Alright, Been living here since 2005. Rent is about $1,209/month for a decent place. Household incomes average around $71,121 in Long Beach. The unemployment rate is 3.7%, which is pretty low. Average temperature is around 68--F, so the weather is moderate. It's a a small town city with about 16,876 people. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Does this match your experience? It's a very car-dependent city, for better or worse. The suburbs are where most families end up. The weather takes some getting used to. It's changing fast -some good, some not so much. The suburbs are where most families end up. The food scene here is surprisingly good. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. There's a growing tech scene which is exciting. The suburbs are where most families end up. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. Downtown has improved a lot in recent years. The food scene here is surprisingly good. Property taxes are high but you get good services. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Honestly, I think it's a great place if you know where to look. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. It's not perfect, but the community is solid. I'd say it's better for families than young singles. Public transit needs a lot of work honestly. Property taxes are high but you get good services. People here are genuinely friendly, not just surface-level. The suburbs are where most families end up. The suburbs are where most families end up. Night life is decent if you know the right spots. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. Cost of living is definitely rising, but still manageable. The weather takes some getting used to. The food scene here is surprisingly good.
1 upvotes
6 Replies
Kennedy Kim
I've been living here for 15 years and I'd say the quality of life is solid. The dating scene is surprisingly good compared to other places I've lived. Overall No regrets on my end..
36 upvotes
Noah
literally same
31 upvotes
Hailey Carter
I work in consulting here and it's exactly what I was looking for. The job market for my field is decent. No regrets on my end..
21 upvotes
Sebastian Anderson
Gonna give a different perspective here since most replies seem pretty good.
I've been here 11 years and it's improved dramatically in recent years. The thing nobody mentions is outdoor recreation. It's established and it affects daily life more than you'd think.
That said, the dating scene is legit. And if you're into camping, this place is surprisingly good.
Neighborhood matters A LOT here. The Springfield side vs the South side are basically different cities. Make sure you visit both before deciding.
Would recommend to anyone considering it..
15 upvotes
Greyson Gray
Alright, I'll give you the full rundown since I see a lot of surface-level answers here.
I've been in Westside for 15 years. Moved from San Diego for work. Here's my honest, detailed take:
**Housing:**
The market right now is pretty good. We bought in 2017 at k and it's now worth down slightly than that. If you're renting, expect /mo for a decent 4-bed in a safe area. Buying is tough right now, renting is more reasonable.
**Employment:**
finance is strong here. healthcare is hit or miss. If you're remote, you'll love the cost of living. Average salaries are established for the area.
**Quality of Life:**
it's exactly what I was looking for. The outdoor scene is solid - we have rivers within easy driving distance. Dining has gotten so much better in the past few years.
**Schools (if relevant):**
Varies hugely by district. Westside schools are excellent. If you have kids, this should be your number one factor in choosing a neighborhood.
**The Bad:**
I'd be lying if I said everything is great. Urban sprawl is real. Chain restaurants dominate. And cost of living can be frustrating.
**Bottom line:**
For retirees, I'd say this is a 9/10. Good luck with whatever you decide.. Feel free to ask specific questions - happy to help.
10 upvotes
Madelyn Hughes
Not gonna lie, the first year was rough. But once you find your neighborhood and your people, I genuinely enjoy living here. No regrets on my end..
All Countries
