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Santa Barbara, CA Homes for Rent

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  • /22

    $14,500 Per Month

    • 5 Beds
    • 4 Baths
    • House for Rent

    122 Santa Rosa Place, Santa Barbara, CA 93109

    Available Aug. 15 or Sept 1, unfurn or furnished. Enjoy the Santa Barbara beach lifestyle from this beautifully appointed 4BD/4BA Mediterranean home on the Mesa, just moments from Shoreline Park, Leadbetter Beach, the Harbor, and Mesa shopping and dining. Features include soaring ceilings, wood floors, a fireplace, and a gourmet kitchen with custom cabinetry, premium appliances, and center

    Agent Photo

    DeAnn Rochelle

    Keller Williams Realty Santa Barbara

    122 Santa Rosa Place, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
  • /51

    Starting at $4,400 Per Month

    • 2 - 3 Beds

    425 Garden, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    Discover elevated eco-friendly coastal living at the brand new El Jardin Apartments, in a prime Santa Barbara location. Conveniently located in the heart of the city, this modern green-certified apartment community blends sustainable design with comfort and effortless coastal living. Choose from our spacious two- and three-bedroom apartment homes featuring GE appliances, in-unit washer and dryer,

    El Jardin

    425 Garden, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • /29

    $9,850 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,463 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    4015 Lago Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93110

    Private and serene vintage Spanish home in Hope Ranch with breathtaking lake, Country Club, and mountain views. This single-level 2BD/2BA blends timeless charm with modern updates, featuring vaulted wood-beam ceilings, an elegant kitchen with high-end appliances, and stylishly remodeled baths. The covered porch and patio are perfect for entertaining or relaxing while enjoying the view. Lush 2/3

    Agent Photo

    DeAnn Rochelle

    Keller Williams Realty Santa Barbara

    4015 Lago Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93110
  • /50

    Starting at $5,500 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    825 De la Vina St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    825 De La Vina, where contemporary elegance meets timeless Santa Barbara charm. Nestled in the vibrant downtown district, this newly constructed four story community offers 21 thoughtfully designed studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences, each crafted to an exceptional living experience. Lease up set to start in June of 2025. Contact us now for more information!

    825 De la Vina St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • /33

    $19,500 Per Month

    • 3 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 2,320 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    1539 Shoreline Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93109

    Avail Furn in 2027 - MAY 1 - DEC 31st Only. 30 nt min. No Long Term Stays.Oceanfront Santa Barbara Cottage Perched on a stunning bluff top, this enchanting cottage captures the essence of Santa Barbara living. Lush gardens, a charming pergola, fire pit, and breathtaking sunset views set the scene for relaxation. Inside, enjoy custom finishes, 3 beds, 3 baths, and a walnut-paneled

    Agent Photo

    DeAnn Rochelle

    Keller Williams Realty Santa Barbara

    1539 Shoreline Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
  • /18

    Starting at $4,500 Per Month

    • 2 Beds

    1317 Punta Gorda St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103

    WELCOME TO YOUR BRAND-NEW TOWNHOME !!Brand new townhomes are perfect for a growing family. Featuring all brand-new stainless-steel appliances, open kitchen with a large center island, equipped with of drawers and cabinet space, granite counter tops and easy with elegant French doors to your own yard. Large windows along the kitchen and dining area filled with natural light. These upstairs

    1317 Punta Gorda Street

    1317 Punta Gorda St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
  • /6

    $3,850 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 1,000 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    2204 Parkway Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

    Charming 2 bedroom plus office and one bath Craftsman Cottage located nearby to Cottage Hospital, the De La Vina corridor shopping, restaurants and everything downtown. Updated kitchen and bathroom, hardwood floors, built in cabinets. washer & dryer. Sunny and light. Driveway parking for one car. Offered UNFURNISHED NP/NS Lot has 2 other separate units. Please DO NOT disturb tenants Or Drive into

    Agent Photo

    Janice Laney

    Keller Williams Realty Montecito

    2204 Parkway Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
  • /22

    Starting at $1,385 Per Month

    • 1 Bed

    543 1/2 Arroyo Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93109

    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 &

    The Arroyo House Student Living.

