Real Estate Agent in Long Beach, CA

Of course. Here is a complete career guide for Real Estate Agents considering a move to Long Beach, CA.

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The Salary Picture: Where Long Beach Stands

Let’s get straight to the point: the financial reality of being a real estate agent in Long Beach is a mixed bag. You’re in a major Southern California market, but you’re not competing directly with Beverly Hills-level commissions. The median salary for a real estate agent in Long Beach sits at $64,338/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $30.93/hour. This is a solid, middle-of-the-road figure for the industry and slightly above the national average of $61,480/year.

However, this number is a median, not a starting point. It’s heavily influenced by the 10-Year Job Growth of 3%. This isn’t a booming market; it’s stable but slow-moving. With only 898 jobs in the metro, competition is real. You can’t just hang a shingle and expect a flood of clients. Success here is built on grit, local knowledge, and a strong network.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Real estate income is notoriously difficult to pin down, as most agents are 100% commission-based. The median figure is a better indicator of what a steady, full-time agent can expect after a few years. Here’s a more realistic breakdown of potential earnings potential:

Experience Level	Typical Annual Income Range (Estimate)	What to Expect
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$40,000 - $70,000	Heavy focus on lead generation, building a network, and surviving on smaller transactions. Many have a second job.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$70,000 - $120,000	Consistent client base, repeat business, and a steady stream of referrals. You're now a known entity in your niche.
Senior-Level (8-15 years)	$120,000 - $200,000+	Established brand recognition, specializing in a neighborhood or property type (e.g., waterfront condos, historic homes). Team leadership possible.
Expert/Top Producer (15+ years)	$200,000+	Market dominance in a specific niche, high-value listings, and a large, self-sustaining referral network.

Comparison to Other CA Cities

Long Beach offers a unique value proposition compared to other California markets. It provides access to the coastal lifestyle and job opportunities of LA County without the extreme price tags (though it's still expensive).

City	Median Salary	Key Characteristic
Long Beach	$64,338	Balanced market, diverse inventory, strong rental demand.
Los Angeles	~$78,000	Higher earning potential, but extreme competition and cost of living.
San Francisco	~$95,000	Ultra-high commissions, but also astronomical living costs and a volatile market.
Sacramento	~$68,000	More affordable, government-centric economy, faster-growing market.
San Diego	~$72,000	Similar coastal appeal, but slightly higher salaries and more competitive tech/biotech crossover.

Long Beach is a "grinder's market." You won't get rich overnight, but a dedicated agent can build a very comfortable living with a better work-life balance than in downtown LA.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $64,338 sounds reasonable until you factor in California's high taxes and Long Beach's housing costs. Let’s break down a monthly budget for a single agent earning the median salary.

• Gross Monthly Income: $5,361
• Estimated Taxes (Federal + State + FICA): ~$1,300/month
• Net Take-Home Pay: ~$4,061/month

Now, let's look at the rent. The average 1-bedroom apartment in Long Beach costs $2,006/month. This represents nearly 50% of your net take-home pay, which is well above the recommended 30% threshold.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Realistic Scenario):

• Net Income: $4,061
• Rent (1BR Avg): -$2,006
• Utilities/Internet: -$150
• Groceries: -$350
• Gas/Transportation: -$200
• Car Insurance: -$150
• Health Insurance (if not through a broker): -$300
• Professional Expenses (MLS, E&O, Marketing): -$200
• Remaining/Flexible Spending: $355

This budget is tight. It leaves little room for dining out, entertainment, or significant savings. Many agents in Long Beach live with roommates, opt for studios, or live in neighboring, more affordable cities like Lakewood or Cerritos to make the numbers work.

Can they afford to buy a home?
On a median salary of $64,338, buying a home in Long Beach is a significant challenge. The median home price in Long Beach is approximately $750,000. With a 20% down payment ($150,000), you’re looking at a monthly mortgage payment of over $4,000 (including taxes and insurance), which is impossible on this salary. Even with an FHA loan (3.5% down), the monthly payment would still be over $4,500. Homeownership is typically only feasible for top-producing agents or those with a dual-income household.

Insider Tip: Your first 2-3 years are about survival and building a pipeline. Don't plan on buying property here until you've consistently earned above the $100,000 mark for at least two years. Focus on building your business first.

Where the Jobs Are: Long Beach's Major Employers

Long Beach's economy is diverse and anchored by major institutions that create a constant churn of real estate activity—both residential and commercial.

