$2,435,325Average Value$1,412Average Price per Sq Ft9Homes For Sale
Residential neighborhood with mountain and ocean views
A few miles south of downtown Santa Barbara, Alta Mesa is set in the hills overlooking the pristine blue harbor, just north of neighborhoods like West Mesa and East Mesa, which sit directly on the coast. First developed in the mid-20th century as a bedroom community for post-war veterans with the help of G.I. loans, this neighborhood is now prized for its recently renovated homes and views of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. “When Alta Mesa was developed, there was not high value in being near or having views of the ocean because it tends to be much more foggy than other parts of the city,” says Ruth Ann Bowe, an associate broker with Village Properties. “Obviously, in today’s world, beach access and water views are extremely sought after, and being on the hill provides many of the homes with gorgeous views.” Residents can get outside and explore the neighborhood’s 230-acre Elings Park or enjoy one of many locally owned eateries at the Mesa Shopping Center.
Capture the stunning diversity of homes nestled on Alta Mesa's hillside.
Discover a row of charming single-family homes in the picturesque Alta Mesa neighborhood.
you can ride your bike to the beach in Alta Mesa.
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Midcentury ranch-style homes and newly renovated properties
Alta Mesa's steep, winding streets are lined with well-maintained sidewalks, as well as eucalyptus and palm trees. Most of the neighborhood's oldest homes were built in the 1950s and ''60s, including ranch-style homes and cottages with vinyl and stucco exteriors in beachy colors like pale blue and off-white. Many homes have been remodeled or rebuilt in the Mediterranean and Spanish Revival styles the city is known for. Prices for a three-bedroom cottage begin around $1.3 million, while a renovated Spanish-inspired house with three bedrooms can cost about $4 million. "Surprisingly, the market is doing well compared to the last few years, and even better than before Covid. It's a serious sellers' market because the inventory is low, and sales are increasing by the month," Bowe says.
Explore a modern single-family ranch home in Alta Mesa.
Your next home could be in Alta Mesa.
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Santa Barbara schools with specialized magnet programs
Local students may attend Washington Elementary, which receives an A rating from Niche and offers a Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) magnet program; GATE students may choose between a cluster model or individualized study, both focusing on social-emotional development and academic growth. The B-plus-rated La Cumbre Junior High offers after-school cooking classes, a weight training room and a skate park, while students at the A-rated Santa Barbara High can enroll in the Multimedia Design, Culinary Arts or Computer Science programs. Santa Barbara City College is just east of Alta Mesa. “There are students that live near there in the apartments or out by Isla Vista,” Bowe says. “But it doesn’t impact the neighborhood much at all.”
Education comes first at Washington Elementary School Santa Barbara.
Students love to learn at La Cumbre Junior High School in Santa Barbara.
Santa Barbara Senior High School features many athletic opportunities.
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Wide range of outdoor activities at the 230-acre Elings Park
Elings Park, the largest community-supported nonprofit public park in the country, makes up the western edge of Alta Mesa. Spanning 230 acres, the park features a disc golf course and a remote-controlled auto racetrack and is home to several senior and adult athletic teams, from softball to lacrosse; the 9 miles of biking and hiking trails here offer stunning ocean views. Pocket parks around Alta Mesa include the 1-acre Hilda McIntyre Ray Park, which offers a bright red playground for little kids. On the community’s southern edge, the Mesa Harmony Garden is a community garden attached to the Holy Cross Church and tended to by local volunteers who provide fresh produce to locals in need.
Elings Park offers a charming and tranquil area where visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
There are some great Dog Parks in Alta Mesa.
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Local eateries at the Mesa Shopping Center
On Alta Mesa's southern border, the Mesa Shopping Center has a variety of local fast-casual eateries, grocery stores like Vons, and small shops like the Mesa Bookstore, which sells used tomes and hosts readings by local authors. Owned and operated since 1984, Mesa Café serves breakfast and lunch with an outdoor patio and renovated dining room. Across the street from the main shopping center, Mesa Verde offers a flavorful vegan Mediterranean food made from local organic produce, while Mesa Produce specializes in regional organic fruits and vegetables. The neighborhood's just over a mile from State Street, Santa Barbara's culinary, shopping and social hub, which has recently been converted to a pedestrian promenade between Sola and Haley streets.
Alta Mesa is home to the Mesa Shopping Center.
Alta Mesa has a wide selection of food spots.
Alta Mesa is home to many boutique shops.
