15 Tips For Moving to and Living in Santa Barbara (2024)

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Santa Barbara has been voted one of the happiest places to live in the United States and it’s no wonder why. The city is located on the Central Coast of California and enjoys a temperate climate, beautiful beaches, and close proximity to Los Angeles and other popular coastal towns. Whether you are moving to Santa Barbara for work or pleasure, here are some tips to help you get settled and enjoy living in Santa Barbara.

As someone who has lived in this beautiful coastal city for over 4 years, I will cover the cost of living, the weather, where to find good food and drinks, and more. So whether you’re just starting your research or are ready to take the plunge, keep reading for all the info on Santa Barbara!

Is Santa Barbara a Good Place to Move To?

Santa Barbara is a beautiful California city located about a two-hour drive from Los Angeles. It’s known for its Spanish-style architecture, stunning beaches, and extensive wine country.

The cost of living in Santa Barbara is high, but the city has excellent public schools and a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, theaters, and festivals. In addition, Santa Barbara enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it a great place to live. If you’re thinking of moving to Santa Barbara, you won’t be disappointed!

Is Living in Santa Barbara Worth It?

Personally, I fully believe it’s worth the high cost of living to live in paradise. However, this is subjective to everyone. I will go into the details of the pros and cons of living in Santa Barbara below to help you decide if this is the city for you!

Is Living in Santa Barbara Expensive?

Yes. Santa Barbara is an expensive place to live, there’s no doubt about it. The cost of living here is high, and rents are through the roof. But it’s not all doom and gloom – there are some silver linings to living in SB.

For one, the weather is absolutely gorgeous here. You’ll never have to worry about shoveling snow off your car or dealing with freezing temperatures. And, while Santa Barbara may be expensive, it’s not as pricey as some places in California such as San Francisco or Silicon Valley.

Pros and Cons of Living in Santa Barbara

CONS of Living in Santa Barbara:

• Expensive cost of living
• Rent is exceptionally high for homes that are old and sub-par
• Difficult and limited job market
• No international airport (there is a domestic airport but you will have to get to LAX to fly internationally)
• Risk of detrimental fires and mudslides
• Possible water and energy rationing concerns
• Increasing population of homeless people (that’s true with all of California)
• The next biggest cities are about an hour away (a bit isolated)
• Not a huge city, you won’t get the glitz and glam of Los Angeles

PROS of Living in Santa Barbara:

• Beautiful scenery with both beaches (surfing, scuba diving, kayaking, etc.) and mountains (hiking, camping, climbing, etc.)
• Warm weather that stays mild all year (can get chilly in the winter)
• Friendly people and a laid-back California coastal vibe
• Great schools and higher education opportunities
• Dog-friendly pretty much everywhere!
• Incredible dining, coffee shops, etc.
• Fantastic wineries (plus top-notch breweries)
• Beautiful architecture and history throughout the city
• Close to LA and other big cities while still having a small-city feel
• Gorgeous properties (if you can afford them)
• Festivals and events occur throughout the year

Cost of Living in Santa Barbara

According to Numbeo, the cost of living for a family of four is estimated at about $5,500/month, and a single person about $1,500/month, before including rent or a mortgage.

Average Rent Price

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Santa Barbara is $2,800 but can range from $2,400 to $4,000+.

The average rent for a three-bedroom place is $3,800 but can range from $3,500 to $7,000+.

Average Cost of Buying a Home

The average cost of buying a home in Santa Barbara is about $1.7M to $2.2M.

You might be able to find a simple, small home in the $700,000-$900,000 range, but chances are you will have a hard time finding anything nice for under a million.

If you have the money, there is the opportunity for beautiful homes on gorgeous lots in the couple million to over $10M range, especially up in the hills or in Montecito.

