Santa barbara, CA — Cost of Living & Relocation Guide
Population: 87,533
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
About Santa barbara, CA
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to Santa barbara, CA. With a population of 87,533, Santa barbara features a cost of living index of 149.4 (49.4% above the national average of 100). The local economy supports a median household income of $98,346 (31% above the national average), while the real estate market offers homes at a median price of $2,122,500.
Explore our detailed crime and safety data (26% above the national average), school ratings, tax information, and climate data below. Compare Santa barbara with Ontario or other cities.
📅 Data last updated: February 2026 | Sources: U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, BLS
Santa barbara, CA Quick Facts & Key Statistics
💡City Insights
Santa barbara scores 1/10 for affordability, 4/10 for safety, and 3/10 for family-friendliness — an challenging overall profile. However, affordability is a weaker area that prospective residents should consider carefully.
Living in Santa barbara, CA
Santa Barbara, located along the central coast of California, is renowned for its stunning Mediterranean-style architecture, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant cultural scene. Often referred to as the "American Riviera," the city enjoys a mild climate, making it a popular destination year-round. Santa Barbara is known for its historic Spanish colonial buildings, such as the iconic Mission Santa Barbara and the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, which offers panoramic views of the city from its clock tower. The downtown area features a variety of shops, restaurants, and art galleries, with State Street serving as a central hub for both locals and tourists. The city boasts picturesque beaches like East Beach and West Beach, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Santa Ynez Mountains, offering hiking and breathtaking views. Santa Barbara also has a thriving wine region, with numerous wineries and tasting rooms just a short drive away. Annual events like the Santa Barbara Film Festival further enhance the city's cultural richness. With its stunning landscapes and vibrant community, Santa Barbara stands out as a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
How Santa barbara Compares
Black line indicates US average
💵 Affordability Calculator
Based on the 28/36 rule: housing costs should not exceed 28% of your gross income. Compared against local median income of $98,346.
Income Needed to Buy
Income Needed to Rent
Pros & Cons of Moving to Santa barbara, CA
Pros
- • Friendly community vibe
- • Quality schools and education
- • Diverse dining options
- • Low crime compared to cities
- • Vibrant arts and culture scene
- • Active nightlife for young adults
- • Near wine country and mountains
- • Beautiful beaches and weather
- • Strong tourism industry
- • Great outdoor activities
Cons
- • Water shortage problems
- • Political divide among residents
- • Limited job opportunities
- • Traffic congestion issues
- • High cost of living
- • Less diversity in some areas
- • Limited public transport options
- • Can feel touristy at times
- • Wildfire risks in summer
- • High homelessness rates
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Santa barbara, CA? ▼
The cost of living in Santa barbara, CA is 49% higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 149 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
How much does it cost to buy or rent a home in Santa barbara, CA? ▼
In Santa barbara, CA, The median home price is $2,122,500. requiring approximately $497,679 annual income to afford. Average rent is $12,842/month (requiring ~$513,687/year income). The local median household income is $98,346, making homeownership challenging for typical residents. Explore Santa barbara real estate data →
Is Santa barbara, CA a safe place to live? ▼
Santa barbara, CA is average in terms of safety, with crime rates near the national average. The crime rate is 28.9 per 1,000 residents. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood. View detailed Santa barbara crime statistics →
What salary do you need to live comfortably in Santa barbara, CA? ▼
To live comfortably in Santa barbara, CA and afford a median-priced home of $2,122,500, you would typically need a household income of $530,625 to $663,281 per year. The local median household income is $98,346. Renting requires approximately $513,687/year (at $12,842/month). See full affordability analysis →
What are the job opportunities like in Santa barbara, CA? ▼
Santa barbara, CA has an unemployment rate of 3.4%, which is below the national average of 3.7%. The median household income is $98,346, suggesting strong local economic conditions. View Santa barbara employment & demographics →
Is Santa barbara, CA growing? ▼
Santa barbara, CA has a population of 87,533. As a mid-to-large city, population trends depend on local housing development, job growth, and quality of life factors. The higher cost housing market and strong job market shape migration patterns. See Santa barbara population demographics →
What are the best neighborhoods in Santa barbara, CA? ▼
The best neighborhoods in Santa barbara, CA depend on your priorities. For families, look for areas near top-rated schools with lower crime rates. For affordability, neighborhoods farther from the city center tend to offer more affordable options. Explore Santa barbara on our interactive map →
What is the commute like in Santa barbara, CA? ▼
Commute times in Santa barbara, CA vary by neighborhood and workplace location. As a mid-size community, most residents rely on personal vehicles, though public transit options may be available. The moderate cost of living may allow for housing closer to employment centers. Explore commute times on our map →
How are the taxes in Santa barbara, CA? ▼
Tax rates in Santa barbara, CA include state and local components. The cost of living index of 149 indicates a higher cost environment compared to the national average. View detailed Santa barbara tax information →
How does Santa barbara, CA compare to Ontario? ▼
Santa barbara, CA offers comparable costs to nearby communities. With a cost of living index of 149, median home prices of $2,122,500, and a crime rate of 28.94 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Compare Santa barbara vs Ontario →
What is the weather like in Santa barbara, CA? ▼
Weather in Santa barbara, CA varies by season. Climate data varies by season. View detailed Santa barbara climate & environment data →
Explore Santa barbara in Detail
📅 Last Updated: February 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), FBI Uniform Crime Reports, Bureau of Labor Statistics