How to Find Affordable Housing in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is a vibrant coastal city known for its diverse culture, thriving arts scene, and scenic waterfront. However, like many urban areas in Southern California, it faces a severe housing affordability crisis. Rising rents, limited inventory, and high demand have made finding affordable housing in Long Beach increasingly challenging—especially for low- and middle-income families, students, seniors, and essential workers. Yet, affordable housing is not impossible to find. With the right strategy, resources, and persistence, individuals and families can secure safe, stable, and budget-friendly homes in this dynamic city.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to help you navigate the complexities of Long Beach’s housing market. Whether you’re new to the area or have been searching for months, this tutorial will equip you with actionable insights, proven tools, real-world examples, and expert best practices to increase your chances of finding affordable housing without compromising on safety or quality.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Understand What “Affordable” Means in Long Beach

Before you begin your search, define what “affordable” means for your household. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) defines affordable housing as costing no more than 30% of a household’s gross monthly income. In Long Beach, median rent for a one-bedroom apartment exceeds $2,200, and a two-bedroom averages over $2,800 as of 2024. This means a household needs to earn at least $88,000 annually to afford a one-bedroom at market rate.

For those earning below this threshold—especially those making under $60,000—affordable housing typically refers to units subsidized by government programs, non-profits, or income-restricted developments. These units may be available through:

• Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
• Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties
• Public housing managed by the Long Beach Housing Authority
• Non-profit or faith-based housing initiatives

Start by calculating your monthly income and determining your maximum rent budget. Use this figure as your filter when browsing listings. If your budget is below $1,500, you’ll need to focus on subsidized or income-restricted options rather than the open market.

Step 2: Check Eligibility for Income-Restricted Programs

Most affordable housing in Long Beach is tied to income limits based on Area Median Income (AMI). These limits are updated annually by HUD and vary by household size. For example, in 2024, a single individual earning up to $54,000 (80% of AMI) may qualify for certain affordable units, while those earning under $33,750 (50% of AMI) may qualify for deeper subsidies.

Visit the Long Beach Housing Authority (LBHA) website to review current income limits and program guidelines. Common programs include:

• Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8): Provides rental assistance to eligible families, allowing them to choose private-market units. Waitlists are often long, so apply early.
• Public Housing: Directly managed by LBHA; units are available in designated complexes across the city.
• Project-Based Vouchers: Rent subsidies are tied to specific buildings, not individuals. If you move, you lose the subsidy unless you transfer it.

Eligibility also considers factors like citizenship status, criminal history, and prior rental behavior. Be prepared to provide documentation such as pay stubs, tax returns, Social Security statements, or proof of unemployment. Even if you think you might not qualify, apply—many programs have flexible criteria or reserve units for special populations like veterans, the disabled, or survivors of domestic violence.

Step 3: Register for Waitlists Early

One of the biggest mistakes people make is waiting until they’re desperate to apply. Affordable housing waitlists in Long Beach can remain open for months—or close entirely for years—due to overwhelming demand. The LBHA waitlist for Section 8 has been closed since 2021 and may not reopen until 2026. However, other programs and non-profit developers maintain active waitlists.

Register with the following entities immediately:

• Long Beach Housing Authority: Check their website weekly for waitlist openings. Sign up for email alerts.
• Long Beach Community Housing Corporation (LBCHC): Manages over 1,500 affordable units across the city. They regularly open applications for new developments.
• Los Angeles County Housing Authority: Though based in LA, it serves some Long Beach residents, especially near the county border.
• Non-profits like Habitat for Humanity and Mercy Housing: Offer homeownership and rental opportunities with income restrictions.

When a waitlist opens, apply immediately. Many applications are submitted online and require detailed personal and financial information. Have your documents ready: government ID, proof of income, Social Security numbers for all household members, and references. Avoid submitting incomplete forms—these are often rejected outright.

Step 4: Explore Income-Restricted Apartment Communities

Many apartment complexes in Long Beach are built or renovated with federal or state subsidies, meaning they must rent to households within specific income brackets. These are not “low-income housing” in the stigmatized sense—they are modern, well-maintained buildings with amenities like on-site laundry, security, parking, and sometimes even childcare or job training services.

Search for properties with these indicators:

• “Income-Restricted” or “Affordable Housing” in the listing title
• References to LIHTC, HOME, or CDBG funding
• Management companies like Mercy Housing, Aeon, or Pacifica Communities

Popular income-restricted developments in Long Beach include:

• Westside Village: A mixed-income community near the Pike Outlets with units for households earning 30–80% AMI.
• Seventh Street Apartments: Managed by LBCHC, this property offers one- and two-bedroom units with rent based on income.
• La Cienega Apartments: A recently renovated complex offering affordable units to seniors and families.

