Investing in Long Beach: long-term potential?

[Sophie Latapie]

Hi all! I've been on the hunt for a buy-and-hold investment property duplex in LA County where I could live in one, rent the other, and cashflow after one year. South LA seems to be the only spot where this strategy is feasible, but the area isn't great and certainly decades from gentrification. I've since turned my attention to Long Beach, CA - where neighborhoods & properties are in much better shape for similar prices. However, rents are low.

I'd love to hear from any Long Beach and/or LA investors, brokers, general neighborhood experts - does Long Beach have long-term potential? Is it a wise area to invest in if I'm looking to buy-and-hold? Or is sticking to LA County a safer bet since rents are always on the rise?

Thanks in advance for your guidance! 

Sophie