Long Beach, CA vs Irvine, CA: 169 vs 256

$1,803/mo ↓ 38%

Median Rent

$2,893/mo ↑ 60%

$83,969/yr ↓ 35%

Median Income

$129,647/yr ↑ 54%

$762,200 ↓ 32%

Home Value

$1,115,400 ↑ 46%

$1,890/mo ↓ 35%

Owner Costs

$2,904/mo ↑ 54%

458,491

Population

308,160

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Long Beach, CA and Irvine, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 169 and 256 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,090/month cheaper in Long Beach, saving renters about $13,080/year.

Median household income is $45,678/year higher in Irvine. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Long Beach is $762,200 compared to $1,115,400 in Irvine.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in California.

Frequently Asked Questions

Long Beach vs Irvine — common questions

Is Long Beach or Irvine cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Long Beach is cheaper to live in with an index of 169 compared to 256 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Long Beach and Irvine?

Median rent in Long Beach is $1,803/month and in Irvine it's $2,893/month — a difference of $1,090/month.

Which city has higher income, Long Beach or Irvine?

Median household income is $83,969 in Long Beach and $129,647 in Irvine. Median household income is $45,678/year higher in Irvine.

How do taxes compare between California and California?

Both cities are in California and share the same state tax rates: 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Long Beach or Irvine?

It depends on your priorities. Long Beach has a cost index of 169 with median rent of $1,803/mo, while Irvine has a cost index of 256 with rent of $2,893/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Long Beach, CA vs Irvine, CA (2026)

Long Beach

Irvine

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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