Long Beach, California, is a thriving coastal city with over 460,000 people. The City is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse attractions. Residents can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, fishing, sailing, and windsurfing. There is also a variety of arts and culture to experience, including the Museum of Art and the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra. In addition, the City is home to several parks and gardens, making it a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The cost of living in Long Beach, California, is relatively high compared to the national average. To live comfortably in this City, you’ll need a salary above the median wage. In this article, we’ll look at what salary you need to live in Long Beach, CA.
Where Does Your Salary Go Living in Long Beach?
According to recent studies, Long Beach’s living cost is significantly higher than the national average. Housing costs account for a large portion of this discrepancy, as rent prices in the City are among the highest in the country. Food and transportation expenses are also significantly higher in Long Beach than in the rest of the country. As a result, residents of the City need to earn a higher salary to maintain their standard of living. However, there are some areas where Long Beach is cheaper than other cities. For example, utilities, childcare, and healthcare costs are relatively low compared to other expensive cities. Overall, though, future residents of Long Beach need to be prepared to budget carefully to make ends meet.
Long Beach is a bustling city located on the coast of Southern California. The City is home to a diverse population and a thriving economy, making it an attractive option for purchasing real estate. Long Beach offers a wide variety of housing options, from beachfront apartments to suburban homes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy bungalow near the beach or a luxurious penthouse downtown, you’ll find it in Long Beach. The cost of real estate in Long Beach varies depending on the location and type of property.
Some of the best neighborhoods in Long Beach for families include Alamitos Heights, Bixby Knolls, and Los Altos. These areas offer various housing options and are close to schools, parks, and other amenities. Families can also find affordable homes in Long Beach by looking in the Northtown area or near California State University, Long Beach. For those looking for a more luxurious lifestyle, neighborhoods such as Belmont Shore and Naples offer upscale homes and apartments. Residents of these areas can enjoy beautiful views of the ocean and easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Median 1 Bedroom Apartment Rent: $3,037/ month
Median 2 Bedroom Apartment Rent: $4,534/month
Median 3 Bedroom Apartment Rent: $4,789/month
Median Home Price: $828,115
Cost of Transportation
Long Beach offers a variety of transportation options for residents and visitors. Gasoline expenses are 31 percent higher than the national average. One gallon of gas costs $4.89 in Long Beach. The City is served by the Long Beach Transit, which operates a network of buses and shuttles. The Los Angeles Metro also provides service to Long Beach, with two light rail lines and one bus line. In addition, the City has several taxi and rideshare services.
The cost of transportation in Long Beach varies depending on the mode of transport. Bus fares start at $1.25, and light rail fares start at $1.75. Taxi and rideshare rates vary depending on the company, but prices are typically around $2 per mile.
Long Beach is also a bicycle-friendly city, with over 200 miles of bike lanes. In recent years, the City has also been investing in electric scooters, which are now available for rent throughout the City. As a result, there are several ways to get around Long Beach, whether you’re looking for a quick and easy way to get around town or you want to explore the City at your own pace.
Long Beach taxes are some of the highest in the state of California. The City’s sales tax rate is 10.25%, while the state’s sales tax rate is only 8.25% (County + City Sales tax). In addition, Long Beach has a property tax rate of 1.25%, which is higher than the average property tax rate in California of 0.72%. The income tax rate of 9.3% in Long Beach is one of the highest in California. As a result, Long Beach is a costly place to live. However, there are some exemptions from Long Beach taxes, such as for senior citizens and disabled veterans.
Taxes are vital for any city’s operations and infrastructure, but they can be a burden for residents. Long Beach residents need to be aware of the City’s high taxes to budget accordingly.
Utilities in Long Beach
As one of the largest cities in Los Angeles County, Long Beach is a central hub for business and industry. As a result, the demand for utilities is high. Utility costs are 8% higher than the national average. You can expect to pay $132.21/month for utilities.
There are several electricity providers in Long Beach and several gases and water companies. The City also has its municipal utility provider, Long Beach Gas & Electric. This company provides electricity, gas, and water services to the City. In addition, it offers a variety of other services, including recycling and waste management.
Long Beach residents have access to a variety of healthcare options. The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services provides many services, including immunizations, family planning, and dental care.