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Taking the bus downtown
U.S. Route 101 lines the Pacific coastline, running just north of Alta Mesa and connecting residents to Los Angeles, 96 miles east. The Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District’s bus system includes Route 4, which takes local passengers 2 miles north to downtown along Carillo Street, and Route 5, which travels Cliff Drive the 3 miles west to La Cumbre Shopping Plaza. Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital is 3 miles away, while Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is 10 miles away, with direct flights to major hubs like Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO).
Get around town on the bus line in Alta Mesa.
Alta Mesa is close to the 101 freeway.
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Annual outdoor concerts showcasing local artists
Held each September at Elings Park, Local Vibes is a small outdoor concert festival featuring local rock and Americana bands and musicians. During the day-long event, folks can spread out on the grass and discover new artists while enjoying bites from on-site food trucks.
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.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Are you familiar with the Alta Mesa neighborhood?
to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Alta Mesa
US
Homicide
3
4
Sexual Assault
4
4
Assault with Weapon
3
4
Robbery
3
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
4
4
Larceny
4
4
Crime Score
3
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Alta Mesa Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Alta Mesa, Santa Barbara sell after 42 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Alta Mesa, Santa Barbara over the last 12 months is $2,300,000, up 12% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
This enchanting 1929 Spanish-style residence captures picturesque mountain views and embodies Santa Barbara's signature architectural lineage. Offering three bedrooms, an office, two baths, and 2,018 square feet, this serene and private retreat balances refined living with easy access to beaches and Santa Barbara's many restaurants, theaters and shops.A classic sandstone stairway with wrought
Katherine PetersonBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Introducing ''Casa Paloma'' a meticulously redefined 1983 Spanish residence offering 2,824 sq. ft. of elevated living on the Mesa. This 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home has been completely transformed with bespoke finishes. The kitchen showcases warm Calacatta Viola marble paired with Sub-Zero refrigeration and Wolf appliances, while each space embodies a refined, bohemian aesthetic. ''Casa Paloma'' is a
Ricardo MunozBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Positioned on one of the Mesa's most coveted streets, this exceptional residence offers breathtaking, unobstructed ocean, coastline & island views with no wires to interrupt the horizon. The dramatic living room is framed by floor-to-ceiling windows that capture the sweeping panoramic vistas; a fireplace & wet bar enhance the room's warm, with French doors opening to an expansive view deck. The
Live the Resort Lifestyle in this newly reimagined single-level estate on 1/4 private acre on Santa Barbara's coveted Upper West Mesa. Featuring a main residence, a newly built ADU/guest house, a sparkling pool and beautifully landscaped grounds - all sustainably powered by a full solar array - this property is truly one of a kind. Located on a quiet street minutes from the beach, Douglas
One of the nicest units at the Santa Barbara Highlands! Light-filled, recently renovated 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath condo tucked in one of the most private locations of the complex. Soaring cathedral ceilings and abundant natural light highlight the open-concept living and dining areas, complete with a cozy living room fireplace--perfect for relaxed living and effortless entertaining. Upgraded finishes
Stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bath ocean-view home, fully remodeled and tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac in the highly coveted Mesa neighborhood. This light-filled residence offers seamless indoor-outdoor living with expansive ocean views, modern finishes, and a thoughtfully designed floor plan. Recent upgrades include a complete renovation with high-end materials, updated kitchen and baths, and refined
Julian MichalowskiOmega Real Estate and Investments
Beautifully remodeled ocean view three bedroom two bath home, set in a private location yet close to everything Santa Barbara has to offer. Nothing left undone in this meticulously built home, with high end finishes and appliances. The home includes a Nest thermostat and smoke detectors, a Navien tankless water heater, and water softener/purification system. Abundant natural light accents every
Tucked away at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac in the Highland Complex, this beautifully updated condo offers a relaxed, low-maintenance lifestyle near the Honda Valley Park, offering acres of peaceful walking trails. Light pours into the home through soaring ceilings, creating an airy, welcoming atmosphere throughout. Freshly painted and thoughtfully refreshed with all-new flooring, kitchen
Cole RobbinsBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Welcome to the best The Highlands have to offer! This highly sought after 2 bed 2 bath, 1120 sq. ft., move in ready condo is looking for its next owner. New luxury vinyl downstairs and new carpet upstairs. Freshly painted and a newer stove has been installed. Close to the community pool, hot tub, clubhouse and sauna. Enjoy the Mesa lifestyle for under 1 million.
