Taxes in Santa barbara, CA
Updated 2026 • Property, income & sales tax data
📊 Total Annual Tax Burden in Santa barbara, CA
The combined effect of property, income, and sales taxes determines your total tax burden. Based on Santa barbara's median household income of $98,346 and a local median home price of $2,741,250.
🏠 Property Tax in Santa barbara, CA
Property taxes are collected by local governments and used to fund schools, infrastructure, and other local services.
Note: The effective rate represents the percentage of a property's value paid in taxes annually. The US average property tax rate is approximately 1.1%. The estimate above uses the local median home price of $2,741,250 for Santa barbara, not the national median of $419,200.
💼 State Income Tax in CA
Income tax rates and brackets vary by state, impacting residents' overall tax burden. The top bracket applies to income above $$10112-$1000000.
Note: Tax estimates are approximations based on standard deductions and may not account for all applicable credits, deductions, or individual circumstances. For personalized tax advice, please consult a qualified tax professional.
🛒 Sales Tax in Santa barbara, CA
Sales tax is applied to most retail purchases and is collected by merchants at the point of sale. The rate can vary based on location and type of purchase.
Impact on Common Household Expenses
| Category | Annual Spending | Est. Sales Tax |
|---|---|---|
| Groceries | $7,000 | $840 |
| Retail | $5,000 | $600 |
| Dining | $3,500 | $420 |
| Total Annual | $15,500 | $1,860 |
💡 Did you know? Not all states tax groceries, and some have tax holidays for specific items like back-to-school supplies or emergency preparedness equipment. Check with local authorities for exemptions that might apply to you.
Understanding Your Tax Burden in Santa barbara, CA
What's the tax situation in Santa barbara, CA? Residents face lower property taxes (effective rate: 0.66%). Income tax details below. Combined sales tax reaches 7.25%. Plan your finances with our detailed tax analysis.
Tax Pros & Cons of 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 0% equal to the national average, with a cost of living index of 100 (where 100 represents the U.S. average). Housing typically accounts for the largest portion of living expenses. See full cost of living breakdown →
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 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 vary in price depending on proximity to amenities and schools.
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 100 reflects a moderate 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 100, median home prices of $0, 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 →
Explore More About Santa barbara, CA
📅 Last Updated: February 2026
Sources: Tax Foundation, State Revenue Departments, U.S. Census Bureau ACS