The demand for skilled handymen in Long Beach, California continues to grow thanks to residential and commercial maintenance needs, aging properties, and a busy real estate market. Whether you’re considering this trade as a career or exploring earning potential, this guide covers 2026 handyman salary in Long Beach, CA in detail — including wage ranges, factors that influence pay, experience-based earnings, job outlook, benefits, and comparisons with nearby cities.
Average Handyman Salary in Long Beach, CA
Handyman salaries in Long Beach are slightly higher than the national average, largely due to California’s higher cost of living and strong demand for home maintenance services.
Estimated Salary Overview (2026)
| Salary Category | Pay Range (Annual) | Monthly Equivalent | Hourly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Handyman | $40,000 – $48,000 | $3,300 – $4,000 | $20 – $24 |
| Mid-Level Handyman | $48,000 – $60,000 | $4,000 – $5,000 | $24 – $30 |
| Experienced Handyman | $60,000 – $75,000+ | $5,000 – $6,250+ | $30 – $36+ |
| Typical Average Salary | ~$56,000 | ~$4,650 | ~$27.50 |
✨ The average handyman salary in Long Beach, CA is approximately $56,000 per year, or about $27.50 per hour.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience significantly impacts how much handyman professionals can earn:
🛠️ Entry-Level (0–2 Years)
Handles basic repair and maintenance tasks
Limited independent troubleshooting
Typical pay: $40,000 – $48,000 annually
Hourly: $20 – $24
🧰 Mid-Level (3–6 Years)
Performs a broader range of repairs
May handle jobs independently
Typical pay: $48,000 – $60,000
Hourly: $24 – $30
🧱 Experienced / Skilled (7+ Years)
Capable of managing more complex tasks
May supervise or run own business
Typical pay: $60,000 – $75,000+
Hourly: $30 – $36+
Long-term experience and customer trust often lead to higher earning opportunities, especially for those who specialize or freelance.
Factors That Influence Handyman Earnings
Several key elements determine how much a handyman earns in Long Beach:
📌 Location & Cost of Living
Being in Southern California means higher wages compared to many other regions due to increased living costs.
⚒️ Skill Set & Versatility
Handymen who can perform plumbing, carpentry, painting, tiling, and minor electrical repairs tend to earn more.
📈 Demand & Seasonal Trends
Busy seasons (spring/summer) often bring more repair and maintenance work, enabling higher weekly earnings.
📊 Employment Type
Independent contractors / self-employed: can set higher rates, but income may vary.
Employed handymen: more stable earnings with potential benefits.
🧾 Business Licensing & Insurance
While California doesn’t require a specific handyman license, having a business license and liability insurance builds client trust and often allows higher rates.
Job Market Trends in Long Beach
The handyman job market remains healthy and growing in 2026:
Aging homes and rental turnover: consistent maintenance work
Growth in DIY fatigue: homeowners prefer hiring professionals
Short-term and long-term rental markets: steady repair demand
Small business growth: recurring clients and contract work
Many handymen also find flexible work through platforms and local service marketplaces, offering part-time or task-based earnings.
Benefits of Being a Handyman in Long Beach
⚙️ Job Flexibility: Many handymen set their schedules or take on side gigs.
💼 Self-Employment Opportunities: Ability to operate independently or start a small business.
📚 Low Entry Barriers: No formal degree required — skills and reliability matter more.
📈 Growth Potential: Skilled handymen can grow into contractors, supervisors, or business owners.
💰 Earning from Multiple Sources: Contract, hourly, per-job, or recurring maintenance agreements.
Education, Skills & Certification Impact
Unlike some trades, handymen don’t usually need formal licences for basic tasks — but training and credentials can boost earnings:
🔹 Helpful Qualifications
Trade or vocational training (carpentry, plumbing basics)
Safety and first-aid certificates
Business/entrepreneurship courses for self-employed workers
Specialized skills (flooring, tiling, cabinetry, appliance repair)
🎓 Skill Impact
Handymen with diverse skill sets often command higher hourly rates and can accept more lucrative jobs.
Handyman Salary Comparison: Nearby Cities
| City | Average Hourly Wage | Estimated Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Long Beach, CA | ~$27.50 | ~$56,000 |
| Los Angeles, CA | ~$26.17 | ~$54,000–$58,000 |
| Redondo Beach, CA | ~$30.85 (for specific service workers) | ~$64,000+ |
| Anaheim, CA | ~$25–$30 (typical range in SoCal) | ~$52,000–$62,000 |
| San Diego, CA | ~$28–$32 (regional range) | ~$58,000–$66,000 |
Long Beach wages are competitive with surrounding Southern California markets.
Tips to Increase Your Handyman Earnings
💡 Build a Strong Reputation
Happy customers bring repeat business and referrals.
💼 Diversify Services
Offering more skills (e.g., tile, painting, carpentry) increases earning opportunities.
📈 Set Competitive Rates
Research local market rates to ensure your pricing reflects skill level and demand.
🧰 Invest in Tools
Efficient, well-maintained tools enable faster work and higher job capacity.
📲 Use Online Platforms
Local marketplaces and task platforms help attract a broader customer base.
Conclusion
The handyman salary in Long Beach, CA (2026) is strong and reflects the city’s healthy demand for maintenance and repair services. With average earnings around $56,000 annually and opportunities to grow into higher-paying roles, this trade offers flexibility, solid income potential, and room for specialization.
Whether you’re starting out or advancing your handyman career, Long Beach provides a promising environment to earn and build a stable, skills-based profession.