Long Beach, California
With more than five miles of coastline, a superb aquarium and more than 345 days of sunshine annually, Long Beach, California has become a popular destination for those looking to relocate. Nestled along the coastline, in beautiful Sothern California, Long Beach ranks as the fifth largest city in state. A west coast paradise, those moving to Long Beach will discover a setting for economic prosperity while encouraging residents to maintain a stress-free lifestyle.
History:
The Tongva people occupied the area until the Spanish claimed the area in 1542. In 1784, the King of Spain gave 300,000 acres of land to soldier Manuel Nieto. In 1843, this same piece of land of land was sold to John Temple of Massachusetts. Temple shaped a thriving cattle ranch from the land, and Long Beach began making a fortune selling meat to gold miners in the North. Later, sheep ranching became popular as the cattle industry began to experience a downturn. In 1870s the city of Long Beach was formed. In 1888, the city was officially incorporated; named for its long, wide beaches. During the early part of the 20th century, Long Beach became well known as a seaside resort, soon becoming home to “The Pike,” one of the west coast's most celebrated beachside amusement parks. At the same time, the Navy moved to town, the oil industry grew and the port flourished. Before long, the city had become the hub of the early silent film industry. Later, Long Beach would become home to Balboa Amusement Producing Company.
Economy:
Ranked the second busiest port in the country and tenth busiest in the world, the Port of Long Beach continues to benefit the local economy. In recent years, high technology has played an important role in the local economy. Major technology and aerospace corporations such as Raytheon and Gulfstream have large facilities in the city, and Boeing continues to be Long Beach’s largest employer. Other large city employers include the Long Beach Unified School District, Boeing, the City of Long Beach and Long Beach Memorial Medical Center. Manufactures include aircraft, automobile parts, electronic and audiovisual equipment and home furnishings. The city also has a large oil industry. Long Beach’s top commercial businesses include Gulfstream Aerospace, Boeing, Verizon and the Bragg Companies. Tourism has played a major part of the Long Beach’s economy since its early development. Today, the city attracts more than five million visitors annually.
Tourism:
In Long Beach, the great outdoors is right at your doorstep. Jet skis, kayaks, boats, wind surfboards and more are all just a rental away. Once you dry off, catch a musical at the waterside Long Beach Performing Arts Center, home to the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra and the Long Beach Opera. Next, enjoy ocean views atop the Long Beach Museum of Art, housed in a historic Craftsman mansion and featuring a celebrated museum café and gift shop. For the golf pro, head over to the Trump National Golf Club. One of the country’s finest golf courses, Trump National offers world-renowned restaurants, unmatched service, exclusive amenities and some of the most spectacular panoramic Pacific Ocean views. Long Beach after dark is a city like no other. Filled with salsa, jazz, classic rock n’ roll and some of the leading sounds on the alternative scene, there is something for every taste.
Colleges/Universities:
California State University - Long Beach
Long Beach City College
Brooks College
Compton Community College
Los Angeles Harbor College
Interesting Facts:
• The Queen Mary has been docked in Long Beach Harbor since 1967.
• In 1947, Howard Hughes' Spruce Goose, the world's largest airplane, made its one and only flight in Long Beach Harbor.
• The Port of Long Beach is one of the world's largest shipping ports.
Helpful Links:
• Long Beach Real Estate
• Long Beach Storage Facility
• Long Beach Insurance
• Long Beach Box Companies
• Long Beach Moving Companies