1. Port of Long Beach: One of the busiest ports in the world. This isn't just about shipping; it supports thousands of jobs in logistics, engineering, and corporate management. These are well-paid professionals who need housing, from apartments to single-family homes in areas like Bixby Knolls and Los Cerritos.
2. Long Beach Memorial Medical Center & St. Mary Medical Center: The healthcare sector is a massive employer. Doctors, nurses, and medical staff are a prime demographic for first-time homebuyers and renters. Their shifts also mean they often value homes near the 405 and 710 freeways for easy access.
3. California State University, Long Beach (CSULB): With over 40,000 students and thousands of faculty/staff, CSULB drives a huge rental market. The area around the university (East Long Beach, Los Altos) is a hotspot for investment properties and multi-family units. Faculty often look for homes in quieter, established neighborhoods like the "Park Estates" area.
4. Boeing (Long Beach Site): While smaller than its heyday, Boeing still has a significant presence in Long Beach, particularly with its C-17 program and other aerospace operations. These are high-income, stable jobs that support the housing market in nearby areas like Signal Hill and Bixby Knolls.
5. Long Beach City College (LBCC): With two campuses, LBCC employs a large number of educators and staff who often seek housing within the city, contributing to the steady demand in neighborhoods like Alamitos Beach and Rose Park.
6. Tourism & Hospitality (The Queen Mary, Hotels, Restaurants): Long Beach is a major tourist destination. This creates demand for short-term rental properties (regulations apply) and housing for hospitality workers. It also means you might work with investors looking to buy condos or small multifamily properties near the downtown waterfront.

Hiring Trend Insight: The job market is stable, not explosive. The key is to identify the needs of these major employers' employees. For example, CSULB staff often look for homes with good school districts if they have families, while younger Boeing engineers might be looking for modern condos closer to downtown.

Getting Licensed in CA

California real estate licensing is a straightforward but detailed process. You must go through the Department of Real Estate (DRE).

Step-by-Step Requirements:

1. Complete 135 Hours of Pre-Licensing Education: You must take three courses at a DRE-accredited school (online or in-person):
   • Real Estate Principles (45 hours)
   • Real Estate Practice (45 hours)
   • One elective course (45 hours), such as Real Estate Finance, Appraisal, or Property Management.
2. Cost of Education: This ranges from $200 to $500, depending on the provider. Many online schools offer package deals.
3. Apply for the Exam: Once you complete your courses, you submit an application to the DRE (Form RE 435) along with a $60 exam fee. You'll also need to get fingerprinted (approx. $75).
4. Pass the State Exam: The exam is 150 multiple-choice questions, and you need a 70% to pass. It's a challenging test that requires serious study.
5. Find a Sponsoring Broker: You cannot practice alone. You must join a brokerage. Interview several! Look for a broker that offers solid training, mentorship, and a reasonable commission split (often starting 70/30 or 80/20 in your favor).
6. Activate Your License: Once you pass the exam and have a broker, you pay the licensing fee (approx. $245 for a two-year license).

Total Estimated Cost to Get Licensed: $600 - $900
Timeline: From starting classes to being an active agent can take as little as 3-4 months if you are dedicated. The biggest variable is how quickly you get an exam date from the DRE.

Insider Tip: Don't just pick the cheapest pre-licensing course. Invest in one with good reviews and test prep. The state exam is known for its tricky wording, and quality preparation is worth the extra cost.

Best Neighborhoods for Real Estate Agents

Where you live can impact your commute, networking, and ability to serve clients. Here’s a breakdown of key areas:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Lifestyle	Avg. 1BR Rent	Commute & Client Base
Downtown/Waterfront	Urban, walkable, vibrant nightlife, luxury condos. Young professionals and empty-nesters.	$2,300+	Easy access to the 710/405. Serves clients seeking a modern, car-optional lifestyle. High-rise condo specialist.
Bixby Knolls/North LB	Established, family-friendly, tree-lined streets. Great local shops on Atlantic Ave.	$1,900	A bit farther from the freeways, but a strong community feel. Perfect for agents who want to specialize in single-family homes for families.
East Long Beach (Los Altos, Los Cerritos)	Suburban, excellent public schools, spacious homes. The "American Dream" in Long Beach.	$1,850	Close to CSULB and the 605/405. Ideal for agents targeting families and academic professionals.
Alamitos Beach/Rose Park	Charming, historic bungalows and cottages. Very LGBTQ+ friendly, close to the beach.	$2,100	Centrally located. Best for agents who love character homes and a neighborhood feel. Strong rental market for the properties.
Belmont Shore/Naples	Upscale, coastal, charming canals. High property values, touristy.	$2,200+	A driving commute to the 405. Serves high-net-worth clients and investors. You must know the intricacies of coastal properties (insurance, permits).

