Salary, Cost of Living & Best Neighborhoods in North Long Beach, CA

Last Updated: October 2, 2025By Tags:
North Long Beach, CA

North Long Beach CA Salary And Cost Of Living Overview

North Long Beach, CA, is a diverse residential community located in the northern section of the City of Long Beach. As more professionals, families, and long‑time residents weigh their housing and career options, understanding the salary expectations and cost of living in North Long Beach, CA has become increasingly important. From local job markets to housing prices and school quality, this area offers a unique blend of affordability (for coastal Southern California) and urban convenience.

Below, we will explore average salaries, overall living expenses, home values and rents, best neighborhoods, and local schools in North Long Beach, California, with a focus on providing helpful, locally optimized information for people considering a move or investment in the community.

Average Salary In North Long Beach CA

When evaluating whether North Long Beach, CA is a good fit for your budget and lifestyle, it is essential to start with income levels. While exact salaries vary by occupation and experience, residents typically draw from employment opportunities in Long Beach, the greater Los Angeles region, and nearby employment centers such as Torrance, Carson, and Orange County.

The table below summarizes estimated average annual salaries in and around North Long Beach, CA, synthesized from regional and citywide data:

Job Category Estimated Average Salary (Annual)
Entry‑Level Service & Retail $32,000 – $40,000
Skilled Trades & Technicians $45,000 – $65,000
Administrative & Office Support $45,000 – $60,000
Healthcare & Education Professionals $60,000 – $90,000
Business, Tech & Engineering $80,000 – $120,000+

Average household income in the broader Long Beach area often falls in the $70,000 to $85,000 range, with North Long Beach reflecting similar but slightly more affordable demographics compared to coastal neighborhoods. Commuters can leverage the region’s major freeways and transit access to reach jobs throughout Los Angeles and Orange County, often earning big‑city salaries while benefiting from relatively lower local housing costs.

Cost Of Living In North Long Beach CA

The cost of living in North Long Beach, CA, is generally lower than in many coastal neighborhoods of Long Beach and significantly less than in high‑end Los Angeles communities. Even so, it remains higher than the U.S. average due to California’s housing, transportation, and tax environment.

Below is an illustrative cost of living comparison, with the U.S. national average indexed at 100 points:

Expense Category North Long Beach CA Index Notes
Overall Cost Of Living 135 – 145 Higher than U.S. average, lower than many LA coastal areas
Housing 150 – 170 Main driver of higher living costs
Groceries 110 – 120 Moderately above national average
Transportation 120 – 130 Fuel, insurance, and commuting costs add up
Healthcare 105 – 115 Slightly above average, with multiple providers nearby
Utilities 95 – 105 Tempered by mild coastal climate

Housing costs are the single largest factor in the cost of living in North Long Beach, CA. However, residents often highlight that the neighborhood’s relative affordability within the Long Beach market allows them to stay close to major employment centers, beaches, and cultural amenities without paying the premium demanded by coastal ZIP codes.

Average Home Values And Rents In North Long Beach CA

Housing in North Long Beach primarily consists of single‑family homes, bungalows, duplexes, and low‑rise apartment buildings. Compared to other neighborhoods in Long Beach, North Long Beach has historically offered more attainable price points for first‑time homebuyers and renters, though values have risen in recent years.

Housing Metric Estimated Amount
Median Home Value (North Long Beach CA) $600,000 – $700,000
Typical Single‑Family Home Range $550,000 – $750,000+
Average Monthly Rent – 1 Bedroom $1,700 – $2,100
Average Monthly Rent – 2 Bedroom $2,000 – $2,600
Average Monthly Rent – 3+ Bedroom Home $2,700 – $3,500+

To visualize how housing costs break down between renting and owning in North Long Beach, CA, consider the simplified chart below:

Housing Type Approximate Monthly Cost
Renting 1–2 Bedroom Apartment $1,700 – $2,600
Renting 3 Bedroom Home $2,700 – $3,500+
Owning Median‑Priced Home (P&I Only) $3,200 – $3,800 (depending on rate & down payment)

For many households, renting remains more accessible in the short term, while buying a home in North Long Beach, CA can provide long‑term equity and stability when combined with steady local income.

Best Neighborhoods In North Long Beach CA

Within North Long Beach, several micro‑neighborhoods and corridors stand out for their housing stock, community amenities, and local feel. While boundaries can be informal, the following areas in and around North Long Beach, CA are often considered appealing by residents and homebuyers:

Neighborhood / Area Key Characteristics
Hamilton / Coolidge Area Primarily residential with single‑family homes, convenient access to major routes, and neighborhood schools.
Addams Neighborhood Established residential streets, a mix of older homes and updated properties, close to parks and local services.
Jordan / Ramona Park Area Access to Ramona Park, community centers, and proximity to educational facilities, attractive to families.
North Long Beach Corridors Commercial corridors with small businesses, restaurants, auto shops, and services supporting local employment.