There are also numerous hospitals and clinics in the area, including the Long Beach Memorial Medical Center and the Miller Children’s Hospital. In addition, several community health centers provide care for the uninsured or underinsured. As a result, residents of Long Beach have access to quality healthcare.
A routine doctor’s visit: $121.67
Dentist: $104.53
Veterinary: $54.97
Childcare Costs
Childcare is a vital service for families with young children. The cost of childcare varies depending on the type of care you’re looking for. Long Beach offers a variety of childcare options, including daycares, preschools, and after-school programs.
Childcare is a significant expense for families, but it is necessary to allow parents to work. Several resources are available to help families afford childcare, including government assistance and subsidies.
Infant care for 2 children and 1 younger: $1,406/month or $16,866/year.
Child care for preschoolers: $1,000/month, or $11,999/year.
Long Beach residents are all too familiar with the high cost of living in the City. From rent to transportation, the expenses can quickly add up. However, one of the highest costs is food. Long Beach residents spend an average of $4,153 per year on groceries, nearly 12% higher than the national average. The high cost of food is due to various factors, including the City’s location and the cost of doing business in California. In addition, Long Beach has a large population of immigrants and low-income residents, who are more likely to purchase their food from corner stores and markets that charge higher prices. As a result, the high cost of food is a significant financial burden for many Long Beach residents.
A loaf of bread: $3.73
A gallon of milk: $2.17
A dozen eggs: $2.03
Miscellaneous Costs in Long Beach
When living in Long Beach, many costs can add up over time. Dining out, going to the movies, and even joining a gym can take a toll on your budget if you’re not careful. However, there are ways to save money on these activities. For example, dining out doesn’t have to be expensive. There are plenty of affordable restaurants in Long Beach that offer great food at a fraction of the price. When it comes to entertainment, there are also ways to save. There are several free concerts or recreational activities that may keep you entertained. And finally, when it comes to fitness, there are plenty of parks and trails in Long Beach that you can explore for free. By being mindful of your spending, you can easily save money on miscellaneous costs.
• A meal at a mid-range restaurant: $66.5 for 2 People
• McMeal at McDonald’s (or Equivalent Combo Meal): $9.85
Long Beach is a city located in southern California, on the Pacific coast. The City is home to various industries, including education and manufacturing. In recent years, the City’s economy has been growing steadily, increasing jobs in the healthcare and technology sectors. As a result, the City has a strong job market with opportunities for residents of all backgrounds and skillsets.
Long Beach is also home to several major corporations, including:
Boeing
UTi Worldwide
Molina Healthcare
City of Long Beach
California State University, Long Beach
Alecto Healthcare Services
Pioneer Electronics
Long Beach Transit
IRWIN Industries
As a result of the City’s strong job market and diverse economy, Long Beach is an ideal place to live and work.
How Much Should You Earn to Live Comfortably Well In Long Beach?
Ultimately, the amount of money you need to live comfortably in Long Beach depends on your lifestyle and personal preferences. If you want to live comfortably in Long Beach, you should aim to earn a salary of at least $63,880 per year. This salary will allow you to afford a modest lifestyle, including reasonable housing payments, food, transportation, and other essential expenses. However, if you want to live a more luxurious lifestyle in Long Beach, you will need to earn a higher salary. For example, if you want to live in a nicer home or dine out regularly, you should aim to earn $77,000 or more per year.
According to the US Department of Labor, a single person living without dependents must earn $21.62 per Hour to live comfortably in Long Beach. If only one adult is employed, the required hourly compensation for two adults with one child is $40.69. The cost of living for two parents with two children is $30.60 if they’re both working.
Conclusion
Long Beach is a great place to live, work, and raise a family. The City’s strong job market and diverse economy provide residents with plenty of opportunities. Long Beach, California, has a very high cost of living, but it is still worth it, considering what the City offers. If you’re thinking of moving to Long Beach, be sure to research the job market and cost of living in advance to be prepared.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Long Beach?
The cost of living in Long Beach is high. The cost of living in Long Beach is 43% higher than the national average.
How much should you earn to live comfortably in Long Beach?
If you want to live comfortably in Long Beach, you’ll need to earn at least $63,880 per year.
Alex Sherr is the founder of My Long Distance Movers, a blog that provides moving information and resources for people who are relocating. He has more than two decades of experience in the moving and relocation industry, and he is passionate about helping people relocate smoothly and efficiently. When he's not writing or blogging, Alex enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children.
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