Average Costs in Santa Barbara for…

• A meal: $15 to $50

• A cup of coffee: $7

• A beer at a restaurant: $7 to $9

• A cocktail: $9 to $17

• A gallon of gas: $4 to $6 (Generally slightly more expensive than the price of gas in LA)

• Groceries: ~$65 to $120/week for a single person

How Much Do You Need to Make to Live Comfortably in Santa Barbara?

At a minimum, if you tend to live on a budget and have a lower-end cost of rent, you probably want to be making at least $4,000/month as a single person to live comfortably in Santa Barbara.

Salary Needed to Live in Santa Barbara

The average annual household income in Santa Barbara is $118,420 with an average annual salary ranging from about $60K to $100K.

Jobs Available in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is not a huge city, and therefore it has some limitations in its job market. The leading industries in Santa Barbara tend to be Accommodation and Food Services, Health Care and Social Services, Retail, and Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services.

The restaurant and hospitality industries are always booming and have an abundance of jobs. The university creates many jobs for people with a higher education background. Plus, there are also quite a few start-ups and tech companies in the area, so there are plenty of job possibilities for those with the right skills.

What Is the Best Area to Move to in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is a beautiful city with a lot to offer. There are many different areas to explore, each with a unique atmosphere. If you’re looking for a lively scene, State Street is the place to be. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to keep you busy, and the views of the ocean are simply stunning. Lower State especially by Stearns Wharf and the Funk Zone is a fantastic place to be within walking distance of all the best restaurants, bars, and events.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe, head up into the bluffs or the mountains. The views from up there are incredible, and it’s much quieter (but also more expensive) than downtown. Or, look for places to the north and/or a couple of blocks off State Street for more residential and peaceful areas. Whatever your style, Santa Barbara has an area that’s perfect for you.

Best Neighborhoods to Live In

Downtown – for a range of housing options from budget apartments to quirky bungalows, right in the heart of the action.

The Mesa – on the blufftops with trails and beach access, a mix of families, young professionals, and city college students.

Hope Ranch – just north of the Mesa, homes tend to be a bit more expensive and private.

Mission Canyon – residential homes a bit further up in the hills.

The Riviera – also up in the hills, homes have beautiful views and tend to draw a slightly older crowd of professionals and retirees.

Montecito – popular with celebrities and the ultra-rich, these homes are gorgeous and secluded.

Goleta (just to the north of Santa Barbara) – for budget homes and family-friendly neighborhoods.

Isla Vista – for college students (mostly those attending the University of California Santa Barbara).

Santa Barbara Population and Demographics

The average population in Santa Barbara is about 456,000.

The median age of people living in Santa Barbara is 39 years old.

There is a poverty rate of 13.01%.

According to the latest results from the American Community Survey, the racial composition of Santa Barbara residents is:

• White: 76.13%
• Other race: 10.53%
• Two or more races: 7.13%
• Asian: 3.87%
• Black or African American: 1.58%
• Native American: 0.70%
• Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 0.05%

Crime Rates

Santa Barbara is a relatively safe city to live in. Most of the crime that occurs happens around the college town (Isla Vista) while most neighborhoods around Santa Barbara are very safe.

The number of crimes is slightly higher in Santa Barbara than the national average, but the majority of crime is related to property, and fewer of it is violent crime.

Transportation Options in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is very much a car-centric city. The side streets are picturesque, and the 101 highway offers stunning views of the coast. However, traffic can be a bit heavy during rush hour, so it’s always worth checking the local traffic reports before hitting the road.

Santa Barbara also has a decent public transportation system, with buses (the MTD) and trains (Amtrak’s Coast Starlight Train and Pacific Surfliner Train) running throughout and out of the city. The fares are reasonably priced, and the schedules are relatively reliable.

It’s possible to get around on foot or by bike if you live outside of the strictly residential areas. Downtown Santa Barbara and Isla Vista are especially easy to get around on foot and bike.

Uber, taxis, and rental cars are also abundant as well.

Thinking About Renting a Car?

