After much speculation—including a false rumor of an incoming Whole Foods—Dollar Tree will move into the former Rite Aid space in Alamitos Beach. Signage has gone up, with workers saying the opening could happen within the coming weeks.
This mark the discount chain’s seventh Long Beach location. Shout-out to Long Beach Food Scene member Jordan Ferrari for the tip.
Mixed reactions to the Dollar Tree coming to Long Beach’s Gayborhood
Located in the heart of the Gayborhood at Cherry Avenue and Broadway, residents had long been hoping for something more along the lines of a market: Trader Joe’s. Whole Foods. Aldi…
“Was really hoping for a Trader Joe’s,” said Bixby Park resident Debra Zelenka. “It would be so nice for all the residents in the neighborhood to have one within walking distance.”
Also, the lack of a pharmacy is a bit disheartening as Rite Aid served hundreds of residents for their pharmaceutical needs. This was echoed by neighborhood resident Steve Leary when he said, “A pharmacy would have been better. A Dollar Tree is better than a vacant building, but certainly not what we wanted.”
Others, however, are cheering on the incoming Dollar Tree—and there is no shortage of fresh food in the neighborhood.
“As both a school teacher and a resident, I love Dollar Tree coming within walking distance,” said elementary educator Ana Mercado. “Random school supplies? Snack runs? Arts and crafts? Sounds incredible.”
Her sentiment has been echoed by others. And, even more, within a short distance of this very location, sit an incredible number of options for fresh food. Major markets include Ralph’s on 4th; Vons on Broadway; and Northgate on Cherry. The immediate neighborhood has not one, not two, but three farmers markets weekly. Two at Bixby Park on Tuesdays and Saturdays. And one at 4th Street and Cherry Avenue every Thursday, which is more chef- and cooking-focused.
Why Dollar Tree is important in the grand scheme of shopping options.
For many lower-income families, seniors on fixed incomes, students, and budget-conscious shoppers, Dollar Tree serves as more than just a discount retailer—it is a practical resource that helps stretch limited household budgets. By offering everyday necessities such as cleaning supplies, pantry staples, party goods, school supplies, and personal care items at low price points, the store allows families to manage rising costs while still accessing essential products.
In communities where grocery and retail options may be limited or increasingly expensive—Ralph’s is, by no means, affordable—Dollar Tree can provide an affordable alternative that helps residents make ends meet, reduce financial stress, and free up funds for larger expenses such as rent, utilities, transportation, and healthcare. As inflation continues to impact household spending, discount retailers like Dollar Tree remain an important part of the economic safety net for many Americans—including Long Beach residents.
Some fun history behind the building Dollar Tree is taking over in Long Beach…
The history of the building is intriguing: The building opened in 1930 as the Harriman Jones Clinic. Dr. W. Harriman Jones was an established doctor in Long Beach when he opened his first practice at 131 Pine Avenue in DTLB. The following year, he founded the first hospital in a small house at 327 Daisy in 1902.
Dollar Tree’s newest Long Beach location will be located at 211 Cherry Ave.
