Cost of Living in Santa barbara, CA
Santa barbara cost of living index: 149.4 (above the US average). Median home price: $2,122,500.
Updated 2026 • Based on 8 local zip codes
📍 Some data sourced from nearby metro area
49% above the national average
Housing
Data from 8 zip codes
Housing costs in Santa barbara, CA based on real market data from 8 local zip codes.
Considering a move to Santa barbara, CA? With a housing index of 200.0, the market indicates a higher demand. The median home price is steep at 2122500.0, suggesting a competitive buyer’s market. Renters also face substantial costs, with average rents at 6615.0 for apartments and for houses, making living in this area an investment. Additionally, neighboring regions might offer more affordable alternatives. Weigh your options carefully to determine if this vibrant locale aligns with your budgetary needs and lifestyle preferences.
Last updated: January 2026
Utilities
The cost of utilities such as electricity, natural gas, and other services can significantly impact the overall cost of living.
Living in Santa barbara, CA could entail variable utility costs. Electricity costs sit at $32.99, while natural gas is priced at $16.99 per Thousand Cubic Feet. Expect to budget about $170.75 monthly for other services like water and garbage.
Cost Breakdown by Category
Local Income & Economy in Santa barbara, CA
How far does your money go in Santa barbara? Understanding the relationship between income and cost of living is key to evaluating affordability.
How We Calculate Adjusted Purchasing Power in Santa barbara
The adjusted purchasing power shows what a Santa barbara, CA household income is actually worth after accounting for local prices. We calculate it using the formula: Purchasing Power = Median Income ÷ Cost of Living Index × 100
For Santa barbara, that's $98,346 ÷ 149.4 × 100 = $65,827. This means a household earning the median income in Santa barbara has the equivalent buying power of $65,827 in a city where the cost of living index equals the national baseline of 100.
With a cost of living index of 149.4, Santa barbara is significantly more expensive than the national average. Despite a median income of $98,346, the high cost of housing, groceries, and everyday expenses reduces real purchasing power to $65,827. If you're planning to move to Santa barbara, budgeting carefully for rent and housing costs is essential. Households relocating from lower-cost areas should expect to spend more on basic necessities.
With a median home price of $2,122,500, housing affordability in Santa barbara is a significant factor. Prospective homebuyers should consider that mortgage payments, property taxes, and insurance in Santa barbara, CA will consume a larger share of household income compared to cities with a lower cost of living index.
💡 Purchasing power is calculated by dividing the local median household income by the cost of living index and multiplying by 100. A result higher than the nominal income means your money goes further; a lower result means local prices erode your earnings. The US baseline cost of living index is 100.
Pros & Cons of Living in Santa barbara
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
💡City Insights
Santa barbara scores 1/10 for affordability, 5/10 for safety, and 5/10 for family-friendliness — an challenging overall profile. However, affordability is a weaker area that prospective residents should consider carefully.
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 $6,615/month (requiring ~$264,600/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. 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 $264,600/year (at $6,615/month). See full affordability analysis →
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.
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 nearby cities? ▼
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 0 per 1,000 residents, you can compare these metrics side-by-side. Use the compare feature to evaluate specific cities.
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 →
What factors affect cost of living in Santa barbara, CA? ▼
The main factors affecting cost of living in Santa barbara, CA include housing costs (the biggest factor), utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare. Local taxes and the overall economic conditions also play a role.
Housing Costs by Zip Code
Detailed housing data across 8 zip codes in Santa barbara, CA.
| Zip Code | Median Home Price | Avg Rent | 2BR Rent | For Sale | For Rent |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 93101 | $2,195,000 | $5,380/mo | $4,900/mo | 45 | 78 |
| 93103 | $1,950,000 | $6,457/mo | $5,000/mo | 41 | 40 |
| 93105 | $2,050,000 | $8,182/mo | $4,200/mo | 61 | 46 |
| 93108 | $5,950,000 | $38,877/mo | $17,500/mo | 84 | 81 |
| 93109 | $2,995,000 | $10,775/mo | $6,900/mo | 30 | 27 |
| 93110 | $3,600,000 | $18,638/mo | $3,950/mo | 44 | 21 |
| 93111 | $1,795,000 | $9,010/mo | $6,870/mo | 26 | 11 |
| 93117 | $1,395,000 | $5,419/mo | $3,600/mo | 61 | 52 |
Explore More About Santa barbara, CA
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (ACS), Bureau of Labor Statistics, Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER), Zillow, Redfin