    543 1/2 Arroyo Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
  • /11

    $4,500 Per Month

    • 1 Bed
    • 1.5 Baths
    • House for Rent

    60 Crestview Ln, Santa Barbara, CA 93108

    Charming free standing cottage in gated area with 2 other homes. Ideally suited for one person. Built in 2019 it is newer and luxurious with vaulted ceilings and wood floors throughout, plus an open plan Living room with dining area and kitchen fit for any budding chef. Other amenities include a laundry room with storage, and a sunny balcony overlooking the landscaped grounds. Parking space for

    Agent Photo

    Janice Laney

    Keller Williams Realty Montecito

    60 Crestview Ln, Santa Barbara, CA 93108
  • /40

    Starting at $4,030 Per Month

    • 1 - 3 Beds

    6505 Sea Star Ct, Goleta, CA 93117

    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

    Arrive Los Carneros

    6505 Sea Star Ct, Goleta, CA 93117
  • /17

    $4,212 Per Month

    • Studio
    • 1 Bath
    • 300 Sq Ft
    • Furnished Studio-Santa Barbara - Calle Real

    4870 Calle Real, Santa Barbara, CA 93111

    Enjoy a fully furnished studio suite in our hotel at an affordable rate with free wi-fi, free utilities and free premium cable. Each studio suite has a full kitchen with full-size refrigerator, stovetop and microwave, and has a flexible workspace and plenty of storage. All our hotels are pet-friendly and have on-site guest laundry available. Plus, there are no long-term commitments and you can

    Furnished Studio-Santa Barbara - Calle Real

    4870 Calle Real, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
  • /24

    $4,500

    Total Monthly Price

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 925 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    2127 Red Rose Way, Santa Barbara, CA 93109

    Update: Open today Monday July 13, between 12:00 and 6:30 PM for tours. And again, on the 14th, 15th and 16th. Contact us by email for further information through this website. Available after July 24, 2036. Rent 4,200.00/month + Utilities 300.00/month - 4,500 total monthly cost - Cox High Speed Internet, SCE power, SB City water-sewer-trash and gardeners. Flagship Water Whole Home Filtration

    2127 Red Rose Way, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
  • /21

    Starting at $4,395 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    20-80 Oceano Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93109

    Welcome to Sea Cliff Apartment, Santa Barbara's premier beachfront community- where every day is a vacation! We are truly a hidden gem. Our newly remodeled living spaces have been said to be "quite simply, breathtaking" WE ARE THE CLOSEST PROPERTY TO LEADBETTER BEACH IN ALL OF SANTA BARBARA! YOU MUST SEE TO BELIEVE! This one-of-a-kind 27-unit property is conveniently located just steps from

    Sea Cliff Apartments

    20-80 Oceano Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
  • /16

    Starting at $3,650 Per Month

    • 2 Beds

    110 Bodega Ln, Santa Barbara, CA 93110

    Spacious two-story apartment offering two oversized bedrooms, full bathroom, and an open, light-filled layout. This is a completely renovated home with brand-new finishes and systems, distinctly different from a typical Santa Barbara apartment. Send us a message to know more and to book a personal tour with us! Furnished option available!

    110 Bodega Ln, Santa Barbara, CA 93110
  • /16

    Starting at $3,200 Per Month

    • Studio - 3 Beds

    219 E Haley St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    Alena on Haley puts You in the Center of Everything that MattersAt Alena on Haley, pristine Santa Barbara beaches are your neighbors; the sunrise over the Riviera is your alarm clock; and State Street is your playground. Our all-new luxury Santa Barbara apartments sit at the intersection of everything that makes Santa Barbara one of the world’s most coveted addresses.The

    Alena on Haley

    219 E Haley St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • /20

    Starting at $3,289 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    120 S Patterson Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93111

    Patterson Place offers a lush and landscaped apartment community that is uniquely positioned to provide you with the best of the Santa Barbara lifestyle. Our garden-style community offers residents the option to stay close to the city while being far away enough from its noise and busy streets.Within 10 minutes, you can reach some of the most prominent locations, from reputable employers

    Patterson Place

    120 S Patterson Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
  • /20

    Starting at $3,169 Per Month

    • 1 - 3 Beds

    122 Sumida Gardens Ln, Santa Barbara, CA 93111

    Welcome to Sumida Gardens Apartments! A green-certified community, offering beautiful one, two, and three-bedroom apartments for rent in Goleta, CA. Thoughtfully crafted with modern interiors and complemented by a wide array of on-site amenities, our homes are built to elevate your everyday living experience. Ideally located in the heart of Goleta, our community offers seamless commutes with

    Sumida Gardens Apartments

    122 Sumida Gardens Ln, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
  • /21

    Starting at $5,950 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    800 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    Experience Santa Barbara living at 800 Santa Barbara. Now offering furnished studios on a short term lease! This community is located on Santa Barbara St in Santa Barbara. The leasing team will assist you in finding your new place. Make your move to 800 Santa Barbara. Contact us or stop in to schedule a tour.

