Long Beach is one of Southern California’s underrated gems. There’s something for everyone if you know where to look. Downtown is often home to concerts and festivals year-round, and active people will enjoy the many locations that are well-suited to biking, walking, or running. And if you value multiculturalism, you’ll find yourself right at home. The variety of neighborhoods allow you to experience a wide range of cultures and lifestyles. The city also manages to feel like a smaller town at times, especially when you compare it to Los Angeles itself. So if huge cities are not your thing, Long Beach is still a good option.
Can I Afford It?
How affordable Long Beach is depends on who you are. Unfortunately, rent in Southern California has been going up slightly faster than inflation. As rents go up, it can become harder to find a suitable apartment. Depending on your income, you might find that it is very easy to manage in Long Beach, or you could find that it is more expensive than you realized. Choosing the right area can go a long way here. All of that said, the situation is still nowhere near the level of nearby cities like Los Angeles or Irvine.
A Small Sampling of Neighborhoods
First, let’s consider the Italian neighborhood of Naples in Alamitos Bay, unique in that it is a set of three islands. Naples is known for having a low crime rate and strong high school graduation rates. Its system of canals brings to mind Venice, giving the place a European charm. Take a trip to Marine Park if you’re in the mood for a picnic or just want to relax.
The trendy East Village is similar to Naples in its lack of crime and high educational attainment. This makes it a safe and inviting place to call home. And if nightlife is your thing, the East Village is probably the choice for you. The range and uniqueness of the venues around here are unmatched. Furthermore, those who like to shop will find much to enjoy in the East Village. In particular, you’ll find elegant antique shops, designer jeans, and other products that are likely to appeal to an artistic crowd.
The last neighborhood we’ll look at is Belmont Shore. It’s fairly close to downtown, especially from 2nd Street. Belmont Shore contains over 10 blocks, and its streets are packed with pubs, specialty outlets, elegant cafes, and unique restaurants. Like the East Village, Belmont Shore is a great location for nightlife. 2nd Street in particular becomes quite active after dark. Of course, during the day you might take a swim in the bay or even take a ride in one of the many gondolas.
While there can be a lot of information to sort through, do your research carefully and you can find the perfect apartment for a new life in Long Beach.