Unfortunately, you basically have to drive in California to get around. The public transportation system isn’t very reliable, everything is spread out, and Ubers add up.

My go-to car rental service in California is Discover Cars. They compare prices across the leading car rental services to find you the LOWEST prices and BEST deals.

🚗 CLICK HERE TO SEARCH FOR YOUR RENTAL CAR

Santa Barbara School System and Colleges

Santa Barbara has an exceptional school system. There are 19 TK to 12 schools to choose from. About 76% of students go to college/university and the student-to-staff ratio is about 1:8.

There are five high schools in Santa Barbara:

• Alta Vista Alternative High School
• Dos Pueblos High School
• La Cuesta Continuation High School
• San Marcos High School
• Santa Barbara High School 

Santa Barbara has a great city college located in the downtown area, as well as one of the top public universities in the nation, the University of California Santa Barbara.

>>> RELATED POST: Top 25 Party Schools in California

Climate and Weather in Santa Barbara

The weather in Santa Barbara is lovely and some of the best weather in California! It’s typically described as Mediterranean. The summers are warm and dry (without ever being too hot) and the winter can be cool and wet, but never too cold. It doesn’t rain very much and never snows (though you can still easily get to the snow if you want).

The average summer temperature is about 74°F (23°C), with an average high of 77°F (25°C) and a low of 59°F (15°C).

The average winter temperature is about or below 66°F (19°C), with an average low of 43°F (6°C) and a high of 64°F (18°C).

Potential Natural Disasters

Unfortunately, Santa Barbara is also susceptible to natural disasters, including wildfires, mudslides, and occasional earthquakes.

In recent years, wildfires have destroyed countless homes and businesses, while mudslides have caused widespread damage to infrastructure. As a result, Santa Barbara residents must be prepared for the possibility of a natural disaster striking.

Living in Santa Barbara in Your 20’s

Moving to a new city can be both exciting and daunting, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. Santa Barbara is a beautiful city with a lot to offer, but it’s important to do your research before making the move. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re considering living in Santa Barbara in your 20s.

First, Santa Barbara is a relatively small city, so if you’re looking for a big-city experience (or a plethora of job opportunities), this may not be the place for you.

However, Santa Barbara is perfect for those who want all the activity of a city without the hustle and bustle. There’s always something to do, whether you’re exploring the beaches or hiking in the mountains. And there’s still great nightlife! Santa Barbara has everything from dive bars to nightclubs (Wildcat and EOS).

Second, Santa Barbara can be a great place to meet new people and make friends, but it’s also important to have realistic expectations. The city is small, so you may not find the same variety of people and opportunities that you would in a larger city. However, the friends you will make will be genuine and enjoy the same pace of life as you!

Lastly, remember that Santa Barbara is known for its laid-back lifestyle, so don’t be surprised if things move a bit slower than you’re used to. But overall, if you’re looking for a beautiful place to call home, Santa Barbara should definitely be on your list.

A Brief History of Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is a city with a rich history. For many years, the Chumash people lived in the region until the Spanish arrived. With them came a new culture and architecture, and Santa Barbara soon became known for its beautiful Spanish-style buildings.

Today, the city is home to the oldest working wharf in California, and its unique blend of cultures makes it a truly special place to visit. Whether you’re interested in its Native American roots or its Spanish colonial history, Santa Barbara has something to offer everyone in the way of rich California history.

Best Things to Do in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara has much to offer its residents. From great dining and bars to an active outdoor scene and exciting nightlife, there is something for everyone in Santa Barbara.

There are also many great day trips to take from Santa Barbara, including to the nearby beaches, cities, wineries, and hiking trails.

Top Attractions

• Visit the Old Mission, Courthouse (stunning panoramic views from the top), and El Presidio de Santa Barbara to learn more about the history of the area.
• Wander through the Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens.
• Barhop through the incredible breweries, wineries, and cocktail lounges in the Funk Zone.
• Go shopping on State Street.
• Explore Stearns Wharf.

