$1,666,028Average Value$901Average Price per Sq Ft31Homes For Sale
Beachside community, just north of Santa Barbara
Just north of Santa Barbara, Goleta attracts new residents with sunny California skies and beach access. “You get the Santa Barbara climate and lifestyle, but without as much limelight and tourism,” says Joe Parker, a Santa Barbara local and Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. “There’s a larger stock of lower-priced homes because there are more tract-style neighborhoods, and they have a great school system.” In addition to public schools, the University of California Santa Barbara is just west of the city, making it a major employer for the area, along with healthcare and software companies. Though Goleta has a lower median housing price, locals here enjoy the same sandy beaches and extensive bike trail network, making this a popular spot for young families and first-time homebuyers. Residents can easily drive to downtown Santa Barbara on Route 101 to enjoy a wider selection of restaurants and arts institutions. Still, Old Town Goleta and Calle Real Marketplace also house plenty of local and national businesses within the town itself.
Aerial of neighborhood street in Goleta.
Many locals walk their dog on the beach in Goleta.
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Lower housing costs compared to Santa Barbara
As of January 2024, homes in Goleta sell for a median price of about $1.3 million, significantly higher than California’s statewide median of about $853,000 but lower than Santa Barbara’s median price of about $2 million. Development primarily began in the 1960s with midcentury ranch-style and craftsman-inspired homes, slowing down in the late ‘90s. Some multi-million-dollar estate-sized properties are found in the Santa Ynez foothills. Condos, townhouses, and multiplexes are common, especially along highways and near major shopping centers. “There’s been a lot more housing development in Goleta than in Santa Barbara, with new condo and townhome communities,” Parker says. “It’s focused in Goleta because there’s a lot more flat land and old orchards they can redevelop.” A few manufactured home communities are also on the south side of town, including one senior living mobile home park.
Surrounding area of Goleta.
Goleta offers many newer homes for those looking to settle down.
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Waterfront recreation at Goleta Beach Park and Lake Los Carneros
Nearby oceanfront spaces are the highlight of outdoor life, including Haskell’s Beach, Goleta Beach Park and Santa Barbara Shores Park. Steep bluffs along the coast separate the sandy shores and cobalt blue water from hiking trails through dry brush and eucalyptus groves. The Sandpiper Golf Club’s public 18-hole course overlooks the Pacific Ocean, while the Glen Annie Golf Club is another public course set in the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains. The Coronado Butterfly Preserve is maintained by the Land Trust for Santa Barbara County and now functions as a habitat for wild plants and animals, known for its large Monarch Butterfly population. Lake Los Carneros is a hot spot for fishing and birdwatching, and it also offers scenic views of the distant mountains.
Goleta Beach Park has a pier.
Lake Los Carneros Park is a beautiful park to get out in nature.
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Longstanding local businesses in Old Town Goleta
Old Town Goleta, often called the Heritage District, is home to some of the longest-running family-owned businesses in the area. Coffee shops and Mexican restaurants are local staples, alongside thrift stores and auto shops. In May 2024, the City of Goleta began construction on Project Connect, which will improve road conditions and reduce flood risk in Old Town. The ongoing construction has driven away some customers due to noise and traffic, negatively impacting many businesses, but city officials are working to mitigate this effect. The project is projected to finish in 2026. Camino Real Marketplace features national retailers and grocery stores on the town's west side. The Marketplace also hosts the Goleta Farmer's Market every Sunday.
The South Coast Railroad Museum at the Historic Goleta Depot teaches visitors about the local history and technology of railroading. The museum hosts weekly and annual events like haunted train rides and trick-or-treating in October and a Christmas party in December. The Goleta Lemon Festival is another annual celebration held in September at Girsch Park; the event features many food vendors, a classic car show and a pie-eating contest.
The best pho in East Goleta Valley is located at Noodle City.
Old Town Coffee is a popular social hub in East Goleta Valley.
