West Side, Long Beach,CA

If you’re considering a move to the northwest part of Long Beach, West Side is a neighborhood that beautifully blends a sense of community with easy access to city amenities. Known for its charming tree-lined streets and a diverse range of housing options, West Side offers something for everyone—whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to settle into a quieter, welcoming neighborhood. The area boasts several well-maintained parks, including MacArthur Park, which is perfect for weekend picnics, jogging, or just enjoying some fresh air. The neighborhood’s vibe is both relaxed and vibrant, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate a balance between city life and suburban comfort.

One of the standout features of West Side is its close-knit community atmosphere accompanied by convenient local attractions. The neighborhood is home to some fantastic dining options, ranging from cozy cafes to family-owned restaurants that serve up a variety of cuisines. For shoppers and those who enjoy exploring local markets, the nearby 4th Street shopping district offers eclectic boutiques, vintage shops, and farmers markets that add to the area’s charm. Additionally, the neighborhood is close to the Long Beach Airport, making travel a breeze for frequent flyers. For fitness enthusiasts, the proximity to bike paths along the waterfront and several recreational centers means staying active is simple and enjoyable.

West Side’s location offers the advantage of being just a short drive or bike ride away from Downtown Long Beach, where you can enjoy theaters, museums, and a bustling nightlife. This proximity means residents can easily take advantage of the cultural events and entertainment options without sacrificing the tranquility of their neighborhood. Whether you’re commuting to work or heading out for a weekend adventure, West Side’s accessibility makes it a very practical choice for newcomers. Overall, moving to West Side means embracing a community-oriented lifestyle with access to all the perks of urban living, making it a wonderful place to call home in Long Beach.

28% of the West Side population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 28% 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.

Exploring West Side demographics can reveal a lot about its character, pace, and overall lifestyle. West Side has a population of 24,617, 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.

West Side has a population density of 3,094, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Long Beach neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

With an average age of 39, 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.

The West Side crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In West Side, home prices come in around $564,043, 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 West Side 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 $1,533, rental rates in West Side 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.

School ratings in West Side 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 West Side 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.