    800 Santa Barbara

    800 Santa Barbara St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • /2

    Starting at $4,950 Per Month

    • 3 Beds

    1524 Garden St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    1524 Garden St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • /20

    Starting at $2,820 Per Month

    • 1 - 2 Beds

    221 Hitchcock Way, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

    Welcome to Rancho Franciscan Apartments, a community where your comfort and convenience take center stage. We offer one and two-bedroom floor plans, outfitted with a range of exciting amenities, including a relaxing hot tub, a welcoming clubhouse, in-home features such as efficient appliances, and patios or balconies. Our beautiful senior apartments for rent in Santa Barbara, CA, near Old Mission

    Rancho Franciscan Senior Apartments

    221 Hitchcock Way, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
  • /20

    Starting at $3,400 Per Month

    • 1 Bed

    515 Red Rose Ln, Santa Barbara, CA 93109

    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

    Channel View Apartments

    515 Red Rose Ln, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
  • /18

    Starting at $2,525 Per Month

    • 1 Bed

    601 E Anapamu St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103

    Excellent downtown location, close to the Santa Barbara Bowl and the beach! Heated pool! Villa Flores is considered by many to be the most beautifully landscaped property in Santa Barbara with exotic palms, bird of paradise, fig trees and so much more. You'll be happy to come home!

    Villa Flores Apartments

    601 E Anapamu St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
  • /20

    Starting at $3,466 Per Month

    • 1 - 3 Beds

    60 Willow Springs Ln, Santa Barbara, CA 93117

    Welcome home to Willow Springs Apartments, a place where residents can find their inner peace and serenity while also embarking on a journey of adventure and discovery.Discover opportunities to connect within the community as you enjoy the tranquil waters of the outdoor pool and spa or breathe in fresh air during an outdoor exercise. Inside our 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments in Goleta,

    Willow Springs

    60 Willow Springs Ln, Santa Barbara, CA 93117
  • /14

    $2,475 Per Month

    • 1 Bed
    • 1 Bath
    • 300 Sq Ft
    • Unit B

    1815 San Andres St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    This property is available. Please inquire on this site to schedule a showing. Available 7/3! Updated studio unit located behind the main house on a lot with 3 other units. Completely self-sustained with in-unit laundry. Front loading washer/dryer provided, private water heater, heating AND cooling through the new split system. One parking spot is provided under the carport.The

    Unit B

    1815 San Andres St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • /11

    $9,650 Per Month

    • 4 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,600 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    869 Via Abajo, Santa Barbara, CA 93110

    Property Id: 36358Warm 4 Bedroom 2 bathroom with swimming pool and tennis court. Property is located on a quiet Culdisac. Very Large undevolped open area in Back yard. With an active creek in the winter months. Complete newly renovated inside and out.New Granite countertops Sink basins, new Tile throughout. New high effeciacy dual glazed windows With UV protection and Tempered glass,

    869 Via Abajo, Santa Barbara, CA 93110
  • /20

    $8,750 Per Month

    • 4 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 1,475 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    4905 Rhoads Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93111

    Property Id: 2313428Beautifully furnished, move-in-ready 4-bedroom home in a quiet Santa Barbara neighborhood, thoughtfully designed for comfortable mid-term living. Ideal for families remodeling their homes, corporate relocations, insurance-displacement housing, home purchase transitions, and professionals or families seeking high-quality temporary accommodations.Professionally

    4905 Rhoads Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
  • /15

    $5,995 Per Month

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,500 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    3935 Foothill Rd Unit 1, Santa Barbara, CA 93110

    Welcome to your new home in the charming Hope district of Santa Barbara, CA! This inviting property is perfect for those who appreciate convenience and comfort. Ideally situated, you'll find yourself just moments away from an array of delightful restaurants and shopping options, making everyday errands and dining out a breeze. Additionally, Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital is a short 9-minute drive

    3935 Foothill Rd Unit 1, Santa Barbara, CA 93110
  • /7

    $2,950 Per Month

    • 1 Bed
    • 1 Bath
    • Condo for Rent

    323 W Islay St Unit E, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    Property Id: 1779336Charming Top-Floor 1BD/1BA Apartment in Downtown Santa BarbaraWelcome to 323 W. Islay Street - a beautifully maintained building in a great Santa Barbara location! This bright and airy second-floor 1-bedroom, 1-bath apartment features new flooring, updated appliances. Large windows invite natural light and offer mountain views.Tenant amenities include

