Who lands here
Families and professionals who want city living and the coast at a more attainable price than the Westside, plus students and staff at CSU Long Beach. Famously diverse and welcoming.
The vibe
Urban and walkable downtown, with a waterfront, the Queen Mary, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and distinct neighborhoods (Belmont Shore, Cambodia Town and more).
Schools
Served by the large Long Beach Unified district, a national model in many respects, plus charter and private options. Check the assigned school for your address.
Getting around
Among the more transit-served parts of greater LA — the Metro A Line runs to Downtown LA, and downtown Long Beach is walkable and bikeable.
Finding your community
One of SoCal's most diverse cities, home to the largest Cambodian community in the U.S. ('Cambodia Town') and many others. See our community and Eat Local guides.
Now go explore Long Beach
A friendly orientation, not advice. Neighborhoods, schools and prices change and depend on your exact address — always verify school assignments and lease details directly. New to the area? Start with the New to SoCal hub.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Long Beach a good place for families new to Southern California?
Long Beach is the diverse, urban, more affordable coastal city on the LA/OC border — a real downtown, a working waterfront, and one of the most multicultural communities in the region. Families and professionals who want city living and the coast at a more attainable price than the Westside, plus students and staff at CSU Long Beach. Famously diverse and welcoming.
How are the schools in Long Beach?
Served by the large Long Beach Unified district, a national model in many respects, plus charter and private options. Check the assigned school for your address.
Do I need a car in Long Beach?
Among the more transit-served parts of greater LA — the Metro A Line runs to Downtown LA, and downtown Long Beach is walkable and bikeable.