Long Beach Neighborhood Guide

Long Beach is a major coastal city in southern Los Angeles County with beaches, a large port, a walkable downtown and diverse neighborhoods.

This guide gives renters a general overview of Long Beach: what daily life is like, how people get around and what to look for in an apartment. Neighborhood conditions change, so visit at different times of day and talk to residents before you sign a lease.

Living in Long Beach

Long Beach has its own distinct identity, with neighborhoods such as Downtown, Belmont Shore, Bixby Knolls and the East Village Arts District. The waterfront includes the Aquarium of the Pacific and the historic Queen Mary ship, and the city has miles of beach paths. California State University, Long Beach is also located here.

Getting around

The Metro A Line runs between Downtown Long Beach and Downtown LA. Long Beach Transit operates local buses. The 405, 710 and 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) serve the city, and Long Beach Airport offers commercial flights.

Things to do nearby

• Aquarium of the Pacific
• The beach bike and walking path
• Shops and restaurants in Belmont Shore
• Arts and events downtown

Housing and renting

Long Beach offers apartments, condos and homes in a wide range of styles and prices. The city has local tenant protections in addition to state law; check the City of Long Beach for current information.

For official information on tenant protections and housing programs, see the City of Long Beach website. California’s statewide rules, including limits on rent increases and just-cause eviction protections for many units, may also apply. The California Courts’ landlord and tenant self-help pages are a helpful starting point.

Apartment hunting checklist for Long Beach

• Visit the block in the evening and on a weekend to check noise and parking.
• Time your commute during rush hour, by car and by transit.
• Ask whether parking, laundry and utilities are included.
• Ask whether the unit is covered by rent stabilization or a state rent cap.
• Check cell reception and internet providers available at the address.
• Look for natural light, storage and air conditioning, which matters during hot summer days in much of Los Angeles County.
• Never send money for a unit you have not seen in person.

Related guides

• How to find an apartment
• Apartment moving checklist
• Apartment moving checklist
• Rent affordability calculator