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Downtown, Long Beach,CA

Neighborhood Data
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Downtown Long Beach, nestled in the southeast part of the city, is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in a lively urban atmosphere. Whether you’re a young professional, an artist, or someone simply seeking a dynamic community, this area offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Its streets are lined with beautifully restored architecture alongside sleek new developments, creating an inviting environment where the past and present harmoniously coexist. Residents enjoy easy access to a variety of trendy cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries, making it a hub for creativity and culture.

One of the standout attractions in Downtown Long Beach is the stunning waterfront area, which features the popular Shoreline Village with its colorful shops and restaurants. This spot is perfect for weekend strolls, dining with a view, or even setting sail on a harbor cruise. Additionally, the neighborhood boasts the Aquarium of the Pacific, a must-visit for families and marine life enthusiasts, providing interactive exhibits and educational programs. For those who appreciate the arts, the area is home to the Long Beach Performing Arts Center, where you can catch concerts, theater productions, and other live performances throughout the year. This vibrant mix of entertainment options ensures there’s always something exciting happening just around the corner.

Living in Downtown Long Beach means you’re never far from the heart of the city. The neighborhood is just a stone’s throw away from the core Downtown business district, offering quick and convenient access to major employers, government offices, and cultural landmarks. Public transportation options like the Metro Blue Line make commuting across the city and beyond a breeze. With its walkable streets, abundant green spaces, and a calendar full of community events, Downtown Long Beach is an ideal place to call home for anyone seeking a lively, accessible, and fun-loving community in southern California.

Community Snapshot

Population 13,367
Density (People/sqml.) 16,292
Median Age 36.3
Married Couples
34%
34% of the population of Downtown aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
14%
14% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

About 34% of the Downtown population aged 16 and older are married, which is notably lower than average. This could suggest a community with a younger, more transient population—perhaps made up of students, professionals, or renters. It may also reflect a neighborhood that attracts singles or couples without children, contributing to a more independent, urban lifestyle.

With only 14% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Downtown neighborhood age breakdown chart

Exploring Downtown demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. Downtown has a population of 13,367, which is larger than many other Long Beach neighborhoods, creating a lively and dynamic atmosphere. Its size brings an abundance of amenities, entertainment options, and community activities, while still offering spaces to unwind and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique character.

Boasting a population density of 16,292, Downtown is more densely populated than many other Long Beach neighborhoods, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The higher concentration of residents contributes to a lively street scene, a strong sense of community, and convenient access to shops, restaurants, and urban amenities just steps from home.

With an average age of 36, you're likely to find a well-balanced community where multiple generations live side by side. This mix of age groups contributes to a neighborhood atmosphere that’s both active and welcoming, offering a blend of fresh perspectives and long-standing community values.

Crime in Downtown

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Downtown neighborhood age breakdown chart

Downtown Crime Map

The Downtown crime map offers a clear, data-driven look at how crime is distributed throughout the neighborhood, using block group data to highlight both safer areas and potential hot spots. The color-coded map makes it easy to see where crime is more concentrated and where it occurs less frequently, helping residents and prospective buyers better understand local safety patterns. It’s important to note that darker or red zones on the map don’t necessarily mean those areas are unsafe — locations near busy transit hubs, shopping districts, or popular attractions often show higher activity simply due to larger crowds and increased foot traffic.

Housing

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Home Price $532,553
Median Rent $1,890
People/Household 2.1

Home Price Breakdown

Downtown neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 72% Own 28%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 50% After 2010 50%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Downtown, home prices come in around $532,553, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Downtown can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $1,890, rental rates in Downtown are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Potholder Cafe too
Coffee Shop
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George's Greek Cafe
Coffee Shop
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Entertainment

Cinemark
Cinema
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Laugh Factory
Theatre Arts
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Food & Drink

Cold Stone Creamery
Sweets
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WaBa Grill
Fast Food
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Groceries

El Super
Grocery Store
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Vons
Grocery Store
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Parks

Playground
Playground
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Lincoln Park
Park
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Shops

H&M
Clothing
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Sunglass Hut
Optician
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Getting Around

Transit Stops

Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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Bus Stop
Bus Stop
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Transit Stations

Downtown Long Beach
Transit Station
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Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

The Children's Clinic
Clinic
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Urgent Care
Clinic
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Health Care

California Smiles
Dentist
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Doctor
Doctor
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Safety

Long Beach Fire Station #1
Fire Station
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Long Beach Police Department Headquarters
Police
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Franklin Classical Middle
540 Cerritos Ave., Long Beach, CA
Elementary School 6 - 8 School Score
Montessori On Elm
930 Elm Ave, Long Beach, CA
Elementary School PK - 4 School Score
Edison Elementary
625 Maine Ave., Long Beach, CA
Elementary School KG - 5 School Score
Renaissance High School For The Arts
1400 E. 20Th St., Long Beach, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Intellectual Virtues Academy
1637 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Clear Passage Educational Center
1471 Mlk Jr. Ave., Long Beach, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Educational Partnership High
1794 Cedar Ave., Long Beach, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Downtown combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Downtown can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $50,167
Household Income $83,421
Unemployment 6.3%

Income Breakdown

Downtown Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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Local economic factors help define the character and opportunities within a neighborhood, shaping everything from lifestyle to overall accessibility. Household incomes in Downtown average around $83,421, which is about on par with many surrounding neighborhoods. This balanced income level supports a diverse community and offers a stable, well-rounded environment for residents.

The employment landscape can reveal important details about the economic conditions of a neighborhood and the opportunities available to its residents. In Downtown, the unemployment rate is 6%, which is higher than average. This elevated rate may point to a more competitive job market or transitional economic conditions, shaping the overall character and pace of the community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the highlights?

Downtown Long Beach is known for its vibrant waterfront, including the famous Shoreline Village, which offers shopping, dining, and entertainment right on the harbor. The area also boasts the Aquarium of the Pacific, one of the largest aquariums in the country, and the historic Queen Mary ship, which is permanently docked nearby. Art lovers often visit the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) and explore the numerous public murals and galleries scattered throughout the neighborhood.

Are there any notable landmarks or historical sites?

Yes, Downtown Long Beach features several notable landmarks, such as the Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner turned hotel and event venue with a rich history dating back to the 1930s. Another historical site is the Long Beach Art Theatre, which has been a cultural fixture since the early 20th century. The area also includes the historic Pacific Electric Building and the restored Villa Riviera, a classic Mediterranean-style high-rise that adds to the district’s architectural charm.

Are there major highways or transit lines nearby?

Downtown Long Beach is well-connected, with easy access to major highways like the I-710 and the I-405, facilitating travel throughout the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Additionally, the neighborhood is served by the Long Beach Transit system and the Metro Blue Line (now known as the A Line), which provides a direct light rail connection to downtown Los Angeles. This makes commuting and exploring the greater region convenient for residents and visitors alike.

Compare Nearby Neighborhoods

Location Overall Amenities Health Transit Schools Housing Economy Crime
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