How the 2028 LA Olympics Will Transform Long Beach Real Estate

The 2028 Summer Olympics are set to bring a transformative wave to Long Beach, California, positioning the city not only as a key venue for global athletic events but also as a burgeoning hub for real estate development and economic growth. With strategic investments and infrastructural enhancements underway, Long Beach is poised to reap long-term benefits that extend well beyond the Games.

Long Beach: A Premier Olympic Venue

Long Beach is slated to host eight Olympic events in 2028, primarily centered around its scenic waterfront areas, including the Shoreline Aquatic Park and Long Beach Shoreline Marina . This selection underscores the city’s strategic importance and its capacity to accommodate large-scale international events.

Elevate ’28: Infrastructure Investment Plan

In anticipation of the Olympics, the City of Long Beach has launched the “Elevate ‘28” Infrastructure Investment Plan, a comprehensive five-year program (FY 2023–FY 2027) aimed at enhancing the city’s infrastructure. With over $533 million allocated initially and an additional $214 million added in Fiscal Year 2024, the plan encompasses over a hundred projects focused on mobility, park improvements, public facilities, and climate action .

Notable projects under Elevate ’28 include the development of the Terminal Island Freeway Open Space and improvements to the Tidelands Area Parking Garage, both designed to enhance accessibility and environmental sustainability .

Economic Ripple Effects on Real Estate

The infrastructural advancements and global spotlight from the Olympics are expected to have a significant impact on Long Beach’s real estate market. As of April 2025, the median home price in Long Beach reached $1,037,500, marking a 10.7% increase from the previous year .

Experts anticipate that the demand for housing will continue to rise, driven by increased interest from investors and individuals seeking proximity to the enhanced amenities and transportation networks. The city’s strategic location and improved infrastructure make it an attractive option for both residential and commercial real estate investments.

Short-Term Rental Surge

The influx of visitors during the Olympics is expected to boost the short-term rental market in Long Beach. Property owners may find lucrative opportunities in platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, catering to tourists seeking accommodations near Olympic venues. This surge in demand could lead to higher rental yields and increased property values in the surrounding areas.

Long-Term Community Benefits

Beyond the immediate economic gains, the Olympics are set to leave a lasting legacy in Long Beach. The city’s Strategic Roadmap emphasizes equity and inclusion, aiming to uplift small businesses, arts, culture, and tourism . Community advisory groups are being established to ensure that the developments align with the needs and aspirations of local residents.

The Bottom Line

The 2028 Olympics present a unique opportunity for Long Beach to showcase its capabilities on the world stage while catalyzing significant economic and infrastructural development. For real estate investors and residents alike, the Games are more than a sporting event—they are a springboard for sustainable growth and community enrichment.

As the city continues its preparations, stakeholders are encouraged to engage with the ongoing projects and explore the potential that this global event brings to Long Beach.