WELCOME TO DOWNTOWN SANTA BARBARA
The most pedestrian-friendly breadth of the city, downtown is where Santa Barbara’s rich Spanish heritage is on vivid display—and where it seamlessly mingles with modernity. Here, patrons of local favorite Handlebar Coffee look out over a 1782 Spanish fortress and the 1873 Lobero theater neighbors a strip of contemporary boutiques. Yet the city’s commitment to Spanish Revival architecture—even national chain banks boast classic red rooftops, white-washed walls, and colorful tiles—visually ties the whole ‘hood together into one delightfully charming package.
THE NEIGHBORS
Young professionals, families, long-time residents, retirees, and more, all drawn to downtown’s bustle and beauty.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Tourists mixed with locals, side-by-side historic and contemporary buildings, plus scads of culture and charm.
THE LIFESTYLE
Endless opportunities for shopping, dining, and entertainment with the stunning coastline a short distance away.
UNEXPECTED APPEAL
A thriving culinary scene with ample access to regional wineries.
THE MARKET
Newer apartments, duplexes, townhouses, and condos mingle with older cottages, ranch homes, and bungalows.
YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH
The respectfully preserved historic buildings that add character, dignity, and grandeur to the area
WELCOME TO MONTECITO
Just east of Santa Barbara, Montecito’s eight square miles are flush with lavish estates, luxe compounds, and secluded manors. Affluent families and individuals—including a smattering of mega-celebrities like long-time resident Oprah Winfrey—call this seaside sanctum home. Built into the oak- and eucalyptus-laden foothills of the Santa Ynez mountains (Montecito means “little mountain” in Spanish), the peaceful town boasts several world-class resorts, top-of-the-line schools, country clubs, and a selection of high-end shops and restaurants.
THE NEIGHBORS
An older, well-heeled crowd of CEOs, entrepreneurs, and Hollywood stars, drawn to the neighborhood’s privacy and beauty.
WHAT TO EXPECT
An elite locale of understated elegance sans attitude, filled with quiet streets and gated estates.
THE LIFESTYLE
The townfolk mix along beaches and two main streets, and it’s an unspoken rule that no one makes a fuss if a famous face is spotted.
UNEXPECTED APPEAL
There’s plenty of places to see and be seen, from the Biltmore’s Bella Vista restaurant to celeb-studded Butterfly beach.
THE MARKET
Considered the crème de la crème of Santa Barbara County real estate, even teardowns go for millions.
YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH
Sunny days, ocean breezes, beautiful scenery, and the pleasant daily pursuit of the high life.
WELCOME TO HOPE RANCH
A private residential community nestled between the Santa Ynez mountains and Pacific coastline, this unincorporated suburb of Santa Barbara offers its inhabitants an abundance of recreational activities: there’s an exclusive-access beach, a members-only golf club, tennis courts, picnic grounds, and a network of equestrian trails. Ranch residents also enjoy a high degree of seclusion, as only three roads are public. It’s a palm-lined, peaceful oasis that’s a world all of its own.
THE NEIGHBORS
CEOs, celebrities, and long-established families mingle in this exclusive enclave.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A serene, sporty private haven with a community vibe.
THE LIFESTYLE
Outdoor activities abound: denizens have exclusive access to a beach, tennis courts, picnic areas, bridle trails, and a golf club.
https://hoperanch.org/
UNEXPECTED APPEAL
22 miles of equestrian trails crisscross the neighborhood.
THE MARKET
Sprawling estates and luxury homes, with approximately 30 sales each year.
YOU'LL FALL IN LOVE WITH
Hope Ranch Beach, a halcyon stretch of sand accessible by residential keycard only, and the community’s center come summer.