Rentometer, Inc. | Data as of 10/23/2025
Santa Barbara’s coastal charm and vibrant cultural scene make it one of California’s most sought‑after rental markets. With easy access to the Pacific Ocean, historic State Street boutiques, and the bustling waterfront promenade, renters enjoy a lifestyle that blends beachside relaxation with urban amenities. The city’s strong academic presence, outdoor recreation options, and acclaimed culinary scene attract professionals, students, and retirees alike, creating a diverse and dynamic tenant community.
Both apartments and single‑family homes are plentiful, catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets. Studio apartments typically rent in the $2500 range, while one‑bedroom units hover around $2600–$2700. Two‑bedroom apartments move up to the $3500–$3700 bracket, and larger three‑bedroom layouts can exceed $5,000 per month. For those seeking a house, studio‑style homes start near $2,800, and one‑bedroom homes average around $3,200. Two‑bedroom houses often reach the $5,000 mark, while three‑bedroom homes command $7,250–$8,200. Larger families looking for four‑plus bedroom properties find rentals in the $12,900–$14,500 range. Neighborhoods such as Downtown, East Beach, the Mesa, and the historic Rose Garden area each offer distinct character—from lively nightlife to quiet, tree‑lined streets—ensuring renters can find a setting that matches their lifestyle.
The Santa Barbara rental market remains competitive yet rewarding, with a strong inventory of modern apartments, charming historic homes, and newly built residences. Prospective tenants benefit from the city’s walkable districts, proximity to the University of California Santa Barbara, and easy access to hiking trails and surf spots. Whether you’re searching for a compact studio near the marina or a spacious family house within a leafy suburb, Santa Barbara provides a compelling mix of convenience, beauty, and community for today’s renters.
| Property Type | Bedrooms | Average | Median | Min - Max | 25th - 75th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment | Studio | $2,521 | $2,200 | $1,169 - $4,995 | $1,875 - $2,750 |
| Apartment | 1 Bedroom | $2,749 | $2,700 | $850 - $6,500 | $2,150 - $3,173 |
| Apartment | 2 Bedroom | $3,606 | $3,725 | $900 - $7,500 | $3,350 - $4,000 |
| Apartment | 3 Bedroom | $5,147 | $5,375 | $1,050 - $8,900 | $4,700 - $6,480 |
| House | Studio | $3,969 | $2,795 | $2,200 - $8,500 | $2,500 - $3,850 |
| House | 1 Bedroom | $2,772 | $3,147 | $850 - $5,500 | $2,300 - $3,650 |
| House | 2 Bedroom | $5,579 | $5,000 | $1,050 - $14,800 | $3,950 - $6,800 |
| House | 3 Bedroom | $8,253 | $7,250 | $700 - $19,250 | $6,000 - $9,750 |
| House | 4+ Bedroom | $14,468 | $12,900 | $5,500 - $45,000 | $7,999 - $17,500 |
In the current period, the average rent in Santa Barbara was $2,924 for Studio, $2,738 for 1 Bedroom, $4,772 for 2 Bedroom, $7,960 for 3 Bedroom, and $13,150 for 4+ Bedroom.
Data provided by Rentometer, Inc.