Kitchen remodels in Long Beach
The Census estimates 78.6% of Long Beach housing units were built before 1980 (ACS 2020–2024), so plan for older-home checks before you remodel.
Long Beach at a glance
- Share of Long Beach housing units built before 1980
- 78.6%
- Median year Long Beach structures were built
- 1959
- Share of occupied Long Beach housing units that are owner-occupied
- 41.2%
U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 2020–2024 5-year estimates · data as of
- Numbers from US Census public records
- Up to three local contractors, never a long list
- Free, no obligation
What do permits say a kitchen remodel costs?
From City of LA building permits, last 12 months. Not a contract price. How we calculate this
Declared values on City of Los Angeles building permits, last 12 months. The dataset covers the City of Los Angeles only, so treat it as a regional reference for Long Beach. A declared value is what the permit states, not your contract price. How we calculate this.
Source: LA Department of Building and Safety, Building Permits Issued 2020 to Present (data.lacity.org), permits on one- and two-family homes issued to ; fire rebuilds excluded. ZIP medians need 20+ permits.
Long Beach housing at a glance
Long Beach housing at a glance
Local numbers for Long Beach, each with its source and date.
Planning your project
Most homes in Long Beach were built before 1980, with a median year built of 1959 (ACS 2020–2024). For a kitchen remodel, that means the first job is checking what is behind the walls: the electrical panel, supply pipes, drain lines and venting.
The Census also estimates that 41.2% of occupied homes are owner-occupied, so many properties are rentals. If you rent out your home, plan the work around tenants, keep them informed, and ask the builder how dust, noise and kitchen access will be handled.
The median value of owner-occupied homes is $806,600 (ACS 2020–2024). Use that as a general frame: decide how much the remodel should add relative to what the home is worth, and set a budget around that. Items to check in older homes are things to look at, not certainties for every house.
The typical kitchen remodel path in Long Beach
The typical kitchen remodel path in Long Beach
Plan the layout and budget
Write down what is not working in the kitchen, such as storage, flow, lighting and appliances. Set a budget range you are comfortable with and list must-haves separately from nice-to-haves.
Design and choose materials
Work with a designer or the builder to pick the layout, cabinets, counters, flooring and fixtures. Check that the appliances you want fit the electrical capacity of your home.
Confirm whether a permit is needed
Ask the builder whether your project needs a building permit from the City of Long Beach. Get the answer in writing before work begins.
Permit where required
If permits are needed, the builder or you can apply with the city. Keep copies of approved plans on site.
Test older materials before demolition
Before demolition in a home built before 1978, have paint and materials tested for lead and, where the flooring or mastic looks old, for asbestos. Plan safe removal based on the results.
Demolish and inspect the framing
Remove cabinets, flooring and fixtures. Check the framing, subfloor and any hidden water damage. In older homes, look at galvanized supply pipes and cast-iron drain lines.
Rough-in plumbing and electrical
Rough-in plumbing and electrical work follows. Check the electrical panel and circuit capacity for modern appliances. Venting should be reviewed as well. Schedule the required inspections before walls are closed.
Install cabinets, counters and fixtures
Install cabinets, counters, sinks, range and fixtures. Keep a clear plan for tenants or household members if you are living in the home.
Final inspection and handover
Complete the final inspection and review the finished work with the builder before you make final payment.
Frequently asked questions
Why do the older homes in Long Beach matter for my kitchen?
Most Long Beach homes were built before 1980. The Census estimates 78.6% of the city's housing units were built before 1980, and the median year built is 1959 (ACS 2020–2024). That means older wiring, galvanized pipes, and possible lead paint or asbestos are worth checking before demolition. Ask the builder how they handle these checks.
I rent out my Long Beach home. What should I plan for?
The Census estimates 41.2% of occupied Long Beach housing units are owner-occupied (ACS 2020–2024). That means many homes are rentals. If you rent out your property, plan the schedule with your tenants in mind, keep them informed about dust, noise and access, and talk with the builder about how the work will be phased.
How should I think about budget compared with home value?
The median value of owner-occupied Long Beach homes is $806,600 (ACS 2020–2024). Use that figure only as a general frame: think about how much a remodel adds to the home relative to its value, and avoid spending far beyond what buyers in your area would pay. A local builder can help you set a realistic scope.
What should I prepare before asking for a quote?
Start with a clear list of what you want, a rough budget, and your measurements. Then ask a local builder to look at the space, explain the work, and give you a written quote. Check any contractor's license status with the CSLB (Contractors State License Board) before you sign.
Will my kitchen remodel need a permit?
Ask the builder whether your project needs a building permit from the City of Long Beach. Permit needs depend on the scope of work, so get the answer in writing before work starts.
Recent work by a contractor in our network
Photos from the contractor's own projects, used with permission. Captions name the type of work.
Kitchen, whole-home remodel 
Kitchen remodel 
Kitchen remodel 
Kitchen remodel 
Whole-home remodel 
Kitchen, major remodel
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