Visit the Long Beach Affordable Housing Resource Directory (available on the city’s official website) to view a full, searchable list of income-restricted properties with current availability, application deadlines, and contact details.

Step 5: Utilize Housing Search Platforms Designed for Affordable Units

Standard rental platforms like Zillow, Apartments.com, or Craigslist are not ideal for finding subsidized housing—they rarely distinguish between market-rate and income-restricted units. Instead, use specialized tools:

• HotPads (Affordable Housing Filter): Allows users to filter by “Income-Restricted” and “Section 8 Accepted.”
• HUD’s Housing Choice Voucher Portal: Lists properties in Long Beach that accept vouchers.
• California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) Rental Listings: Features LIHTC properties statewide, searchable by city.
• Long Beach City Government’s Housing Portal: Offers a curated list of affordable rentals with direct links to applications.
• Apartment List (Affordable Filter): Includes a “Below Market Rate” toggle for Southern California.

Set up email alerts on these platforms with your criteria: bedroom count, income range, preferred neighborhood, and move-in date. Check daily—new listings appear frequently, and units in affordable complexes are often rented within 24–48 hours.

Step 6: Network with Local Organizations and Advocates

Community organizations in Long Beach often have early access to housing opportunities before they’re publicly listed. These groups also provide guidance, application assistance, and sometimes even emergency housing referrals.

Connect with:

• Long Beach Community Action Partnership (LBCAP): Offers housing counseling, eviction prevention, and referrals to affordable units.
• Long Beach Coalition for Housing Justice: Advocates for tenant rights and shares updates on new affordable developments.
• United Way of Greater Los Angeles – Housing Navigator: Provides personalized assistance matching applicants with housing programs.
• Local churches and nonprofits: Many operate housing programs or have bulletin boards with available units.

Attend community meetings, housing fairs, or town halls hosted by the city. These events often feature housing developers, case workers, and program managers who can answer questions and provide application tips. Bring a notebook and ask for business cards or follow-up contacts.

Step 7: Consider Shared Housing and Roommate Arrangements

If you’re struggling to find a one-bedroom unit within your budget, consider shared housing. Many affordable developments allow multiple tenants per unit, and private homeowners in Long Beach often rent out spare rooms to help cover mortgage costs.

Look for:

• Roommate matching services like Roomies.com or Facebook Groups: “Long Beach Roommates & Housing”
• Co-living spaces such as Common Long Beach (offering private bedrooms with shared kitchens and living areas)
• House shares advertised by local colleges or universities for staff or graduate students

Shared housing can reduce your rent by 40–60%. For example, a $2,200 two-bedroom might be split between two people, bringing your share to $1,100—well within affordable range. Always conduct background checks, meet potential roommates in person, and sign a written roommate agreement outlining responsibilities, rent due dates, and guest policies.

Step 8: Explore Rent Control and Tenant Protections

Long Beach has one of the strongest rent control ordinances in Southern California. The city’s Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) applies to buildings constructed before October 1, 1978, and limits annual rent increases to a percentage tied to inflation (typically 3–5% per year).

If you’re renting in an RSO-covered unit, you’re protected from unjust evictions and excessive rent hikes. This makes long-term stability far more achievable. When viewing listings, ask the landlord: “Is this unit subject to the Rent Stabilization Ordinance?” If yes, you may pay less than market rate even if the unit isn’t officially subsidized.

Use the City of Long Beach RSO Property Search Tool to verify if a building is covered. Enter the address, and the tool will show whether rent control applies, the current rent, and the landlord’s contact information.

Step 9: Prepare for the Application Process

Applying for affordable housing is not like applying for a regular apartment. It’s more like applying for a job—rigorous, documentation-heavy, and competitive. To increase your chances:

• Organize all documents in a digital folder: pay stubs, tax returns, ID, birth certificates, proof of benefits, and references.
• Write a brief, honest personal statement explaining your housing needs, employment status, and why you’re a responsible tenant.
• Get letters of recommendation from employers, teachers, or community leaders if you lack strong rental history.
• Be ready for a credit check and background screening—some programs allow for exceptions if you can demonstrate financial responsibility.
• Apply to multiple properties simultaneously. Don’t put all your hopes on one application.

Applications are often reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. Submitting early—even days before the deadline—can make a critical difference.

Step 10: Be Patient and Persistent

Finding affordable housing in Long Beach is rarely a quick process. It can take weeks, months, or even over a year to secure a unit, especially if you’re on a waitlist. During this time, avoid desperation-driven decisions like signing leases without reading terms or moving into unsafe or illegal dwellings.

