What Can $1 Million Buy in Long Beach?

Long Beach has long offered residents the appeal of coastal living with convenient access to Los Angeles and other Southern California communities. While home prices have risen substantially, buyers can still find attractive properties in established, tree-lined neighborhoods. Today, however, shoppers seeking a move-in-ready home may find themselves budgeting close to $1 million.

So, what does that price actually buy in Long Beach?

A look at several neighborhoods reveals just how much – and how little – the same budget can provide depending on location, lot size and condition.

Downtown: Views and High-Rise Living

Downtown Long Beach offers a distinctly urban lifestyle, with high-rise residences along Ocean Boulevard and nearby streets such as Third Street and Broadway. For buyers interested in condominium living, $1 million can provide access to some impressive properties.

At the International Towers, for example, a two-bedroom condominium priced just under $1 million featured a wraparound balcony with approximately 180-degree views of the harbor. The property sold relatively quickly, illustrating the appeal of combining waterfront views with downtown convenience.

Bixby Knolls: More Space, More Potential

In Bixby Knolls, the same budget can buy substantially more space.

One three-bedroom, two-bathroom home I found east of Atlantic Avenue offered approximately 1,600 square feet of living space on a lot exceeding 8,000 square feet. The large, paved driveway could accommodate both an RV and a boat, making the property particularly appealing to buyers who need additional parking.

Listed just under $1 million, the home would require updates, but it did not appear to need a major renovation. The open-concept kitchen includes a walk-in pantry, while the adjoining family area features a brick fireplace. Existing flooring also means buyers could postpone that expense while tackling other improvements.

The trade-off is clear: Buyers get location and lot size but must be willing to invest in updates over time.

Lakewood Village: Turnkey Appeal

For buyers who prefer a move-in-ready property, Lakewood Village presents another option.

A three-bedroom, two-bathroom home listed for approximately $950,000 offered new flooring, an updated kitchen with quartz countertops and ample cabinetry. The bathrooms feature a coordinated marble-inspired design.

Although the home lacks a fireplace and walk-in pantry, it compensates with a large bay window, a two-car garage and a lot measuring approximately 7,681 square feet. The property also offers enough space for an RV or boat and sits on a sizable corner lot.

Unlike the Bixby Knolls property, this home requires little immediate work – an important consideration for buyers who want to move in without taking on a renovation project.

Wrigley: Character and Convenience

In Wrigley, a three-bedroom, two-bathroom ranch-style home offers another interpretation of the $1 million price range.

The property sits on a smaller, approximately 4,956-square-foot lot but makes good use of its outdoor space, with alley access that can accommodate an RV or boat. Inside, the partially remodeled home features new flooring, an updated kitchen, a fireplace and ample cabinet storage.

Its tree-lined street and proximity to a major shopping center add to its appeal.

The Bottom Line

These properties demonstrate that $1 million can buy very different lifestyles in Long Beach. Downtown offers views and urban convenience; Bixby Knolls provides space and renovation potential; Lakewood Village offers turnkey living; and Wrigley combines character with accessibility.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to priorities. Do you value location, lot size, views, move-in readiness – or the opportunity to make a home your own?

At $1 million, Long Beach buyers still have choices. The key is determining what you truly need, what you want and where you're willing to compromise.

For further information, contact Kim Nellum at (562) 755-2273 or follow her at: https://www.instagram.com/kimkansell