregiver Services – Long Beach
Long Beach, CA
City Guide
Explore Long Beach
Free Quotes
Get quotes from local pros in Long Beach
Tell us what you need and we’ll pass it to companies that serve your area. It’s free, and there’s no obligation.
Compare Long Beach with any city
See how it stacks up on cost, income, and quality of life.
Start Comparing