Many people are considering renting before buying a home in Long Beach.

I also recommend this approach. Experiencing the neighborhood atmosphere, commuting, and shopping before making a decision leads to fewer regrets.

As of 2026, the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is around $1,800 to $2,200 per month. Of course, this is just an "average," and prices can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood.

The most expensive areas are Belmont Shore and Naples. Being close to the beach and having a great atmosphere, rents can range from $2,200 to $2,800, and newly built or well-remodeled places can exceed $3,000. The premium for being able to walk to the beach is reflected in the prices.

Downtown Long Beach is a popular area for professionals, so you can expect rents around $1,900 to $2,400. Newer apartments are in high demand due to their amenities, but that also means higher rents.

Bixby Knolls and Los Altos, which are of particular interest to the Korean community, are relatively stable residential areas with rents typically ranging from $1,700 to $2,100. In contrast, Central Long Beach and North Long Beach are a bit cheaper, around $1,500 to $1,900, but I recommend checking the surrounding environment and safety when looking for a home.

For those living alone, studios are also popular, usually costing around $1,400 to $1,800. For families, 2-bedroom apartments are commonly found in the range of $2,400 to $3,200. Additionally, whether parking is included, if there's a washer in the unit, or if pets are allowed can lead to rent differences of $100 to $300.

Another important thing to check is California's rent control law (AB 1482). For older apartments that fall under the law, the annual rent increase is limited to the inflation rate (CPI) + 5%, with a maximum of 10%. However, buildings constructed after 2020, as well as some single-family homes or condos, may not be subject to this law, so be sure to verify before signing a lease. Even if the initial rent seems low, the increase at the next renewal could be significant.

When searching for listings, Zillow and Apartments.com are the most commonly used platforms, and occasionally good listings appear on Craigslist. Many in the Korean community also find recommendations through KakaoTalk local groups or the Korean community in the U.S. Good homes can be rented before they are publicly listed.

Finally, a crucial factor when renting in the U.S. is your credit score. A score above 700 can create a good impression on landlords and give you an advantage in competitive listings. The security deposit is also limited by California law, so be sure to review the lease terms carefully.

In my experience, living in a safe neighborhood in Long Beach, even if it's a bit more expensive, leads to much higher satisfaction. Choosing a convenient commute and a safe environment is ultimately more fulfilling than saving $200 to $300 on rent.