Stay organized. Keep a spreadsheet of every application you submit: property name, date applied, contact person, status, and next steps. Follow up politely every 30 days. Many applicants give up too soon. Those who persist—tracking every lead, attending every meeting, and updating their documents regularly—are the ones who succeed.

Best Practices

Practice 1: Prioritize Location Over Aesthetics

While it’s natural to want a unit with modern finishes or a view of the ocean, affordability often means compromising on aesthetics. Focus on safety, access to public transit, proximity to work or school, and neighborhood stability. A clean, secure apartment in a working-class neighborhood like North Long Beach or the Los Altos area may offer better long-term value than a flashy unit in a gentrifying zone with rapidly rising rents.

Practice 2: Avoid Scams

Scammers target housing seekers with fake listings, phishing emails, and requests for upfront deposits. Red flags include:

• Landlords who won’t meet in person
• Requests for wire transfers or gift cards before signing a lease
• Listing photos that appear on multiple websites with different addresses
• Too-good-to-be-true prices ($800 for a two-bedroom in downtown Long Beach)

Always verify the property through the city’s RSO database or by contacting the management company directly. Never send money without a signed lease and proof of ownership.

Practice 3: Build Credit and Rental History

If you have poor credit or no rental history, you may be denied even if you qualify income-wise. Take steps to improve your profile:

• Pay all bills on time—even utility and phone bills can be reported to credit bureaus.
• Ask a landlord or employer to write a character reference.
• Use services like Experian RentBureau or ClearNow to report rent payments to credit agencies.

Even small improvements can make you a more competitive applicant.

Practice 4: Leverage Employment-Based Housing Programs

Some employers in Long Beach offer housing assistance. Hospitals, schools, and government agencies often have partnerships with affordable housing providers. Ask your HR department: “Do you have a housing assistance program, relocation support, or partnerships with affordable landlords?”

For example, Long Beach Memorial Medical Center has a housing program for nurses and support staff. The Long Beach Unified School District offers housing stipends to teachers in high-need areas.

Practice 5: Apply for Additional Financial Assistance

Affordable rent doesn’t always mean you can afford utilities, security deposits, or moving costs. Seek supplemental aid:

• Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP): Provides one-time payments to cover rent arrears or security deposits.
• CalFresh (SNAP): Food assistance frees up income for housing.
• WIC and Medi-Cal: Reduce out-of-pocket health expenses.
• Local charities: Organizations like the Salvation Army or Catholic Charities may offer moving grants.

Combine multiple forms of aid to stretch your budget further.

Practice 6: Stay Informed on New Developments

Long Beach is investing heavily in affordable housing. Over 3,000 new affordable units are planned or under construction through 2027. Subscribe to the City of Long Beach Planning Department newsletter and follow @LongBeachHousing on social media for updates on groundbreaking ceremonies, open houses, and application announcements.

New developments often have priority for local residents, so if you’ve lived in Long Beach for years, you may have an advantage.

Tools and Resources

Official City Resources

• Long Beach Housing Authority (LBHA): https://www.longbeach.gov/housing – Manage Section 8, public housing, and waitlists.
• Long Beach Affordable Housing Resource Directory: https://www.longbeach.gov/housing/affordable-housing-directory – Searchable database of income-restricted properties.
• Long Beach Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO) Portal: https://www.longbeach.gov/rsopropertysearch – Verify if a property is rent-controlled.
• City of Long Beach Housing and Community Development: https://www.longbeach.gov/hcd – Information on grants, programs, and policy updates.

State and National Platforms

• California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA): https://www.calhfa.ca.gov – Search LIHTC properties and down payment assistance.
• HUD’s Housing Choice Voucher Search: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/programs/hcv – Find landlords accepting vouchers in Long Beach.
• 211 California: https://www.211california.org – Dial 2-1-1 or visit online for housing referrals and crisis support.
• Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP): Available through local non-profits for those at risk of eviction.

Community and Non-Profit Organizations

• Long Beach Community Housing Corporation (LBCHC): https://www.lbchc.org – Manages over 1,500 affordable units; offers application support.
• Long Beach Community Action Partnership (LBCAP): https://www.lbcap.org – Housing counseling, eviction prevention, and financial coaching.
• Mercy Housing California: https://www.mercyhousing.org – Develops and manages affordable and supportive housing.
• Habitat for Humanity Greater Los Angeles: https://www.habitatla.org – Offers homeownership opportunities for qualifying families.
• Long Beach Coalition for Housing Justice: https://www.lbhousingjustice.org – Advocacy group with updates on new developments and tenant rights workshops.

Online Tools and Apps

• HotPads (Affordable Filter): https://www.hotpads.com – Filter by “Income-Restricted” and “Section 8 Accepted.”
• Apartment List (Affordable Filter): https://www.apartmentlist.com – Use the “Below Market Rate” toggle.
• Roomies.com: https://www.roomies.com – Find roommates and shared housing.
• Google Alerts: Set alerts for “Long Beach affordable housing,” “LBCHC application,” or “Section 8 waitlist open.”