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Traveling on U.S. Route 101
U.S. Route 101 bisects Goleta, leading 10 miles to Santa Barbara and 104 miles to Los Angeles. The Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District serves the community with local and regional bus routes. There is an extensive network of bike lanes and trails throughout the community, including pedestrian bridges over the 101; locals enjoy biking to the beach and enjoying the sunny weather. Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital is the closest medical center, though Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital is also 9 miles away. The Santa Barbara Airport is just outside the city’s borders, with direct flights to 12 destinations, including Los Angeles, Denver and Seattle.
Top-rated school districts and proximity to University of California Santa Barbara
School districts in Santa Barbara County are often split up by level. Goleta Union Elementary School District earns an A-minus from Niche and features several top-rated elementary schools. Middle and high schools are organized within the Santa Barbara Unified School District, which earns an A from Niche. Dos Pueblos High is a sought-after institution with its own construction and engineering academies.
The University of California Santa Barbara is just south of Goleta on the Pacific Coast and offers over 200 majors. The school is best known for its top-notch research facilities and STEM programs.
Welcome to Ellwood Elementary School.
Kellogg Elementary School.
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Annual crime reports from the Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office
Goleta is patrolled by the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office. According to an annual report released by the Sheriff’s Office, Goleta specifically saw a roughly 14% decrease in property crimes and a 14% increase in violent crimes from 2022 to 2023. According to FBI data, violent and property crime rates in 2023 were generally well below statewide and national rates.
Sunny California climate and wildfire risk
Goleta experiences warm, sunny weather year-round. Though temperatures can climb over 100 degrees in the summer, areas near the coast have a marginally cooler climate. Low-elevation areas are also at high risk of flooding during severe rainfall, and homeowners in FEMA-designated flood zones are required to purchase flood insurance. Areas north of the highway are also at moderate to high risk of wildfires. The Santa Barbara County Fire Department serves the community in the event of an emergency and helps prevent fires by managing vegetation and educating locals.
Ride your bike to the beach in Goleta.
Goleta has many lush gardens.
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Written By
Andi Sink
Photography Contributed By
Joseph Palacios
Video By
Austin Lewis
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Colleen Beall,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Goleta, CA sell after 30 days on the market compared to the national average of 53 days. The median sale price for homes in Goleta, CA over the last 12 months is $1,350,000, consistent with the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
An upstairs single level 4 bedroom condo! The spacious 1,300 sq ft floor plan has an updated kitchen, dining area and generous living room, all with plenty of natural light + a generous front balcony. The primary bedroom has it's own balcony, walk-in closets and ensuite bathroom, in addition to 3 additional bedrooms and hall bath. The 4th bedroom currently has double doors to the living space,
Outstanding value with rental income potential, this charming single-level Goleta property offers flexibility and opportunity. Beyond the white picket fence sits a beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home plus a thoughtfully designed studio (garage conversion) with full kitchen and bath, totaling 1,578 sq ft. The main home is super clean, move-in ready, and ready for cosmetic updates.
Randy Freed & Kellie ClenetBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Welcome to this stunning single-level home offering three bedrooms plus an office (or optional fourth bedroom), with over 2,800 square feet of beautifully designed living space. Built in 2001 and extensively remodeled, this residence showcases timeless materials, elevated craftsmanship, and modern functionality, creating a refined yet highly livable environment ideal for everyday comfort and
Land owned, no space rent. Welcome to the new Rancho Estates, a single family Manufactured Home Condo Community. Amazing location and opportunity to own a slice of direct beach access property today! Lot size is 2,833 square feet, parallelogram shape. Manufactured Home is a 1963 ''fixer'' or ''pull-out'' replacement, decision is up to buyer, after the close of escrow. Community pool, clubhouse
Welcome to your dream retreat nestled atop a picturesque 22-acre lot on North Fairview Avenue. Journey through a charming neighborhood adorned with bespoke homes until you reach the entrance gate, marking the threshold to this remarkable property. Ascend the hill along a mixture of paved, gravel, and dirt roads, effortlessly leading you to the pinnacle where the enchanting 22-acre parcel awaits.