Insider Tip: As a new agent, you don't need to live in the most expensive area. Living in a more affordable neighborhood like East Long Beach or North Long Beach gives you a lower cost of living while still being centrally located to serve most of the city.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 3% job growth means you must create your own advancement. Here’s how:

Specialty Premiums (How to Earn More):

• Luxury Waterfront Properties: Properties in Belmont Shore, Naples, and the Marina can command commissions 2-3x the median. This requires a polished network and ultra-high-touch service.
• Multi-Family Investment Properties: The 710 corridor and areas near CSULB have a strong rental market. Becoming an expert in identifying and brokering multi-unit buildings is a lucrative niche.
• Short-Sale & Foreclosure Specialist: During economic downturns, this niche becomes active. It requires patience and deep knowledge of the short-sale process with banks.
• Relocation Specialist: Partner with companies like Boeing and the Port to become their go-to agent for incoming employees.

Advancement Paths:

1. Team Leader: Join a top team, learn the ropes, and eventually build your own team, earning a percentage of your agents' production.
2. Brokerage Owner: After years of experience and meeting state requirements, you can open your own brokerage (requires 2 years of full-time experience and passing a separate exam).
3. Property Management: Many agents diversify into property management, creating a steady, recurring income stream from rental management fees.

10-Year Outlook:
The market will remain stable. The biggest opportunities will come from the ongoing shortage of single-family homes, pushing more buyers toward condos and townhomes. Agents who can master the condo market (HOAs, special assessments) and the investment property niche will thrive. The 3% growth indicates that the market isn't going to explode, but patient, knowledgeable agents who build deep local roots will do very well.

The Verdict: Is Long Beach Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Diverse Housing Stock: From historic bungalows to luxury condos, you can find a niche.	High Cost of Living: Rent and taxes will consume a large portion of a median income.
Stable, Diverse Economy: Major employers provide a consistent client base.	Slow Job Growth: 3% growth means you must be highly proactive; clients won't fall into your lap.
Desirable Lifestyle: Beach access, cultural events, and a vibrant community attract buyers.	Stiff Competition: With 898 agents in the metro, you need a clear differentiator.
Proximity to LA: Access to a massive regional market without living in downtown LA.	Traffic: The 710 and 405 freeways are notoriously congested.
Actual Affordability (Relatively): Compared to coastal LA or OC, Long Beach is a "value" play.	Regulatory Environment: California has complex real estate laws and high transaction costs.

Final Recommendation:
Long Beach is not the place for an agent looking for a get-rich-quick scheme or who is unwilling to grind. It is an excellent market for a patient, diligent, and community-focused agent who wants to build a stable, long-term career.

If you are willing to live modestly for the first few years, immerse yourself in a specific neighborhood, and build a reputation for being the local expert, you can build a fulfilling and profitable career. The path is clear, but it requires consistent effort.

FAQs

1. Can I be a part-time real estate agent in Long Beach?
Yes, but it's very difficult. The market is competitive, and clients need responsive agents. Part-time success is possible, but it typically takes longer to build momentum. You must be extremely organized and have a clear schedule for showings and client meetings.

2. How do new agents find clients in Long Beach?
The most effective methods are:

• FSBO & Expired Listing Outreach: A classic, numbers-based approach.
• Geographic Farming: Pick one neighborhood (e.g., Rose Park) and become its expert through mailers, open houses, and community events.
• Open Houses: Host open houses for other agents' listings to meet potential buyers.
• Networking with Professionals: Connect with lenders, title officers, and contractors who can refer clients.

3. Is it better to join a large national brokerage or a small local one in Long Beach?
Large brokerages (e.g., Coldwell Banker, Keller Williams) offer strong brand recognition and extensive training. Small local brokerages often provide more personalized mentorship and a tighter-knit community. For a new agent, the quality of the training and mentorship program is more important than the brand name.

4. What is the biggest challenge for agents in Long Beach?
The number one challenge is the high cost of living combined with the commission-based income. It can take 6-12 months before you see your first commission check, so having savings (at least 6 months of expenses) is critical.

5. Do I need a car?
Absolutely. While downtown is walkable, Long Beach is a sprawling city. You will be driving to showings in East Long Beach, meet clients in Bixby Knolls, and attend inspections across the city. A reliable car is a non-negotiable tool of the trade.