Belmont Shore: Pros & Cons

Belmont Shore is a beautiful and highly sought-after Long Beach neighborhood. As a Long Beach local, I can vouch for the many benefits of the beachfront living this community offers. As your Long Beach city guide, I will cover some of the pros and cons of living here, including quality of life, local attractions, housing, and cost of living.

Belmont Shore is situated right on the Pacific Ocean, offering residents breathtaking views and easy access to the beach. However, it’s important to note that this proximity to the ocean can be a double-edged sword. While the ocean views are undoubtedly a major advantage, the area’s prime location can also lead to some drawbacks.

Traffic and Freeway Access

One of the downsides of living in Belmont Shore is the issue of freeway access. The closest freeway, the 405, is not easily accessible from the neighborhood. The main street, 7th Street, is the primary route to reach the freeway, but it can often be congested with traffic. This can be frustrating for residents who need to commute or travel frequently. However, with a little patience and some entertainment like an audiobook, the commute can be made more bearable.

Housing in Belmont Shore

Belmont Shore primarily consists of single-family residences, with some condos available as well. The typical lot size in this neighborhood is around 2,500 to 3,000 square feet so don’t expect a backyard. Due to the limited space, homes in Belmont Shore are often built up rather than out, maximizing the number of homes near the water. This means that residents live in close proximity to their neighbors.

Second Street: The Heart of Belmont Shore

One of the defining features of Belmont Shore is Second Street, the main dining and shopping street in Long Beach. Second Street cuts right through Belmont Shore, bringing with it a bustling atmosphere, but also plenty of foot and car traffic. While this is great for those who enjoy the vibrant energy of a lively street, it can pose challenges when it comes to finding parking, especially on weekends. If you value peace and privacy, you may want to consider other neighborhoods such as Belmont Heights or neighborhoods in East Long Beach.

Limited Availability and High Prices

Belmont Shore is a highly desirable neighborhood, and as a result, homes for sale in this area are relatively scarce. As I write this article, there are only four homes available for purchase, ranging from 1.5 million to 3.5 million dollars. This limited availability contributes to the exclusivity and high demand for properties in Belmont Shore.

If you’re considering a move to Belmont Shore, it’s important to be aware of the limited availability of homes for sale. In 2023, only 19 homes were sold in the entire year, with an average price just under $1.5 million.

Living the Beach Lifestyle

Despite its drawbacks, Belmont Shore offers a quintessential beach lifestyle that many residents cherish. With Rosie’s Dog Beach, a popular spot for dog owners, and various recreational activities like kayaking and boat riding, there is no shortage of outdoor fun to be had. Additionally, the neighborhood is home to shopping destinations like Second and PCH and Marina Pacifica, providing residents with a convenient and vibrant shopping experience.

In terms of demographics, Belmont Shore has a median age of 44, and 53% of the residents are homeowners. This indicates a stable and established community. The neighborhood’s close-knit atmosphere and beach-centric lifestyle create a sense of belonging and community among its residents.