    323 W Islay St Unit E, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • /2

    $7,800 Per Month

    • 4 Beds
    • 3 Baths
    • 2,100 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    831 Palermo Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

    Property Id: 2260336Beautiful Hidden Valley Home conveniently located near bike paths that will take you to Arroyo Burro Beach, Mesa, downtown Santa Barbara and Goleta. Easy access to 101 freeway with only two traffic lights. The home has four bedrooms and three full bathrooms. One large bedroom has a private entrance, private patio, small kitchen and full bath. The home has a two-car

    831 Palermo Dr, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
  • /27

    $6,600

    Total Monthly Price

    • 3 Beds
    • 1.5 Baths
    • 1,300 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    1615 Olive St Unit B, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    Downtown Santa Barbara, COMPLETELY remodeled with new kitchen, 1.5 bathrooms, and 3 bedrooms. Offstreet parking and 2.5 car garage. Excellent for family or housemate shares.For more information, viewing and applications please contact David.Available now, 3-bedroom home located in the upper east side area of Santa Barbara on Olive street. Very near to Alice Keck-Park Gardens,

    1615 Olive St Unit B, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • /10

    $3,850

    Total Monthly Price

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • 840 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    124 W Pedregosa St Unit 1, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    Upgraded 2 bed 1 bath. New floors and paint. New front porch and deck and refrigerator. Great natural light throughout the apartment. Fireplace, shared laundry with 2 other units. Utilities included except WIFI/Cable.No smoking, friendly pet considered.

    124 W Pedregosa St Unit 1, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • /20

    $7,200

    Total Monthly Price

    • 4 Beds
    • 1.5 Baths
    • 1,550 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    1520 Bath St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    Ideally located just three blocks from State Street in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, this gorgeous 4 bedroom/1.5 bath home in a 1925 Craftsman duplex has just undergone an extensive renovation that combines delightful architectural details with everyday functionality.The sunny and spacious home has loads of old world charm, with a welcoming front porch, leaded glass double-paned

    1520 Bath St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • /17

    $6,950

    Total Monthly Price

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,826 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    2027 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

    Make this Mid State Street home your very own personal retreat. Offering Santa Barbara luxury with a beautiful kitchen complete with hardwood flooring. Imagine being able to take your meals on the outdoor deck area that is conveniently adjacent to the kitchen. From the patio, you can overlook the fully enclosed backyard. The backyard itself offers a wonderful green space setting. Also

    2027 State St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
  • /10

    $3,995

    Total Monthly Price

    • 2 Beds
    • 1.5 Baths
    • 800 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    1218 Blanchard St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103

    Come take a tour of this must see free-standing 2 bedroom and 1.5 bathroom home. Every pass through the dedicated garden/yard space, or moment sitting on the deck will make you feel right at home. Centrally located on Santa Barbara's East side, the home offers many positive attractions and features with plenty of that coastal charm. The tile floors and stainless-steel appliances help to offer a

    1218 Blanchard St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
  • /15

    $4,600

    Total Monthly Price

    • 3 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • 1,050 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    1524 Garden St Unit 3, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    Downtown 3BD/2BA Unit. Remodeled bathroom, kitchen with newer flooring, paint, and appliances. Exterior: coin operate/common laundry for the tenants. Great location! Downtown near shops, restaurants and parks. Available July 1st. 3BD/ 2BA in a quiet complex on the second floorOne Carport.Tenant pays for all utilities.Unfurnished $4,600 per monthFlexible.

    1524 Garden St Unit 3, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • /18

    $1,950

    Total Monthly Price

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 1,525 Sq Ft
    • House for Rent

    2510 De la Vina St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

    Available August 1st for a standard 12-month lease. The strongest feature of this 271-square-foot master suite is the multi-room layout, featuring a private attached bathroom and a connected sunlit private office with its own entrance. The space features hardwood flooring throughout, with a dedicated private storage closet located in the adjacent hallway. The suite can be rented as a single for

    2510 De la Vina St, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
  • /16

    $6,300

    Total Monthly Price

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 1,500 Sq Ft
    • Townhouse for Rent

