A Guide to Long Beach Schools: The Best Neighborhoods for Families

Moving to Long Beach and wondering which neighborhood is best for your family? As a mom with kids in elementary, middle, and high school, I know firsthand how important it is to find a great school district that fits your child’s needs. Long Beach offers a diverse selection of highly-rated public, private, and charter schools, along with family-friendly communities that make it a wonderful place to raise children. This guide will help you explore the best  neighborhoods for families based on school options and overall quality of life.

Top Neighborhoods for Families in Long Beach

1. Bixby Knolls – Strong Community & Great Schools

Best Schools Nearby:

• Longfellow Elementary School (Highly rated public school)
  
• Hughes Middle School (Strong academic programs)
  
• Polytechnic High School (One of the top high schools in Long Beach with AP and IB programs)
  

Bixby Knolls is a fantastic option for families looking for a close-knit community with top-rated
schools. The neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, local parks, and community
events like First Fridays. It also has great walkability to local shops and restaurants, making it a
great place to settle down.

2. Los Altos – Suburban Feel with Excellent Schools

Best Schools Nearby:

• Minnie Gant Elementary School (Highly rated public school)
  
• Stanford Middle School (Strong extracurricular programs)
  
• Millikan High School (Offers specialized academies and AP courses)
  

Los Altos is a top choice for families who want a quiet, suburban feel while still being close to shopping and entertainment. The schools here are consistently rated among the best in the city, and the neighborhood has plenty of parks and libraries for kids to enjoy.

3. Naples & Belmont Shore – Coastal Living with Top Schools

Best Schools Nearby:

• Naples Bayside Academy (Great elementary school with a focus on STEM)
  
• Rogers Middle School (Well-rounded curriculum and strong athletics)
  
• Wilson High School (One of the most sought-after high schools in Long Beach)
  

If you dream of coastal living while still prioritizing great schools, Naples and Belmont Shore are excellent choices. These neighborhoods offer beachside charm, waterfront activities, and top-tier schools, making them perfect for active families.

4. Lakewood Village – Spacious Homes & Family-Friendly Atmosphere

Best Schools Nearby:

• Mark Twain Elementary School (Excellent teacher-to-student ratio)
  
• Bancroft Middle School (Diverse academic and extracurricular options)
  
• Lakewood High School (Comprehensive programs for college prep and technical education)
  

Lakewood Village offers larger homes with big backyards—ideal for families who need more space. With highly-rated schools, strong community involvement, and access to shopping centers like Lakewood Mall, it’s a great place to raise kids.

5. East Long Beach – Safe & Quiet Neighborhoods with Strong Schools

Best Schools Nearby:

• Tincher Preparatory School (K-8 school with a great academic reputation)
  
• Marshall Academy of the Arts (Middle school with arts-focused curriculum)
• Millikan High School (A top-rated high school with various academic pathways)
  

East Long Beach is known for its safety, family-friendly atmosphere, and some of the best schools in the city. With beautiful parks, community centers, and plenty of family activities, it’s a top contender for parents looking to settle in a peaceful environment.

Additional School Options in Long Beach

Long Beach is home to a variety of charter and private schools that provide additional
educational opportunities:

• Charter Schools: Intellectual Virtues Academy, Westerly School, and Long Beach Scholars Academy.
  
• Private Schools: St. Joseph High School, St. Anthony High School, and The Hebrew Academy.
  

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right neighborhood and school is one of the most important decisions for families
moving to Long Beach. As a mom with kids at every education level, I understand the
importance of finding the perfect balance between education, community, and lifestyle. If you’re
thinking about relocating to Long Beach and need expert guidance on the best family-friendly
neighborhoods, The Rivera Group is here to help!