Radish world. That was Long Beach years before beach-going tourists became a prominent staple of the town's economy. Originally, Long Beach was an agricultural town known for its radishes before its sandy shores. Back in the early part of the 20th century, Long Beach called itself the "Radish Capital of the World," cultivating the Long Red radish, a favorite in beer halls and bars, presumably before peanuts in bowls took over. In 1921, over 300 train loads of Long Beach's Long Reds were shipped to the north.
If you like biscuits and gravy, the scent of magnolias in the springtime, white sandy beaches, and a small town feel with plenty of city amenities included in the mix, Long Beach may be just the spot for you
Radish world. That was Long Beach years before beach-going tourists became a prominent staple of the town's economy. Originally, Long Beach was an agricultural town known for its radishes before its sandy shores. Back in the early part of the 20th century, Long Beach called itself the "Radish Capital of the World," cultivating the Long Red radish, a favorite in beer halls and bars, presumably before peanuts in bowls took over. In 1921, over 300 train loads of Long Beach's Long Reds were shipped to the north.
If you like biscuits and gravy, the scent of magnolias in the springtime, white sandy beaches, and a small town feel with plenty of city amenities included in the mix, Long Beach may be just the spot for you. With a temperate climate -- no winter snow -- you can leave your mittens and boots behind when you move to Long Beach, a coastal town close to Gulfport, MS, and not that far from New Orleans or Biloxi.
Moving to Town
Convinced you want to look for rental homes in Long Beach? There are many places to live in here, and vacancies are fairly easy to come by, year 'round, although summer seasonal renters can tighten the market close to the shoreline. In general, though, your apartment search should go fairly quickly. From condo rentals to 3 bedroom apartments, check out the rentals available both online and by looking in the local paper. Leave yourself at least three weeks to a month to be sure you've taken the time to find the best spot for you. You should also walk or drive the neighborhood streets so that you find the best place in the best area for you. Bring your ID, W2s or tax returns, and credit report when you've found the place you want to lease -- many landlords require them.
Neighborhoods
With less than a 30-minute commute on average, most residents in all neighborhoods nonetheless must drive to get to their daily destination. Public transportation is scarce, so do bring or buy wheels when you move to town.
E Beach Blvd / S Cleveland Ave: This area is suburban by density and located right along the beach. Single family houses and apartments are occupied by both renters and owners, and most homes are newer, built from 2000 to the present, or no further back than 1970. Go stick your toes in the sand!
Long Beach City Center: While this is the heart of the city, it is has a laid back suburban vibe and a mix of homes and apartments occupied by both owners and renters. Homes are older here, having been built between 1940 and 1999.
Jones Mill: Suburban and with plenty of green space, the I-10 runs through an edge of this community, for convenient commuting. More property is owner occupied here, both single family and condo complexes, mostly built between 1970 and the present.
Life in Long Beach
Craving crawfish? You'll find all sorts of fine seafood here in many beachy restaurants and cafes. Music is also a strong suit in town -- local-area musicians play in bars and restaurants, and in city parks. The town is bullish on community activities too, from youth sports to community classes. The annual Wind and Wave Festival, held in May, offers carnival rides, games, food stands, and entertainment and draws both community and region wide visitors.
Fishing boats and pleasure craft abound in the community's attractive harbor, so put on your sailing shoes and get out into the Gulf of Mexico for lots of fun in the sun. Just don't forget the sunscreen.
