We live in Yorba Linda, so the distance to LGB is 39 miles, versus 32 to LGB. Not sure how 7 extra miles ends up being an extra 50% bump, especially since you can take carpool lanes all the way to both airports, but I'll take your word for it.
We also don't mind the Hawaiian gates at LAX. We drive every time, and as I said, we usually fly Delta for all other travel, so we just park in structure 3 or 4 (I use the LAX parking app and pre-pay, typically saving 50-60%) and we're good for either airline. I also like the access to a lounge so I can arrive early, get something to eat, and relax a bit, and the Bradley Terminal has a Centurion Lounge. As you said, everyone j\has their own travel preferences, so it's all good.