Welcome to your dream retreat nestled atop a picturesque 22-acre lot on North Fairview Avenue. Journey through a charming neighborhood adorned with bespoke homes until you reach the entrance gate, marking the threshold to this remarkable property. Ascend the hill along a mixture of paved, gravel, and dirt roads, effortlessly leading you to the pinnacle where the enchanting 22-acre parcel awaits.
An upstairs single level 4 bedroom condo! The spacious 1,300 sq ft floor plan has an updated kitchen, dining area and generous living room, all with plenty of natural light + a generous front balcony. The primary bedroom has it's own balcony, walk-in closets and ensuite bathroom, in addition to 3 additional bedrooms and hall bath. The 4th bedroom currently has double doors to the living space,
Set within the coveted Rancho Embarcadero enclave, just moments from the exclusive Ritz-Carlton Bacara, this extraordinary estate captures the essence of refined Santa Barbara living—where privacy, scale, and resort-caliber amenities converge. Behind a serene setting, the property unfolds into a private retreat complete with a championship-style tennis court, sun-drenched pool, and spa, evoking
Steven HellerBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Outstanding value with rental income potential, this charming single-level Goleta property offers flexibility and opportunity. Beyond the white picket fence sits a beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath home plus a thoughtfully designed studio (garage conversion) with full kitchen and bath, totaling 1,578 sq ft. The main home is super clean, move-in ready, and ready for cosmetic updates.
Randy Freed & Kellie ClenetBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Tons of potential! Month to month leases on this 6-unit multifamily in prime Goleta with strong rental demand and future upside. Each 2BD/1BA unit offers efficient layouts with patios or decks and mountain views. Amenities include garages with storage, on-site laundry, and ample parking. Located near UCSB, Old Town, and major employers, this property benefits from consistent tenant demand. All
10-acre unique El Capitan Ranch offering. Exclusive coastal gated community with access to a private beach. The 4500-sf contemporary ranch home is also privately gated and features 5 bedrooms and 5 baths, including a guest suite and media/game room. It is open, light, and bright, with vaulted ceilings, chef's kitchen, butler's pantry, 3000-bottle temperature-controlled wine room, solar w/battery
Kerry MormannBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Welcome to this ALL age CONDO conversion community close to UCSB, beaches and shopping! 2-bedroom, 2-bath home offers an open and spacious floor plan with newer interior paint and carpet. Recent upgrades include a remodeled kitchen and bathrooms, hardwood flooring, and updated finishes throughout. All appliances are included, ready for you to enjoy from day one! Home is on a permanent foundation
4.53 CAP (26/27 Sch. Yr.) Spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bathroom single-family residence located on Sabado Tarde in Isla Vista, just minutes from the University of California, Santa Barbara and one street from the ocean. The home features a large kitchen with updated appliances and a well-thought-out floor plan offering generously sized bedrooms throughout. A second-floor landing provides a versatile
Welcome to this stunning single-level home offering three bedrooms plus an office (or optional fourth bedroom), with over 2,800 square feet of beautifully designed living space. Built in 2001 and extensively remodeled, this residence showcases timeless materials, elevated craftsmanship, and modern functionality, creating a refined yet highly livable environment ideal for everyday comfort and
Welcome home to this beautiful and conveniently located condominium in the serene Hideaway community. This one-bedroom, one-bath residence with contemporary finishes offers 781 square feet of thoughtful living space, featuring gorgeous hardwood floors, granite countertops, high ceilings and fresh interior paint throughout. The home includes a private one-car garage, washer/dryer in unit and a
Bartron Real Est GroupBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Conveniently located duplex living with access to downtown IV, UCSB, beaches, parks, public transport and views of the coastal mountains from the backyard. 3 beds, 1 bath with vinyl plank flooring throughout, provided stove and refrigerator, off street parking. Applications required
