Real Estate in Santa barbara, CA
Updated 2026 • Housing market data from 17 zip codes • Redfin data through January 2026
📊 Santa barbara, CA Market Activity
The Santa barbara housing market shows a median sale price of $1,800,500, 32.0% higher than last year. The price per square foot is $1,224, 1224% above the national median of ~$215/sqft, up 10.0% year-over-year. Homes in Santa barbara spend a median of 96 days on market, longer than the national median of 42 days — giving buyers more negotiation room.
🏘️ Santa barbara Rental Market
The average rent in Santa barbara, CA is $12,842 per month. A 2-bedroom apartment rents for approximately $6,615/month, while a 3-bedroom home averages $9,025/month.
📦 Santa barbara Housing Supply & Demand
There are 257 new listings and 295 active properties on the market.
🏆 Santa barbara Market Competitiveness
Homes in Santa barbara sell for an average of 96.0% of their asking price. About 24% of properties sell above list price, indicating moderate buyer competition.
On average, homes sell for 96.0% of the asking price
24% of sales closed above asking, % at or below
📋 Housing Overview
Santa barbara, CA Housing Market Insights
Delve into the specifics of the real estate market in this area. Understanding key metrics such as the median home price of 2122500, the balance between renting (59%) and owning (41%), and a population of 87533 provides valuable insights for potential buyers, sellers, and investors. It is important to note that neighborhood characteristics can vary drastically, and decisions should not solely rely on data available without visiting. Many factors can differ, so do consider inspecting areas in-person to avoid potential mismatches in choice.
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
With a median home price of $2,122,500 and average rents of $12,842/month, the median household income of $98,346 provides context for affordability in Santa barbara. Whether you're looking to buy property in Santa barbara or invest in Santa barbara real estate, understanding the price-to-rent ratio helps determine if renting or owning makes more financial sense for your situation. A 2-bedroom apartment rents for approximately $6,615/month, while a 3-bedroom house averages $9,025/month.
Economy & What Drives Santa barbara Real Estate
Real estate values in Santa barbara, CA are driven by local employment, school quality, and quality of life. The cost of living index of 149.4 (U.S. average = 100) reflects the overall affordability of the area. With a median household income of $98,346, residents have above-average purchasing power. Proximity to major employers, universities, and transportation corridors directly influences home values and demand across Santa barbara neighborhoods.
Pros & Cons
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 an area where crime rates exceed 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 →
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 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 28.94 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 →
Is it better to rent or buy in Santa barbara, CA? ▼
With a median home price of $2,122,500 and average rents of $12,842/month, the price-to-rent ratio in Santa barbara is 13.8x. This favors buying, as monthly mortgage payments may be comparable to or lower than rent. See full cost analysis →
What is the price per square foot in Santa barbara, CA? ▼
The median price per square foot in Santa barbara is $1,224, which is 469% above the national median of ~$215/sqft. This reflects the area's demand, construction costs, and proximity to employment centers.
How fast do homes sell in Santa barbara, CA? ▼
Homes in Santa barbara spend a median of 96 days on market before going under contract. This indicates homes take longer than the national median of 42 days, giving buyers more negotiating room. View full market data →
Explore More About Santa barbara, CA
📅 Last Updated: January 2026
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau, Zillow, Redfin