Renter Resources
Don't Sign the Lease Until You Understand These Clauses
One word in your lease can cost you hundreds or save you from a nightmare. Here's how to turn legalese into clear decisions before you sign.
•10 min read
What to Know About
Life in Los Olivos & Beyond
Los Olivos shares many of the great qualities that make California a desirable place to live.
California is the most populous state in the United States and is home to some of the world's most iconic cities, such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco. It's known for its thriving economy and diverse landscapes, including beaches, deserts, and mountains. Immerse yourself in the state's history and traditions by visiting museums like the California Science Center and the Getty Center or attending worldwide renowned universities like Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley.
There are also many outdoor recreation opportunities in the state, such as skiing in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, surfing along the Pacific Coast, and hiking in Yosemite National Park. There's something for everyone. Sports fans can enjoy cheering on the San Francisco 49ers (NFL), Los Angeles Kings (NHL), Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB), San Francisco Giants (MLB), Los Angeles Lakers (NBA), or Golden State Warriors (NBA). Also, check out famous attractions like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Disneyland, Hollywood, the historic city of San Francisco, and the mecca of Los Angeles.
With its warm and inviting climate, thriving economy, and high quality of life, Embrace the Golden State and discover why California is a great place to live.
Rental Market Trends
Santa Barbara County, CA
As of August 2025, Santa Barbara County's rental market is competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units. Santa Barbara County's average rent is 11.6% ($299) higher than the California average of $2,567 and 60.1% ($1,076) higher than the U.S. average of $1,790.
Average Rent
$2,866
Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change
2.8% ($82)
Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change
0.7% ($19)
Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market
27
| Unit Type | Average Rent | Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change | Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bed | $2,535 | 6% ($161) | 8.1% ($190) |
| 2 Beds | $3,516 | 0.2% ($6) | 20.2% ($592) |
| 3 Beds | $5,198 | 3.8% ($191) | 51.8% ($1773) |
| Cities within Santa Barbara County | Average Rent | Avg. Rent vs. Santa BarbaraAverage Rent vs. Santa Barbara County | Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Barbara | $3,754 | 31% ($888) | 24 days |
| Santa Maria | $2,508 | 12.5% ($358) | 22 days |
| Goleta | $3,988 | 39.1% ($1122) | 27 days |
| Lompoc | $2,044 | 28.7% ($822) | 62 days |
Rental market trends are calculated using listing data from RentalSource.
Frequently Asked Questions
Santa Barbara County Rental Market FAQs
Explore rental prices, market trends, and availability in Santa Barbara County, CA.
The average rent in Santa Barbara County, CA is $2,866 per month.
Homes in Santa Barbara County typically rent for between $1,775 and $6,757 per month, with an average of $2,866 per month.
In Santa Barbara County, the average rent for a 1-bedroom home is $2,535 per month, for a 2-bedroom home, $3,516 per month, and a 3-bedroom home is $5,198 per month.
The average rent in Santa Barbara County is 60.1% ($1,076) higher than the national average of $1,790 per month.
The average rent in Santa Barbara County has decreased by 2.8% ($82) in the last month and increased by 0.7% ($19) over the past year.
The rental market in Santa Barbara County, CA, is currently competitive, with strong renter demand causing quick leasing times for well-priced units.
In Santa Barbara County, CA, the average rental stays on the market for approximately 27 days. While most properties are rented within this timeframe, factors like seasonality, demand, and property type can affect how quickly a rental leases.
There are currently 203 rental properties available in Santa Barbara County, CA.
Based on the current averages, a household would need an annual income of $140,640 to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom home in Santa Barbara County.