In general, North Long Beach, CA’s best neighborhoods provide a balance of affordability, community resources, and access to major employment hubs. As revitalization efforts and infrastructure improvements continue across the city, many residents see strong potential for long‑term neighborhood growth and stability in the northern districts.

Schools In North Long Beach CA

Families evaluating the cost of living and quality of life in North Long Beach, CA often place a high priority on local schools. North Long Beach is served by the Long Beach Unified School District (LBUSD), a large and well‑known district in Southern California.

Several public elementary, middle, and high schools are located in or near North Long Beach, including:

School Level Sample Schools Serving North Long Beach CA Highlights
Elementary Various LBUSD elementary schools within North Long Beach Neighborhood‑based, with programs in literacy, math, and enrichment activities.
Middle Jordan feeder middle schools and other LBUSD campuses nearby Offer preparation for high school pathways, sports, and arts programs.
High School Jordan High School and other LBUSD high schools Career pathways, college‑prep coursework, athletics, and extracurricular opportunities.

LBUSD is recognized regionally for its innovative programs and diverse student population. For parents, it is wise to review current school ratings, specialized academies, and magnet options, as well as to visit campuses if possible. When combined with local parks, libraries, and community centers, North Long Beach, CA offers a supportive environment for students at various grade levels.

Living In North Long Beach CA Balancing Salary And Lifestyle

When you consider the salary potential and cost of living in North Long Beach, CA, a clear picture emerges: this community can offer a relatively attainable path to homeownership and stable renting within the broader Southern California market. While housing costs remain high compared to the national average, they are often more reasonable than many coastal LA and Orange County neighborhoods, especially for buyers willing to invest in older properties or up‑and‑coming streets.

For professionals and families earning area‑typical salaries, the key to success in North Long Beach, CA is aligning your housing choice—whether renting or buying—with your income level and long‑term goals. With diverse neighborhoods, improving amenities, and access to the employment centers of Long Beach and the larger Los Angeles region, North Long Beach continues to attract residents who want a balance of affordability, opportunity, and urban convenience.

Living in North Long Beach, CA: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the general cost of living like in North Long Beach, CA?

North Long Beach generally has a lower cost of living compared to many other parts of coastal Los Angeles County, but it is still higher than the national average. Housing tends to be more affordable than in central and coastal Long Beach neighborhoods, with a mix of single-family homes, small apartment buildings, and some newer developments. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are comparable to the broader Los Angeles area. Renters and buyers should budget for higher insurance and property taxes than in many inland regions, and factor in commuting costs if working outside the neighborhood.

What are the housing options and neighborhood character in North Long Beach?

North Long Beach features predominantly residential streets with older single-family homes, duplexes, and small apartment communities, along with select newer townhome and infill developments. The neighborhood has a more suburban feel than coastal Long Beach, with many tree-lined blocks and local commercial corridors running along major streets. Residents will find a diverse community with long-term homeowners and renters alike. While some areas are more active and dense near major thoroughfares, quieter residential pockets offer a more relaxed environment, especially on interior streets away from heavy traffic.

How is the commute and public transportation in North Long Beach?

North Long Beach offers convenient access to several major freeways, including the 91, 710, and 605, which is beneficial for commuters traveling to downtown Long Beach, Los Angeles, or Orange County. However, traffic congestion during peak hours can significantly increase travel times. Public transportation is provided mainly through Long Beach Transit bus routes that connect to downtown Long Beach and regional transit hubs, where riders can access the Metro A Line (Blue) light rail. Many residents rely on cars for daily commuting, though biking is feasible for shorter, local trips due to relatively flat terrain and ongoing city efforts to improve bike infrastructure.

What amenities, parks, and services are available in North Long Beach?

North Long Beach provides access to everyday conveniences such as grocery stores, neighborhood markets, restaurants, and local service businesses along commercial corridors like Atlantic Avenue and Long Beach Boulevard. The area is home to several parks and recreational facilities, including Houghton Park, which offers sports fields, playgrounds, a community center, and programming for youth and seniors. Residents also benefit from public libraries, health clinics, and city services within a short driving distance. Larger retail centers, specialty shops, and entertainment options are available in nearby parts of Long Beach and surrounding cities, making it relatively easy to meet most lifestyle needs without long trips.

What should I know about schools and community life in North Long Beach?

North Long Beach is served by the Long Beach Unified School District, which includes a range of elementary, middle, and high schools in and around the neighborhood. School performance can vary by campus, so families often review school ratings, specialized programs, and magnet options across the district when deciding where to live. Community life is shaped by a diverse population with strong local roots, community organizations, and neighborhood groups that host events, cleanups, and cultural activities. Residents will find a mix of long-established families and newer arrivals, with opportunities to get involved through local parks, community centers, and city-sponsored programs that focus on youth engagement, public safety, and neighborhood improvement.

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