On May 1st, more than 100 renters, workers, and community groups gathered in downtown Long Beach to demand changes in housing policy. The group marched through the streets to city hall, holding signs and chanting for rent control, stronger legal protections, and fair wages. Many said they’re tired of being priced out of their homes while their pay stays the same. The event was part of a national day for workers’ rights, but in Long Beach, the focus was also on the growing housing crisis.
Rent Hikes Are Forcing People Out
Renters shared stories of sudden, massive rent increases. Some said their landlords raised the rent by hundreds or even thousands of dollars without warning. One person explained that their rent tripled, going from around $1,000 to more than $3,000. People who have lived in their homes for years are being forced to move, not because they did anything wrong, but because they simply can’t afford the new prices. These stories aren’t rare—more and more tenants are speaking out, saying they’re being pushed to the edge financially.
A City Where Most People Rent
In Long Beach, about 60% of residents are renters. This means that changes in rent affect a majority of the population. While the city has seen development and new buildings in some areas, many longtime residents feel left behind. The cost of living keeps going up, but wages haven’t kept pace. Renters are struggling to keep up with higher bills, food prices, and now, rising housing costs. Some feel the city is catering more to investors and developers than to the people who actually live and work there.
What Renters Are Asking the City to Do
The protestors aren’t just complaining—they have specific requests. First, they want the city to pass a law that limits rent increases to no more than 3% per year. This would help prevent sudden, extreme rent hikes. Second, they want a ban on “renoviction”—when landlords evict tenants by claiming they need to renovate the unit. Third, they’re asking for $2.2 million to go toward a tenant justice fund that would pay for legal aid, especially for immigrants and low-income renters. Lastly, they want a higher local minimum wage so workers can actually afford to live where they work.
Where Renters Can Get Help
Community speakers also highlighted how eviction affects certain groups more than others, especially single mothers, Black women, and low-income families. They urged renters not to wait until it’s too late. Help is available, and people should use it. Groups like the tenant union and online resources like StayHousedLA.org offer legal advice, know-your-rights workshops, and guidance on how to deal with unfair evictions. The message was clear: people need to organize, speak up, and demand change from city leaders before more families are displaced.
