$1,654,527Average Value$922Average Price per Sq Ft37Homes 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
Leslie Miller,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Goleta, CA sell after 36 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Goleta, CA over the last 12 months is $1,325,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
NEW LISTING! Welcome to this beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, ideally situated on a desirable corner lot within a quiet cul de sac in one of Goleta's most sought after El Encanto Heights neighborhoods. Known for its larger lots, established character, minimal through traffic, and convenient access to shopping, schools, UCSB, Highway 101, and Goleta's beautiful coastline. Enjoy the
Enjoy exceptional privacy in this ground-floor, single-level end unit, ideally situated with no neighbors on one side and conveniently located near parking. This home is situated in the vibrant 55+ community of Encina Royale. The spacious living room flows seamlessly into the kitchen and den (or second bedroom) and opens to a private patio filled with natural light, perfect for enjoying the
Tucked inside the gated Eucalyptus Grove community in Goleta's Ellwood neighborhood, this recently renovated ground-level 1 bed / 1 bath condo delivers privacy, natural light, and updated amenities -- all in one. The bedroom features a spacious walk-in closet and direct patio access via slider, while the open living room also flows out to the front patio -- a setup that just works for the Goleta
Avi BeckerBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
NEW LISTING! Welcome to this beautifully maintained 3 bedroom, 2 bath home, ideally situated on a desirable corner lot within a quiet cul de sac in one of Goleta's most sought after El Encanto Heights neighborhoods. Known for its larger lots, established character, minimal through traffic, and convenient access to shopping, schools, UCSB, Highway 101, and Goleta's beautiful coastline. Enjoy the
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
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
Desirable Lake Los Carneros five-bedroom, three-bath home offering a spacious and versatile floorplan with numerous upgrades throughout. The inviting living room features vaulted open-beam ceilings, rich wood flooring, and a fireplace, while the kitchen is appointed with granite countertops, oak cabinetry, double ovens, and a downdraft cooktop. Additional features include double-pane Milgard
Garrett McCawBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Welcome to Winslowe Collection - a contemporary end-unit townhome completed in 2019. This bright, south-facing residence offers 4 bedrooms and 3.5 baths, including a rare ground-floor bedroom with an en suite bath and French doors to a private paver patio - ideal as a home office or guest suite. An attached 450 sq ft 2-car garage provides direct interior access. The efficient all-electric home
This inviting Goleta condo blends thoughtful updates with comfortable living. The updated kitchen features granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and abundant storage. Wood floors and fresh interior paint create a move-in-ready feel. Enjoy mountain views from both the kitchen and the primary bedroom. The home offers two bedrooms and two full bathrooms, along with an in-unit combination
Stephanie YoungBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
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
Opportunities like this rarely come to market so close to Santa Barbara. This versatile AG-II property offers the combination buyers are constantly searching for but seldom find: two residences, a permitted 30' x 40' shop with 240V power, usable acreage, and tremendous flexibility for agricultural, equestrian, business, hobby farm, or multi-generational living. AG-II zoning is intended to support
Anthony BordinBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Welcome to this beautifully updated and well-appointed 4-bedroom, 3 bath home in the heart of Goleta. This thoughtfully remodeled residence features a spacious and functional floor plan, including a large great room with a cozy fireplace, formal and informal dining areas, and a stunning new gourmet kitchen. Enjoy white oak style modern cabinets, ample countertops, a breakfast bar, and abundant
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 effortless coastal living in the desirable Eucalyptus Grove community of Goleta! This beautifully appointed single-level 2-bedroom, 2-bath condominium offers approximately 960 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, blending comfort, style, and convenience in one of Santa Barbara County's most sought-after locations. Step inside to discover soaring high ceilings, recessed
Enjoy exceptional privacy in this ground-floor, single-level end unit, ideally situated with no neighbors on one side and conveniently located near parking. This home is situated in the vibrant 55+ community of Encina Royale. The spacious living room flows seamlessly into the kitchen and den (or second bedroom) and opens to a private patio filled with natural light, perfect for enjoying the
Beautiful 1bd/1ba units in the heart of Isla Vista. Includes access to an on-site laundry room and a courtyard! Assigned parking available for an additional fee. Renters’ Insurance Required. Rates are shown for a period that is shy of a full year to accommodate the scholastic schedule. Pursuant to Santa Barbara County regulations, a minimum one-year term lease will be offered to qualified
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
WELCOME TO THE FUTURE OF OFF-CAMPUS LIVING! OUR BRAND-NEW COMMUNITY NEAR UCSB OFFERS MODERN AESTHETICS AND ORGANIC SIMPLICITY. ENJOY SPACIOUS, WELL-APPOINTED HOUSES WITH PRIVATE BACKYARDS AND PATIOS.
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
Beautiful modern units with granite counter tops, stone tile floors, stainless-steel appliances and a 50” flat screen TV. There’s even an on-site laundry room. Off-street parking available for an additional fee. Renters’ Insurance Required. Rates are shown for a period that is shy of a full year to accommodate the scholastic schedule. Pursuant to Santa Barbara County regulations, a minimum
Capri Apartments offers premium student housing in Isla Vista, CA, just minutes from the University of California Santa Barbara and SBCC campuses. Our community is designed specifically for students looking for off-campus housing near UCSB, combining affordability, convenience, and modern amenities. Our fully furnished apartments include high-speed internet, full kitchens with
Roomy studios located right by The Loop in the heart of IV by the beach! Off-street parking available. Renters’ Insurance Required. Rates are shown for a period that is shy of a full year to accommodate the scholastic schedule. Pursuant to Santa Barbara County regulations, a minimum one-year term lease will be offered to qualified applicant(s) at a different rate than advertised here.
Tropicana Student Housing offers a vibrant student living experience just minutes from University of California, Santa Barbara and close to Santa Barbara City College. Our communities combine the convenience of residence hall living with the comfort of a fully supported student lifestyle, creating an ideal environment for academic success, personal growth, and connection.Choose from three
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
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
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.
The Wave is offering 1 bedroom / 1bathroom apartments in a centrally located Isla Vista community.The apartments feature vinyl plank flooring throughout, updated counter-tops, and full size appliances. There is the option to include a dedicated parking space. Park your car here and walk to the beach- it's only five blocks from Del Playa access.These are fully furnished 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
Rental Home Trends
Number of Homes for Rent
31
Median Rent
$5,450
Median Single Family Home Rent
$4,325
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$6,900
Median Townhouse Rent
$7,450
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$7,450
Median Condo Rent
$3,875
Median 2 Bedroom Condo Rent
$3,863
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
$79,597
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
Fairly bikeable
Bikeability®
40/ 100
Somewhat walkable
Walkability®
30/ 100
Limited public transit
Transit®
30/ 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and 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.