    508 Orena St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103

    Gorgeous, expansive ocean views from nearly every room. Unheard of to have this view, without wires, in the lower Riviera of Santa Barbara. Wake up every morning and watch the sailboats leaving the harbor, from all three bedrooms!Unreal walkability for a home with these views. Only 1 block to the Mission rose garden. 8 blocks from Alice Keck Park. 10 blocks to the Arlington Theater,

    508 Orena St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
  • /8

    $6,000

    Total Monthly Price

    • 3 Beds
    • 1.5 Baths
    • 1,197 Sq Ft
    • Townhouse for Rent

    4979 San Marcos Ct, Santa Barbara, CA 93111

    Introducing the Perfect Two-Story Townhouse! Discover the ideal floor plan in this stunning townhouse featuring 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms. Nestled in a secure gated community, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and style.Key Features:- Spacious layout with hardwood floors and elegant tile accents.- Fully equipped with all appliances, including a washer and

    4979 San Marcos Ct, Santa Barbara, CA 93111
  • /16

    $5,000

    Total Monthly Price

    • 3 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 1,290 Sq Ft
    • Condo for Rent

    605 W Anapamu St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101

    2021 built apartment in downtown Santa Barbara! Apartment is two stories- 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths upstairs; large kitchen, living area, powder bath, and garage downstairs. Unit has its own laundry and ample storage in its garage. Located a short distance from the beach, State Street, and the 101 freeway.Tenant pays for all utilities except landscape maintenance. Security deposit due

    605 W Anapamu St, Santa Barbara, CA 93101
  • /20

    $12,000 Per Month

    • 2 Beds
    • 1 Bath
    • House for Rent

    000 Medio Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93103

    Available for Aug. 2026 only or part thereof. Magical ocean view & private retreat! Spacious, luxurious, sun-filled, centrally located 2 bedroom home in the Lower Riviera, on a private lane. Designer decorated and very private. Beautiful gardens with huge palm trees and high hedges. Wrap-around back patio deck has beautiful ocean, city and sunset views. House is great for entertaining and perfect

    Jackie Walters Village Properties

    000 Medio Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93103

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Why Live in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara's Mediterranean climate creates an ideal setting for year-round outdoor living, with 283 sunny days and temperatures ranging from 65-75°F. The historic Stearns Wharf extends into the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by pristine beaches like Leadbetter Beach where residents enjoy surfing and paddleboarding. The Santa Barbara Mission and County Courthouse showcase the city's Spanish Colonial architecture, while the Funk Zone district features local art galleries, wine tasting rooms, and craft breweries. State Street forms the heart of downtown shopping and dining, with restaurants like Bouchon serving farm-fresh French cuisine and Brophy Bros offering fresh seafood with harbor views.

The Santa Barbara housing market reflects its coastal premium location. The median sale price across all properties stands at $2.2 million. Single-family homes in the Riviera neighborhood command a median price of $3,713,600, while Hope Ranch homes reach a median of $7.57 million. More moderate options exist in Downtown Santa Barbara, where single-family homes have a median price of $1,695,000. East Beach features condos with median prices of $895,000 for one bedroom and $1,610,000 for two bedrooms.

Property taxes in Santa Barbara County maintain a 0.66% effective rate, lower than nearby Ventura County at 0.69%. The California state income tax starts at 1% for yearly salaries of $41,901. Educational options include six "A" rated schools, including Hope Elementary and San Marcos Senior High School. The University of California Santa Barbara and Westmont College provide higher education opportunities. Multiple transportation options connect residents through MTD public buses, downtown electric shuttles, and 50 miles of bike paths. Commuters can reach Los Angeles in 1.5 to 2 hours via Highway 101.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a home in Santa Barbara, CA?
The median rent for a home in Santa Barbara, CA is $8,000 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of July 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while townhouses and single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Santa Barbara, CA?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Santa Barbara, CA, a household needs to earn roughly $320,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $8,000 per month in Santa Barbara, CA, renters typically need to show $24,000 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Santa Barbara, CA?
In Santa Barbara, CA, the price-to-rent ratio is 22.7, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
What neighborhoods in Santa Barbara, CA are best for renting a home?
The best neighborhood for renting in Santa Barbara, CA depends on your priorities: commute, walkability, budget, and lifestyle all play a role. Popular areas for renting a home include Oak Park, Westside, East San Roque, Lower Riviera and Laguna, each with its own character and price range.

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
267
Median Rent
$8,000
Median Single Family Home Rent
$9,750
Median Townhouse Rent
$5,650
Median Condo Rent
$4,000
How to Rent a Home