If you’ve been looking for today’s sophistication mixed with a timeless California Bungalow style, you’ll love Hollister Village. Our new luxurious apartment community is ready to pamper you like never before. You’ll appreciate the tranquility of scenic Goleta — one of the best places to live in the Santa Barbara area. This resort-inspired atmosphere has the upscale amenities and contemporary
To view please contact the owner directly, not the listing agent. Delia (805) 451-5206 or dpineda0746@icloud.com. One room for rent in a beautiful North Goleta house. Owner looking for a mature/honest female. Rent includes all utilities and wi-fi. The room is fully furnished and you willl have your own bathroom and your own refrigerator and washer and dryer to wash your clothes. Bring your own
Live in one of the friendliest apartments in Goleta, CA and surround yourself with beautiful landscaping, modern homes, and resort-style amenities. With easy access to US-101 and Hollister Ave, Cortona Point Apartments is just minutes away from Downtown Goleta as well as all of the shopping, dining and entertainment that nearby Santa Barbara has to offer.Cortona Point Apartments offers
Available 3/1/2026 - Located in the highly desirable Village at Los Carneros, this newer 3-bdrm, 3-ba home offers a rare combination of modern comfort, community amenities, and an unbeatable Goleta location. Built in 2017 and thoughtfully maintained, the home features approximately 1,503 sq ft of living space, a private front patio, central A/C and heat, and a 2-car garage with Tesla charger. The
Dan CrawfordBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Come live at Tropicana Villas Upperclassmen Apartments close to the UCSB campus and the beach.It’s easy to move in. You don’t have to buy, move or store furniture. Our 2-bedroom/2-bath apartments come fully furnished. Lease by the bed OR rent a whole apartment. Move in with friends or we’ll help you find roommates. Choose a 10-month lease so you don’t have to pay rent over the summer. And
Welcome to this charming 4 bedroom, 1.5 bath home offering comfort, character, and exceptional outdoor living. The spacious living room creates an inviting atmosphere, while the thoughtfully updated kitchen and bathroom blend modern finishes with everyday functionality. Enjoy year-round comfort with air conditioning, ceiling fans, and a cozy gas fireplace. Generously sized bedrooms include a
An exciting new chapter begins as soon as you take your pick from our one-, two-, or three-bedroom apartments. Life's essential amenities and extra comforts are given from the get-go, providing a canvas you are free to personalize as you see fit. Some of these highlights include a chef-inspired gourmet kitchen, a private patio, as well a lovely full-size front-loading washer/dryer. You will be
Spacious 3 bedroom 2 bath unit with fireplace, private laundry, great kitchen with doors opening to nice patio, shared 1 car garage, laundry room, front patio garden area. Excellent condition . Access to pool and tennis. Nice sunny location. Dog / cat ok - Pool and Tennis access.Available February 1st, 2026
An exciting new chapter begins as soon as you take your pick from our one-, two-, or three-bedroom apartments. Life's essential amenities and extra comforts are given from the get-go, providing a canvas you are free to personalize as you see fit. Some of these highlights include a chef-inspired gourmet kitchen, a private patio, as well a lovely full-size front-loading washer/dryer. You will be
Amazing Goleta one bedroom one bath unit available now! This is a very nice sized one bedroom one bath that has been highly updated. The open floor plan is very inviting and it is open and bright with plenty of natural light. The open kitchen has a full sized refrigerator and stove/oven with amazing counter space. The floors are tile throughout and the bedroom has a nice sized closet. The
As a home base, One Mosaic is a launching point for a full life at UCSB and experiencing Santa Barbara. The campus is a 10-minute walk or 5-minute bike ride away. Iconic Isla Vista beaches, social life and restaurants are steps outside our modern apartments.
Set in the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains, Eastern Goleta Valley is around 5 miles west Santa Barbara. It has a low-key beach-town vibe and isn’t as densely populated as its high-profile neighbor. “In Goleta, you’ve got all the amenities of Santa Barbara; you’re close to the beach, shops, everything you want, but at a much lower price point,” says Keller Williams agent Caleb Overton, a resident of the area since 1999. Goleta has a good school system and is rich in natural beauty and green space.
