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.

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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, CA

As of August 2025, Santa Barbara's rental market is highly competitive, where rentals lease within days, often attracting multiple applications and above-asking offers. Santa Barbara's average rent is 46.2% ($1,187) higher than the California average of $2,567 and 109.7% ($1,964) higher than the U.S. average of $1,790.

Average Rent

$3,754

Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change

3.1% ($121)

Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change

2.8% ($107)

Avg. Days on MarketAverage Days on Market

Unit Type	Average Rent	Monthly ChangeMonth Over Month Change	Yearly ChangeYear Over Year Change
1 Bed	$2,997	7.2% ($232)	15.3% ($543)
2 Beds	$4,119	0.7% ($30)	4.2% ($182)
3 Beds	$5,819	17.1% ($1198)	8.8% ($472)

Rental market trends are calculated using listing data from RentalSource.

Frequently Asked Questions

Santa Barbara Rental Market FAQs

Explore rental prices, market trends, and availability in Santa Barbara, CA.

What is the average rent in Santa Barbara, CA?

The average rent in Santa Barbara, CA is $3,754 per month.

What is the rental price range for apartments in Santa Barbara, CA?

Apartments in Santa Barbara typically rent for between $2,098 and $7,565 per month, with an average of $3,754 per month.

What is the average rent for different bedroom sizes in Santa Barbara, CA?

In Santa Barbara, the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is $2,997 per month, for a 2-bedroom apartment, $4,119 per month, and a 3-bedroom apartment is $5,819 per month.

How do rent prices in Santa Barbara, CA compare with the national average?

The average rent in Santa Barbara is 109.7% ($1,964) higher than the national average of $1,790 per month.

How have rent prices in Santa Barbara, CA changed recently?

The average rent in Santa Barbara has decreased by 3.1% ($121) in the last month and decreased by 2.8% ($107) over the past year.

How competitive is the rental market in Santa Barbara, CA?

The rental market in Santa Barbara, CA, is currently highly competitive, where rentals lease within days, often attracting multiple applications and above-asking offers.

How long do rentals stay on the market in Santa Barbara, CA?

In Santa Barbara, CA, the average rental stays on the market for approximately 24 days. While most properties are rented within this timeframe, factors like seasonality, demand, and property type can affect how quickly a rental leases.

How many rental properties are available in Santa Barbara, CA?

There are currently 51 rental properties available in Santa Barbara, CA.

Can I afford to rent an apartment in Santa Barbara, CA?

Based on the current averages, a household would need an annual income of $164,760 to comfortably afford a 2-bedroom apartment in Santa Barbara.