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria, Single Mother of Two

Maria, a 32-year-old home health aide earning $48,000 annually, was struggling to find housing for her family of three in Long Beach. Market-rate apartments were out of reach. She applied for the Long Beach Housing Authority’s Section 8 waitlist in 2022 and was placed on the list. After 14 months, she received a voucher.

She used her voucher to rent a two-bedroom unit in a LIHTC property managed by Mercy Housing in the Los Altos neighborhood. Her rent was capped at 30% of her income ($1,200/month), while the voucher covered the remaining $900. She also received a one-time $1,500 move-in grant from LBCAP to cover her security deposit and first month’s rent.

Today, Maria’s children attend a nearby public school, and she has access to on-site parenting workshops and after-school programs offered by the property management.

Example 2: James, Retired Veteran

James, a 68-year-old veteran living on Social Security and a small pension, needed a safe, accessible apartment. He applied to the Long Beach Housing Authority’s senior housing program and was approved for a one-bedroom unit at La Cienega Apartments. His rent is $650/month, subsidized by HUD’s Section 202 program for elderly individuals.

He receives weekly meals, transportation to medical appointments, and social activities through the building’s community center. James says, “I didn’t know these programs existed until I went to a housing fair at the library. I’m so glad I didn’t give up.”

Example 3: Aisha and Malik, New Graduates

Aisha and Malik, both 24, recently graduated from California State University, Long Beach. They earned $3,200 and $3,500 monthly respectively—too high for subsidized housing but too low for market rents. They found a room in a four-bedroom house in North Long Beach through the “Long Beach Roommates & Housing” Facebook group.

Their rent is $950 each, utilities included. The landlord is a retired teacher who rents out spare rooms to young professionals. They signed a written agreement, paid a $500 deposit, and now share chores and groceries. They’ve been living there for 18 months and plan to stay until they can save for a down payment.

FAQs

How long is the waitlist for affordable housing in Long Beach?

Wait times vary. The Section 8 waitlist has been closed since 2021 and may not reopen for several years. Other programs, like those run by LBCHC or Mercy Housing, may have wait times of 6–24 months. Applying to multiple programs increases your chances.

Can I apply for affordable housing if I have bad credit?

Yes. Many affordable housing programs prioritize income over credit score. If you have a low credit score, provide a letter explaining your situation and demonstrate consistent income. Some landlords may require a co-signer or higher deposit.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to qualify?

No. Legal permanent residents, refugees, and certain visa holders may qualify for affordable housing. However, undocumented individuals are generally ineligible for government-subsidized programs. Some non-profits offer housing assistance regardless of immigration status.

Can I apply if I’m currently homeless?

Yes. Many programs prioritize individuals experiencing homelessness. Contact LBCAP or the Long Beach Coalition for Housing Justice for emergency referrals and rapid rehousing support.

What if I get approved but can’t afford the deposit?

Many programs offer deposit assistance through emergency funds or partnerships with local nonprofits. Ask your housing counselor about available grants or payment plans.

Are pets allowed in affordable housing?

Policies vary. Many income-restricted properties allow pets with restrictions (size, breed, number). Some require a pet deposit or fee. Always confirm pet policies before applying.

Can I transfer my Section 8 voucher to Long Beach from another city?

Yes. The Housing Choice Voucher program allows portability. Contact your current housing authority to initiate a transfer to Long Beach Housing Authority. You’ll need to complete additional paperwork and meet local eligibility requirements.

Is there help for seniors or people with disabilities?

Yes. Long Beach has dedicated senior housing and accessible units. Programs like Section 202 and Section 811 provide subsidies specifically for elderly and disabled residents. Contact LBHA or Mercy Housing for specialized listings.

Conclusion

Finding affordable housing in Long Beach is not easy—but it is possible. The path requires patience, preparation, and persistence. By understanding income eligibility, registering for waitlists early, using specialized search tools, and leveraging community resources, you can secure a stable, safe, and affordable home—even in one of California’s most competitive housing markets.

The city is actively investing in new affordable units, expanding tenant protections, and supporting residents through nonprofit partnerships. Your success depends not just on finding a unit, but on knowing where to look, when to apply, and how to advocate for yourself.

Start today. Check the Long Beach Housing Authority website. Download the affordable housing directory. Call LBCAP for guidance. Apply to one program. Set up an alert. Take one step.

Every applicant who succeeds started with the same question: “How can I find affordable housing in Long Beach?” Now you have the answers. Use them. You deserve a place to call home.