• Go on a wine-tasting tour.
• See a show at the Arlington Theater.
• Get into an outdoor activity such as kayaking, rock climbing, SUPing, or surfing.
• Visit the Santa Barbara Zoo.
• Embrace your inner child at the Moxi Museum.
• Take a city and beach electric bike tour to get to know your new home.
• Go on one of the many incredible hikes in the area (Inspiration Point, 7 Falls, Lizards Mouth, etc.).
• See a concert at the Santa Barbara Bowl.
• Shop at the Santa Barbara Farmers Market.
• Enjoy holiday festivities in December.

Santa Barbara Beaches

Santa Barbara is home to some of the best beaches in California. Leadbetter Beach downtown is a great spot for surfing. You can bike along the beach by the wharf. Or, if you’re looking for more secluded beaches, you can go north or south of the city.

North of Santa Barbara, you’ll find El Capitan State Beach, Refugio State Beach, and Jalama Beach County Park.

To the south, you have Rincon Point State Beach, beaches along Carpenteria, and Santa Claus Beach. No matter what kind of beach you’re looking for, Santa Barbara has something for everyone.

>>> RELATED POST: Top 15 Santa Barbara Surf Spots (Where to Find Lessons + Rent Boards)

Festivals

Santa Barbara has many fun festivals throughout the year. My personal favorite is the Old Spanish Days Fiesta where the whole city comes alive with parades, music, dancing, and good spirit to celebrate Spanish culture.

Other popular festivals include the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Avocado Festival, Lemon Festival, and Summer Solstice Celebration and Parade.

Best Restaurants

Santa Barbara is a foodie paradise, with an abundance of restaurants to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, farm-to-table fare, or global cuisine, you’re sure to find something to suit your taste. And with so many options, you’ll never be bored with your dining choices.

So, Is Santa Barbara a Good Place to Live?

Despite the high cost of living, Santa Barbara is a fantastic place to move to and live in. The beautiful architecture and scenery with an abundance of fantastic things to explore make it a wonderful place to settle down.

Plus, the weather can’t be beaten and the location is excellently situated in the middle of California. You will have all of a small town’s charm in a city that’s big enough to keep you entertained.

15 Tips and Things to Know Before Moving to and Living in Santa Barbara

1. Start developing local relationships to help with your job search.
2. Secure a job before moving to Santa Barbara (unless you have healthy savings to live off of).
3. Do your research into which neighborhood you want to live in depending on budget, location, and community preference. They are surprisingly different, but so many great options!
4. For budget-conscious movers, many people live with roommates in Santa Barbara.
5. Join local Facebook housing groups to find roommates and learn about neighborhoods.
6. Facebook groups can help you find second-hand furniture, etc. as well.
7. For college students looking to live in Isla Vista, you will need to secure a lease in the winter/early spring to move in early summer.
8. Start searching for your rental or home to buy well in advance, it’s very competitive in Santa Barbara.
9. Utilize the abundance of second-hand shops and local goods when furnishing your new home.
10. Make friends by joining local groups through Meetup, churches, classes at local schools, gyms, shops, etc.
11. Get out into the surrounding nature and soak up the beauty outside of the city as well.
12. Make sure to explore your new home and find out what events are happening!
13. The summer is warmest from August to October (“June gloom” is definitely a thing).
14. You will need a car and probably want to purchase a bike.
15. The 101 is the only highway through the city and it can get VERY backed up during rush hour in the morning/evening.

SUMMARY: Moving to and Living in Santa Barbara

If you’re considering a move to Santa Barbara, I hope this post has helped give you a better idea of what to expect. It can be a great place to live with plenty of opportunities for work and play. Just be prepared for the high cost of living and occasional gloomy weather!

If you have any questions about Santa Barbara or your move, I’m happy to help: janelle@makethetripmatter.com

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