William C. Turner IIIDouglas Elliman of California
Available Jun-Oct, 2026 (3-4 months preferred). Furnished Alta Mesa Furnished Rental - Located near downtown Santa Barbara and the Mesa, this remodeled 3BR + TV room, 2BA home features an open floor plan, walls of glass, and ocean peeks from the living and dining areas. Enjoy seamless indoor-outdoor living with a private fenced yard and patio. Just minutes from shops, dining, and the beach. No
Arroyo House – Ocean View Student HousingArroyo House is a clean, quiet student home in the Santa Barbara foothills with ocean views, large shared spaces, and outdoor decks.Designed for students who want a respectful, organized place to live and study — not a party house.Features• Ocean views• Furnished shared rooms• Large kitchen + living room• Outdoor decks &
Enjoy the wonderful Mesa lifestyle from this dramatic wood and glass contemporary. Take in the breathtaking views of the ocean, islands, and mountains from the floor to ceiling glass. The home has an open floor plan with beautiful updated kitchen, hardwood floors, wrap around view decks for entertaining. There are three large bedrooms each with private updated bath. Primary suite is on the entry
BEST SUNSET VIEWS IN SANTA BARBARAOnly 6 blocks to the beach with 180 degree ocean views from the kitchen, living room and bedroom, this apartment invites you to watch sailboats coasting by and even watch for whales from every room in your home. :) You can see more than 50 miles away on a clear day....all the Channel Islands are visible from here.QUIET & PEACEFUL BLUFF TOP
Fully Furnished Lower Unit - Available May 20th - August 31st A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience 1522 La Coronilla - offered for the first time in 20 years. This extraordinary 2bd/1bth retreat captures breathtaking 280 panoramic views spanning the Santa Barbara Harbor, Mesa, coastline, and beyond. A truly unforgettable summer escape, perfectly positioned to enjoy the 4th of July
Aidan WilliamsKeller Williams Realty Santa Barbara
Welcome to 1021 San Andres Street! This is a bright, upper-level apartment offering an exceptional amount of space and storage in a convenient Santa Barbara location.This light-filled unit features multiple large windows, a spacious living room, and a dedicated dining area that flows into an ample kitchen equipped with a dishwasher. Storage is a standout feature, including a walk-in
Available Now! Stunning 2BR Corner Condo with Mountain Views, Garage and In-Unit Laundry. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views from this beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bath, three-story corner end-unit condo. With abundant natural light and a unique multi-level layout, this home offers both comfort and privacy.One bedroom is located on its own private level with an en-suite bathroom, making it
Featuring a single-family condominium completely furnished 2 bedrooms with high ceilings and private full bathrooms, a spacious living room with built in pull out bed in the couch (3rd bed in the unit), newly painted downstairs, a fireplace, and hardwood floors throughout the unit for a perfect Mesa experience. Large dining areas with airy layout with plenty of new ceiling lights,generous
Brett BuschbomBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
$10,500 per month
4 Beds
3 Baths
''The Barn''- ''Stunning, Newly Remodeled Barn-Inspired Home, with Breathtaking Ocean Views on the Mesa. This historic furnished (can be unfurnished) property blends modern luxury with timeless barn-style architecture, offering warmth, character, and sophistication at every turn. Step inside to gorgeous new hardwood floors, an open-concept living space filled with natural light, and seamless
This Spanish-style, fully-furnished home offers a perfect blend of elegance and comfort, with every detail carefully curated for an exceptional living experience. Enjoy breathtaking 180-degree Santa Barbara views from multiple vantage points throughout the residence. The primary suite features a walk-in closet and a private patio with stunning ocean views. The interior is adorned with tasteful
Michelle KingKing & Company
$5,500 per month
2 Beds
2 Baths
2,236 Sq Ft
Only available Jan - May. Rising Sun is a Furnished Vacation Rental, STARTING at 5,500 and varying per month; NO LONG TERM TENANTS. Located on the Mesa, the location offers elevated views of Santa Barbara, quiet and peaceful surroundings yet still maintains close proximity to the beaches and shopping, restaurants and bars. The living room has a large sectional sofa facing the windows so you can
Jennie StraitCasago
$7,500 per month
2 Beds
3 Baths
NOT A YEARLY RENTAL. ''Ocean View Villa'' Fully furnished ocean view villa available ONLY as a 30 day min. CHECK OUR WEBSITE for which months are still AVAILABLE. Rates vary based on season. Perfectly situated on the Mesa to enjoy the most spectacular, unobstructed ocean and island views. With 2 bedrooms plus bonus media room with sleeper sofa, 3 full bathrooms, this Spanish-style townhome is
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