There is a slight diversity of housing in East Goleta Valley, which is mostly single-family, with pockets of condos and townhomes. “You’re hitting around the $1.3 million mark here; it’s closer to the $1.8 million market in Santa Barbara,” Overton says. “A lot of the inventory was built in the 1950s and '60s, all the way up to the 1980s, and then you’ve got new construction.” Homes in East Goleta Valley include mostly stucco ranch-style houses, cottages and Spanish-inspired homes. Single-family pricing is between $900,000 for about 1,400 square feet needing renovation and over $5 million for something larger and fully updated. Condos and townhomes are priced between $600,000 and $2 million. “The proximity to the university makes this a great area for investors because you have a huge supply of people looking to rent in the area,” Overton says.
Families with children in Eastern Goleta Valley are served by Goleta Union Elementary School District, Santa Barbara Unified and San Marcos Unified School District, which earn an A-minus, A and A-plus from Niche, respectively. All three schools in the public-school pipeline earn an A from Niche. Foothill Elementary is in the top 10% of all public elementary schools in the state, according to Niche. Goleta Valley Junior High School is the second-best middle school in the Santa Barbara area. San Marcos High School has career technical education in hospitality, entertainment, health science and product development, among other programs.
Eastern Goleta Valley is just east of the University of California, Santa Barbara, a major employer in the area known for its science and engineering programs.
The city of Goleta keeps residents active and engaged with several signature events each year. The Goleta Valley Historical Society’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July is one of the biggest annual events, attracting adults and children of all ages. Neighbors gather in August for Goleta’s Dam Dinner, a free event with local food trucks where people eat and enjoy beautiful views of Lake Los Carneros and the mountains. The city’s signature event is the Goleta Lemon Festival, which takes place each September at Girsh Park. A pie-eating contest, classic car show and vendor booths are among the festival highlights.
East Goleta Valley has unpaved walking trails and paved bike paths perfect for hiking, biking and dog walking. More Mesa Beach is one of the most popular outdoor spaces in the region. Sitting on the Pacific coast, the narrow strip of sand mostly disappears at high tide and is only accessible by a steep stairway down from the cliffs. Tucker's Grove Park is an option further inland known as a gathering place for picnics; the trail following San Antonio Creek is another popular spot. Rhoads Park is a much smaller park, just over an acre in size, with a playground and benches. The neighborhood also has a lot of designated green spaces like Tarragona, Tabano Hollow and University Circle open space.
There are a few commercial business districts in East Goleta Valley, including Calle Real, which runs adjacent to U.S. Route 101. There is an Albertsons and Trader Joe’s for stocking up on groceries and essentials. The Calle Real Shopping Center has a few dining options. Backyard Bowls is an eco-friendly health food option offering acai bowls and smoothies, and Meum Fan Thai Café has a laid-back atmosphere with great drunken noodles. South on Hollister Avenue, Crushcakes & Cafe is locally owned and operated since 2008. They serve scratch-made breakfast, lunch, coffee and cupcakes.
Eastern Goleta Valley is situated on the 101, which runs north to the Bay Area and south through Santa Barbara, about a 10-minute drive, and then south to Los Angeles. The Santa Barbara Airport is about 4 miles west via the 101 or Ward Memorial Boulevard, and airport noise is a consideration on the west side of town. Most residents have cars, but bus stops along Hollister and Fairview avenues are operated by the Metropolitan Transit District.
Set near the mountains with thousands of acres of natural areas, wildfire risk is real in Eastern Goleta Valley. The Santa Barbara County Fire Department monitors the area and operates an online and text alert system to keep residents aware. Increasingly hot summers capped by dry winds and droughts are a risk to homebuyers in the region.
Property Mix - Square Feet
Goleta Has More Owners
Demographics
Total Population
33,837
Median Age
38
Population Density
6 ppl/acre
Population under 18
22.4%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
18%
On par with the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$109,880
Significantly above the national average
$79,601
Average Household Income
$132,543
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
88.7%
College Graduates
50.5%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
21%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
69.6%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
16''
Average Winter Low Temperature
41°F
Average Summer High Temperature
74°F
Annual Snowfall
0''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®®
47/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®®
8/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
