Live your California dream nestled along California's sun-soaked coastline. With its Mediterranean climate, breathtaking views, and laid-back charm, this coastal gem is quickly becoming a top choice for homebuyers seeking an idyllic lifestyle.
Santa Barbara has a large Spanish influence, which is evident in its architecture, festivals, and community events. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Santa Ynez Valley, one of California’s premier wine regions, just a short drive away. The city’s pristine beaches, like East Beach and Butterfly Beach, offer endless opportunities for relaxation, water activities, and breathtaking sunsets.
Sustainability and green living are important to the City of Santa Barbara. The community is deeply committed to preserving its natural environment. Whether it’s through local food markets, organic restaurants, or eco-conscious businesses, there’s a strong focus on a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.
If you're thinking about moving to Santa Barbara, here’s a comprehensive guide of pros and cons to help you decide whether this beautiful city is the right fit for you.
Pros
1. Stunning Natural Beauty
Santa Barbara is a visual masterpiece. From the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains to the pristine beaches along the Pacific Ocean, nature lovers will thrive here. Whether it's hiking through lush hills, relaxing on the beach, or simply enjoying the scenic vistas, the outdoors are always just a step away.
2. Vibrant Cultural Scene
Santa Barbara has a cultural scene like no other. Residents enjoy a wide array of art galleries, theaters, and music festivals. Spend your days exploring the many museums including the Santa Barbara Museum of Art and the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum. Throughout the year, the city hosts various events, including the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, attracting artists, filmmakers, and creatives from around the world.
3. Ideal Climate
One of the biggest draws is the weather. Known for its Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara enjoys mild temperatures year-round. If you are looking for the ideal summer that is warm but not too hot, Santa Barbara delivers. Mild winters have very little rain. The common denominator is plenty of consistent sunshine and moderate temperatures.
4. Active Lifestyle
Get out in the California sun to surf, mountain bike, hike, or do yoga. A variety of outdoor activities with the city’s beaches allow for water sports including kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. If you love an active lifestyle, Santa Barbara is one of the best places in California to live.
5. Education & Family-Friendly
Discover excellent public and private schools, as well as the prestigious University of California, Santa Barbara. The city also offers a safe, family-friendly environment with plenty of parks, kid-friendly activities, and strong community support. You will find families out at Kids’ World in Alameda Park, Shipwreck Playground in Chase Palm Park, and Shoreline Park with its view of the Channel Islands and whale watching opportunities.
| Fun Facts About Santa Barbara |
|---|
| Santa Barbara boasts over 300 days of sunshine each year contributing to its vibrant outdoor culture. |
| Santa Barbara earned its nickname as the "American Riviera" due to its stunning coastal beauty and Mediterranean climate. This natural beauty attracts many to this coastal paradise. |
| Find one of the largest collections of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture in the nation here. |
| It is home to the world’s first botanical garden dedicated to California’s native plants. |
While Santa Barbara offers numerous benefits, it also comes with its challenges. Here’s a look at some of the drawbacks to consider before making the move.
Cons
6. High Cost of Living
All of this scenic beauty and great location come at a price. One of the biggest downsides to living in Santa Barbara is the cost of living that is 57% above the national average, according to the Economic Research Institute. Housing prices in Santa Barbara are notably high, with the median home price approaching $1.5 million according to the latest census information.
A competitive real estate market higher than the national average makes purchasing property more challenging especially for many first-time homebuyers. Condominiums and smaller homes can start around $700,000, while luxury estates or oceanfront properties can easily exceed $10 million.
A move from a city with a lower cost of living to Santa Barbara may be a financial challenge. Many people who work in Santa Barbara opt to live in surrounding areas like Goleta, Carpinteria, or Montecito, where prices may be a little more affordable.
7. Limited Job Market
The job market in Santa Barbara is limited for high-paying industries like finance or tech, but education and research sectors are strong due to the presence of UCSB and other academic institutions. Tourism and hospitality also play a big role in the local economy, with opportunities in event management, hotel management, and restaurant services.
For those in creative industries, such as film, design, and the arts, Santa Barbara offers a nurturing environment with ample networking opportunities. Though the job market is competitive in certain industries, many residents overcome this challenge by working remotely, starting their own businesses, and commuting to larger cities like Los Angeles and Montecito.
8. Traffic and Transportation
While Santa Barbara is a relatively small city, it does experience its share of traffic during rush hour and tourist season. Larger crowds during peak tourist season in the summer diminish the ability for locals to access restaurants and the beaches. Public transportation options are limited. Many areas of the city are walkable, but owning a car is often essential for getting around.
9. Quieter Nightlife Scene
While there are plenty of restaurants, wine bars, and small venues, those looking for a vibrant, bustling nightlife may be disappointed. It’s more about enjoying calm evenings and scenic views than hitting up nightclubs or late-night spots. Santa Barbara has a laid-back atmosphere and its nightlife might not be suited for a younger crowd.
Popular Attractions in Santa Barbara
State Street
The city's main shopping, dining, and entertainment area, lined with boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries. This is a popular spot for outdoor dining.
Stearns Wharf
A historic landmark where you can stroll along the pier, enjoy seafood, and watch boats and marine life in the harbor. Stearns Wharf is at the end of State Street.
Old Mission Santa Barbara
Known as the "Queen of the Missions," this historic site offers insight into the city’s Spanish colonial past. This impressive relic is found overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
A stunning 78-acre garden showcasing California’s native plants with spectacular views of the mountains. This Mission Canyon jewel is a must-do.
The Funk Zone
A trendy neighborhood where you can explore urban wineries, craft breweries, art studios, boutiques, and restaurants. It’s named for the funky buildings previously grain and feed stores, odd-shaped warehouses, and Quonset huts.
Cabrillo Bike Path
Rent a bike and enjoy a scenic ride along this path that stretches the coastline from Leadbetter Beach to Butterfly Beach. Admire stunning ocean views, feel the coastal breeze, and make stops at various parks and attractions along the way.
Final Thoughts
Santa Barbara offers an exceptional lifestyle, but it’s important to carefully weigh both the pros and cons before making the move. If you can navigate the high cost of living and the limited job market, the rewards of living in this stunning coastal city are undeniable.
Be rewarded with natural beauty, lifestyle perks, culture, and a laid-back atmosphere. Santa Barbara is an alluring place to settle down and enjoy the California dream. Start your journey of new homeownership and become a resident!
Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.