Best Suburbs Surrounding Santa Barbara, California

California is the land of dreams, from its beautiful beaches and mountains to its vibrant economy. The famous Gold Rush started a fascination with this state, and it has never ceased. From entertainment to recreation to ample job opportunities, there is something for everyone in The Golden State.

Ready to purchase a new home and start living your version of the California dream? The Santa Barbara area is hard to beat. Imagine sunsets, wine country, and Spanish Colonial-inspired architectural influences. From delicious California cuisine to vibrant farmers’ markets, your taste buds will be tantalized. The “American Riviera” is sure to impress with its museums, art galleries, shops, and restaurants. With a great location about 90 miles north of Los Angeles, this Pacific Ocean coastal community has much to offer potential new homebuyers. Plenty of celebrities choose this stunning California locale – you can, too!

Whether you’re a first-time California homebuyer or a retiree in the Golden State, the ideal home awaits you in the welcoming Santa Barbara suburbs. We’ve compiled a list of the top 5 Santa Barbara suburbs.

5.  Carpinteria

• Population: 13,289
• Median Home Value: $729,000
• School Ranking: B+
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 24 minutes

Carpinteria, CA, gives its share of relaxation with spots like Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve and Carpinteria State Beach. Looking for fun shops and eateries? Take a stroll in Downtown Carpinteria. This seaside community is an idyllic setting for surfing, seal viewing, fishing, and biking. Peruse some of the welcoming new home communities in Carpinteria along the Central Coast of California.

4.  Toro Canyon

• Population:  1,714
• Median Home Value: $2,000,001
• School Ranking: A-
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 19 minutes

Come see what the fuss is about in Toro Canyon. This affluent community offers easy commutes, highly rated schools, and superb homes offering the latest finishes and features. Discover your share of outdoor recreation at Los Padres National Forest and the Pacific Ocean. Beach visits, hiking, and parks allow you to relish this California treasure.

3.  Goleta

• Population: 32,677
• Median Home Value: $828,300
• School Ranking: A+
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 16 minutes
• Most Recent Annual Number of Property Crimes: 509
• Most Recent Annual Number of Violent Crimes: 40

Fertile farming brings loads of citrus and avocados to Goleta. You can step back in time and learn more of the agricultural history at Rancho La Patera and Stow House. Vintage treasures await you in Old Town. From golfing to hiking the Ellwood Mesa, it’s easy to stay active. Goleta Beach Park is the ideal spot to make memories. Retreat to your new home after a fun day in the California sunshine.

2.  Mission Canyon

• Population: 2,353
• Median Home Value: $1,303,400
• School Ranking: A
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 19 minutes

See the beautiful Santa Barbara Mission with stunning views of both the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains. This peaceful area is known for its star gazing. Take some time to explore the indigenous plants at The Santa Barbara Botanic Garden. The serenity and ease to Santa Barbara attractions puts Mission Canyon on this list. Become the next happy resident of Mission Canyon.

1.  Montecito

• Population: 8,494
• Median Home Value: $2,000,001
• School Ranking: A+
• Mean Travel Time to Work: 19 minutes

There’s plenty to tempt the senses in Montecito. See the stunning Lotusland, a 37-acre botanic garden considered to be in the top 10 botanic gardens in the world. Touch the white sands and hear the waves at Butterfly Beach or Miramar Beach. Taste an array of delicious options from quick bites to fine dining experiences at the many restaurants. Smell the relaxing scents during a pamper day at a local spa. Montecito is a splendor to the senses and a great place to find your new California home.

Ready to make your move? NewHomeSource has all the resources you need, from information on closing costs in California to a step-by-step guide to building a home in the Golden State. Check out NewHomeSource.com/learn for more guides on moving to the west coast.