Long Beach, California Short-Term Rental Market Overview
Visitor Profile
Long Beach, California, attracts a diverse array of visitors, with the typical ‘visitor avatars’ including beach lovers, families, culture enthusiasts, and ocean explorers. Beach enthusiasts are drawn to the 11 miles of sandy shoreline and water activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing at spots like Rainbow Marina. Families seek engaging experiences like exploring the Aquarium of the Pacific—Southern California’s largest aquarium—and visiting family-friendly attractions along the coast. Culture seekers are often interested in the city’s vibrant arts scene, festivals, and historical landmarks like the Queen Mary. For many, the appeal lies in the city’s combination of scenic beaches, dynamic cultural events, and iconic attractions, making Long Beach a versatile destination that caters to sun-seekers, adventure lovers, and those craving cultural enrichment. To learn more about the city’s offerings, visit the Visit Long Beach official tourism website, the premier resource for planning an unforgettable trip.
Top Attractions
Long Beach, California, is renowned for its vibrant attractions that beautifully showcase Southern California living. Visitors are drawn to iconic sites such as the Aquarium of the Pacific and the historic Queen Mary ocean liner, which offer engaging experiences and picturesque views. The downtown waterfront area, overlooking Queensway Bay, is a lively hub packed with entertainment, museums, and cultural sites that cater to diverse interests. From whale watching and kayaking to relaxing on Junipero Beach, the city provides a blend of outdoor adventure and urban sophistication.
In addition to its natural beauty and entertainment options, Long Beach hosts lively events like the Pride Parade and festival, making it a dynamic destination year-round. The city’s beaches, marinas, and the bustling Shoreline Village make it perfect for leisure and recreation. Whether exploring the maritime history, enjoying the local cuisine, or taking part in seasonal festivities, Long Beach promises an enticing mix of attractions that ensure every visit is memorable.
Regulations
Navigating the short-term rental (STR) landscape in Long Beach, California, requires hosts to understand a comprehensive set of regulations designed to balance neighborhood integrity with the benefits of home-sharing. The city’s framework mandates proper registration, adherence to primary residence requirements, and compliance with zoning restrictions, alongside occupancy and safety standards. These rules are actively enforced to ensure responsible hosting that respects community welfare while allowing for legitimate short-term rental operations.
Key Regulatory Considerations:
– Licensing and Permits: Hosts must register their STR with the City of Long Beach’s Planning Bureau. This involves submitting an application demonstrating compliance with local ordinances and paying associated fees. Registrations typically have renewal requirements to maintain good standing.
– Primary Residence Requirements: Long Beach regulations generally require that the short-term rental property be the host’s primary residence. This means the owner must live in the home for the majority of the year. There are often restrictions on the number of days the property can be rented out while the host is not present.
– Zoning and Location: STRs are permitted primarily in residential zones but are subject to specific zoning codes. Certain neighborhoods may have stricter limitations or outright prohibitions based on the local zoning ordinances to preserve community character.
– Occupancy, Health & Safety: The city enforces occupancy limits calculated by the number of bedrooms and square footage. Hosts must ensure their properties meet health and safety standards, including smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and accessible fire extinguishers.
– Tax Obligations: Hosts are required to collect and remit transient occupancy taxes (TOT) to the city, reflecting the temporary nature of the stay. Proper compliance with tax registration and payment deadlines is essential.
– Operational Standards & Enforcement: Advertising must accurately reflect the registered STR. Noise and nuisance complaints are taken seriously, with penalties ranging from fines to revocation of the rental permit. The city actively monitors compliance through neighborhood reports and inspections.
For the most current and legally binding information, property owners should consult the City of Long Beach’s Official Short-Term Rental Regulations Page, which outlines the full ordinance, registration procedures, and contact details for local authorities. This resource ensures hosts remain informed and compliant with evolving city requirements.
Long Beach, California Market Performance Trends
Long Beach, California Rental Market Insights
10-Year Market Growth
Booking Activity
- 1-3 Months:59.4% Booked
- 4-6 Months:57.3% Booked
- 7-9 Months:49.6% Booked
- 10-12 Months:20.8% Booked
Cancellation Policies
- Flexible:25.4%
- Moderate:37.9%
- Strict:35.3%
- Super Strict:35.3%
- N/A:1.1%
Minimum Stay
- 1 Day:300
- 2 Days:361
- 3 Days:160
- 4-6 Days:69
- 7-29 Days:33
- 30+ Days:390
