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Santa Barbara

Often called the “American Riviera,” is one of the most iconic coastal cities in California.

Welcome to Santa Barbara

Living in Santa Barbara, California: Neighborhoods, Homes & Lifestyle

Often called the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara, CA is one of the most iconic coastal cities in California. With its red-tile rooftops, Spanish Colonial architecture, palm-lined beaches, and backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara offers a lifestyle that is both laid-back and sophisticated.

Known for its luxury real estate, vibrant cultural scene, and outdoor beauty, Santa Barbara draws everyone from families and students to retirees and international buyers. Whether you’re walking along State Street, enjoying the waterfront, or exploring nearby wine country, Santa Barbara is a place where California dream living becomes reality.
 

Why People Love Santa Barbara

  • Scenic Beauty: Ocean, mountains, and Mediterranean-style architecture all in one city.
  • Cultural Richness: Museums, theaters, music festivals, and a thriving arts scene.
  • Beaches & Outdoors: East Beach, Arroyo Burro, and hiking in the Santa Ynez Mountains.
  • Education: Home to UC Santa Barbara and several top-ranked schools.
  • Lifestyle: A blend of small-town warmth and world-class amenities.

The Lifestyle in Santa Barbara

Living in Santa Barbara means enjoying endless sunshine, outdoor adventure, and cultural sophistication. Mornings often begin with a beach walk, afternoons might include wine tasting or boutique shopping, and evenings end with oceanfront dining or a concert under the stars.


Highlights include:

  • Outdoor Recreation: Surfing, paddleboarding, hiking, cycling, and sailing.
  • Shopping & Dining: Upscale boutiques along State Street, local farmers markets, and Michelin-rated restaurants.
  • Events: Old Spanish Days Fiesta, Santa Barbara Film Festival, and summer concerts at the Bowl.

Popular Neighborhoods in Santa Barbara

The Mesa

Beachside living with ocean views, parks, and a relaxed community vibe.

Riviera

Homes perched on the hillside offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and city lights.

Downtown Santa Barbara

Walkable streets with historic charm, fine dining, shops, and condos — perfect for those who want an urban lifestyle by the beach.

Upper East

Elegant historic homes and proximity to Santa Barbara Mission and parks.

San Roque

Family-friendly neighborhood with tree-lined streets, classic architecture, and excellent schools.
 

Santa Barbara Real Estate Market

The Santa Barbara real estate market is renowned worldwide for its beauty, exclusivity, and investment value. Properties range from charming Spanish-style bungalows to multi-million-dollar oceanfront estates.
 
  • Housing Variety: Spanish Colonial homes, luxury estates, modern architecture, and beachfront properties.
  • Median Prices: Among the highest in California, reflecting the city’s desirability.
  • Market Trends: High demand, limited supply, and steady appreciation.
Santa Barbara continues to attract buyers seeking both a primary residence and a vacation retreat, making it one of the strongest luxury markets on the West Coast.
 

Is Santa Barbara Right for You?

If you want a lifestyle that combines coastal beauty, cultural vibrancy, and luxury living, Santa Barbara is hard to beat. Whether you’re searching for a downtown condo, a hillside villa, or a beachfront estate, Santa Barbara offers a unique mix of sophistication and California charm.
 

Ready to explore homes for sale in Santa Barbara?

Our team specializes in Santa Barbara and Ventura County real estate and can guide you through this prestigious market. Contact us today for personalized listings and private showings.
 
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Overview for Santa Barbara, CA

88,024 people live in Santa Barbara, where the median age is 39.4 and the average individual income is $62,921. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

88,024

Total Population

39.4 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density
This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$62,921

Average individual Income

Around Santa Barbara, CA

There's plenty to do around Santa Barbara, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

29
Car-Dependent
Walking Score
31
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score
34
Some Transit
Transit Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Get Hooked Seafood, Gipsy Hill Bakery, and The Eddy.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 1.36 miles 12 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 1.03 miles 7 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 1.44 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 1.03 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 0.63 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1.32 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Santa Barbara, CA

Population Households Employment

Santa Barbara has 36,618 households, with an average household size of 2.34. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Santa Barbara do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 88,024 people call Santa Barbara home. The population density is 4,512.38 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

88,024

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

39.4

Median Age

48.87 / 51.13%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
36,618

Total Households

2.34

Average Household Size

$62,921

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Santa Barbara, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Santa Barbara. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating
Santa Barbara
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