Santa Barbara County, CA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
443,701
-0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$98,161/yr
2.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
160,592
0.5% year-over-year change

Santa Barbara County population

How many people live in Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara County is home to 443,701 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Santa Barbara County locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
443,701
-0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
222,371
Female
49.9%
221,330
Value Percent YoY change
Male 222,371 50.1% -0.1%
Female 221,330 49.9% 0.0%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Santa Barbara County is 35, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.5% are children under 15, then 18.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.8% of the population, while another 21.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.5%
15 to 24
18.8%
25 to 44
24.8%
45 to 64
21.3%
Over 65
16.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 82,138 18.5% -0.5%
15 to 24 83,199 18.8% 0.3%
25 to 44 110,259 24.8% -0.4%
45 to 64 94,395 21.3% -1.5%
Over 65 73,710 16.6% 2.4%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Santa Barbara County, 76.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 10.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 13.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 48% of locals are Caucasian, 1.7% are African American and 5.3% have Asian roots. Another 2.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 15.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 27.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
76.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
10.4%
Non-citizens
13.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 338,643 76.3% -0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 46,162 10.4% 1.7%
Non-citizens 58,896 13.3% -0.9%
Racial breakdown
White
48%
Black or African American
1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
2.1%
Asian
5.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
27.6%
Other
15.2%
Value Percent
White 213,134 48%
Black or African American 7,570 1.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 9,181 2.1%
Asian 23,694 5.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 397 0.1%
Two or more races 122,239 27.6%
Other 67,486 15.2%

Households in Santa Barbara County

A peek inside Santa Barbara County households

Santa Barbara County has 149,608 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 64.8% are families, while the remaining 35.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
149,608
0.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
52,673
Family households
96,935
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 52,673 35.2% 0.6%
Family households 96,935 64.8% 0.3%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Santa Barbara County

The housing landscape of Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara County's housing consists of 160,592 units, with 56.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 8.3% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 4.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
160,592
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 90,067 56.1%
1 unit, attached 13,257 8.3%
2 units 5,393 3.4%
3 or 4 units 9,427 5.9%
5 to 9 units 11,437 7.1%
10 to 19 units 9,688 6%
20 to 49 units 6,590 4.1%
50 or more units 7,202 4.5%
Mobile home 7,351 4.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 180 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
1,173
58.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Santa Barbara County

In Santa Barbara County, the median construction year is 1974. About 8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 9.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 12,878 8% -1.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,800 3.6% -2.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 17,447 10.9% -5.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 31,195 19.4% 1.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 29,032 18.1% -0.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 25,617 16% 1.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 13,378 8.3% -6.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 14,600 9.1% 4.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 9,472 5.9% 12.4%
Built in 2020 or later 1,173 0.7% 58.9%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Santa Barbara County occupancy rates

Out of the 149,608 occupied housing units in Santa Barbara County, 52.4% are owner-occupied, while 47.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
149,608
0.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
71,264
Owner occupied
78,344
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 71,264 47.6% 1.5%
Owner occupied 78,344 52.4% -0.5%
Unoccupied housing units
6.8%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Santa Barbara County housing costs

Housing costs in Santa Barbara County come to a median of $2,155 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,131.

Median housing costs per month
$2,155/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Santa Barbara County
$2,131/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Santa Barbara County

Santa Barbara County education at a glance

About 25.2% of the population in Santa Barbara County went to high school, while 25.2% pursued college studies. Another 8% earned an associate degree and 19.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 33,463 9.7% 0.9%
High school diploma 86,894 25.2% 1.8%
College diploma 86,705 25.2% -4.9%
Associate degree 27,617 8% -0.6%
Bachelor's degree 67,974 19.7% 1.5%
Graduate degree 41,649 12.1% 4.2%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Santa Barbara County

How much people earn in Santa Barbara County

The average annual household income in Santa Barbara County was $140,893 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $98,161, reflecting a +2.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Santa Barbara County
$140,893/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Santa Barbara County
$98,161/year
2.3% year-over-year change

Santa Barbara County income by age

In Santa Barbara County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $103,939. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $123,280 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $33,955, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $81,399 in earnings. Overall, 85.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $33,955 -2.1%
25 - 44 $103,939 2.8%
45 - 64 $123,280 4.0%
Over 65 $81,399 2.7%
Above poverty level
357,307
Below poverty level
61,531
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 357,307 85.3% -1.1%
Below poverty level 61,531 14.7% 6.9%

Employment in Santa Barbara County

Workforce and job types in Santa Barbara County

The job market in Santa Barbara County is powered by 205,874 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 77.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 22.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.6% run their own businesses, 62.6% are employed by private companies, and 17% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
205,874
-0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
159,727
Blue collar
46,147
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 159,727 77.6% 0.1%
Blue collar 46,147 22.4% -2.7%
Employer type
Self employees
11.6%
Private companies
62.6%
Governmental workers
17%
Not for profit companies
8.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 23,982 11.6% -0.8%
Private companies 128,954 62.6% -1.5%
Governmental workers 34,976 17% 2.2%
Not for profit companies 17,962 8.7% 1.6%
Unemployment rate
6.4%
4.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Santa Barbara County stands at 6.4%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Santa Barbara County

How people get around in Santa Barbara County

In Santa Barbara County, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 76.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.8% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 154,173 76.4% -1.6%
Taxicab 454 0.2% 31.6%
Bus or trolleybus 4,361 2.2% -3.6%
Railroad 79 0% 68.1%
Motorcycle 808 0.4% -20.4%
Bicycle 4,742 2.4% -6.1%
Walk 7,774 3.8% -2.3%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Santa Barbara County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
93067 1,101 506 $71,134 $183,944
93101 31,554 12,723 $90,148 $125,767
93103 19,382 7,567 $122,159 $157,942
93105 24,437 10,490 $138,286 $190,587
93108 11,526 4,618 $230,419 $327,788
93109 10,915 4,576 $123,347 $185,197
93110 15,436 6,314 $129,209 $174,836
93111 18,274 6,493 $144,353 $190,682
93117 52,934 17,272 $90,037 $124,132
93013 16,317 6,447 $110,359 $164,797

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FAQs about Santa Barbara County demographics 

What is the total population of Santa Barbara County?

Santa Barbara County has a total population of 443,701 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Santa Barbara County?

The gender ratio in Santa Barbara County is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (222,371 residents)
  • 49.9% females (221,330 residents)

What is the median age in Santa Barbara County?

The median age in Santa Barbara County is 34.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Santa Barbara County?

The age distribution in Santa Barbara County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.5% (82,138 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 18.8% (83,199 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.8% (110,259 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.3% (94,395 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.6% (73,710 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Barbara County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Barbara County is as follows:
  • White: 48% (213,134 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.7% (7,570 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 2.1% (9,181 residents)
  • Asian: 5.3% (23,694 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (397 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 27.6% (122,239 residents)
  • Other: 15.2% (67,486 residents)

What percentage of the population in Santa Barbara County are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 76.3% of the population in Santa Barbara County.

How many housing units are there in Santa Barbara County?

There are 160,592 housing units in Santa Barbara County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Santa Barbara County and what is the average household size?

Santa Barbara County has a total of 149,608 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Santa Barbara County?

Santa Barbara County has a median household income of $98,161, representing a +2.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Santa Barbara County?

The employment rate is 93.6% in Santa Barbara County, with a workforce of 205,874 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 77.6% (159,727 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 22.4% (46,147 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.6% (23,982 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.6% (128,954 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17% (34,976 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.7% (17,962 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025