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

Total population
87,779
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$106,182/yr
4.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
39,204
0.5% year-over-year change

Santa Barbara population

How many people live in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara is home to 87,779 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.2% of Santa Barbara locals are male, and 50.8% are female.

Total population
87,779
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.2%
43,232
Female
50.8%
44,547
Value Percent YoY change
Male 43,232 49.2% 0.5%
Female 44,547 50.8% -1.0%
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 is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.5% are children under 15, then 13.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.9% of the population, while another 23.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 20.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.5%
15 to 24
13.2%
25 to 44
27.9%
45 to 64
23.8%
Over 65
20.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 12,762 14.5% 1.1%
15 to 24 11,560 13.2% -3.4%
25 to 44 24,503 27.9% -0.9%
45 to 64 20,908 23.8% -0.4%
Over 65 18,046 20.6% 1.8%
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, 78.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 9.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 11.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 58.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 3.6% have Asian roots. Another 1.4% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 14.7% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 19.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
78.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
9.5%
Non-citizens
11.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 69,218 78.8% 0.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 8,373 9.5% 0.5%
Non-citizens 10,188 11.6% -6.1%
Racial breakdown
White
58.6%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.4%
Asian
3.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
19.9%
Other
14.7%
Value Percent
White 51,436 58.6%
Black or African American 1,374 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 1,194 1.4%
Asian 3,202 3.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 140 0.2%
Two or more races 17,490 19.9%
Other 12,943 14.7%

Households in Santa Barbara

A peek inside Santa Barbara households

Santa Barbara has 36,291 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 53.7% are families, while the remaining 46.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
36,291
-0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
16,790
Family households
19,501
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 16,790 46.3% -3.9%
Family households 19,501 53.7% 1.9%
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

The housing landscape of Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara's housing consists of 39,204 units, with 45.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 9.5% 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 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
39,204
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 17,971 45.8%
1 unit, attached 3,711 9.5%
2 units 2,474 6.3%
3 or 4 units 3,076 7.8%
5 to 9 units 3,465 8.8%
10 to 19 units 3,506 8.9%
20 to 49 units 2,942 7.5%
50 or more units 1,830 4.7%
Mobile home 229 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
163
98.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Santa Barbara

In Santa Barbara, the median construction year is 1965. About 19.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 7,701 19.6% 0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 2,970 7.6% 0.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 5,713 14.6% -10.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 6,043 15.4% 3.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 6,406 16.3% 2.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,720 12% 8.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,168 5.5% -10.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,848 4.7% 13.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,472 3.8% 7.9%
Built in 2020 or later 163 0.4% 98.8%
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 occupancy rates

Out of the 36,291 occupied housing units in Santa Barbara, 39.9% are owner-occupied, while 60.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
36,291
-0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
21,825
Owner occupied
14,466
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 21,825 60.1% -1.0%
Owner occupied 14,466 39.9% -0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
7.4%
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 housing costs

Housing costs in Santa Barbara come to a median of $2,493 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $2,413.

Median housing costs per month
$2,493/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
$2,413/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

Santa Barbara education at a glance

About 17.9% of the population in Santa Barbara went to high school, while 21.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.1% earned an associate degree and 28% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 19.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,381 6.1% -2.1%
High school diploma 12,932 17.9% 0.7%
College diploma 15,323 21.2% -6.2%
Associate degree 5,146 7.1% -8.0%
Bachelor's degree 20,236 28% -0.8%
Graduate degree 14,235 19.7% 8.0%
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

How much people earn in Santa Barbara

The average annual household income in Santa Barbara was $158,153 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $106,182, reflecting a +4.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Santa Barbara
$158,153/year
4.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Santa Barbara
$106,182/year
4.4% year-over-year change

Santa Barbara income by age

In Santa Barbara, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $113,325. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $134,737 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,265, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $83,371 in earnings. Overall, 86% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,265 -11.4%
25 - 44 $113,325 5.3%
45 - 64 $134,737 4.8%
Over 65 $83,371 0.2%
Above poverty level
74,024
Below poverty level
12,101
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 74,024 86% -1.2%
Below poverty level 12,101 14% 6.8%

Average renter income in Santa Barbara

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Santa Barbara, their median household income was $73,992 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 39.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$73,992
Rent-to-income ratio
39.1%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Santa Barbara

Workforce and job types in Santa Barbara

The job market in Santa Barbara is powered by 45,058 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 87.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 12.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 14.1% run their own businesses, 62.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.3% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
45,058
-2.5% year-over-year change
White collar
39,484
Blue collar
5,574
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 39,484 87.6% -1.5%
Blue collar 5,574 12.4% -8.6%
Employer type
Self employees
14.1%
Private companies
62.7%
Governmental workers
12.3%
Not for profit companies
11%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,335 14.1% 2.0%
Private companies 28,247 62.7% -3.9%
Governmental workers 5,538 12.3% 2.0%
Not for profit companies 4,938 11% -4.8%
Unemployment rate
5.8%
21.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Santa Barbara stands at 5.8%, 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

How people get around in Santa Barbara

Commuting methods vary: 69.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 30,506 69.3% -4.3%
Taxicab 275 0.6% 17.5%
Bus or trolleybus 857 2% -12.8%
Railroad 2 0% 0.0%
Motorcycle 285 0.6% -4.7%
Bicycle 1,415 3.2% -1.8%
Walk 1,773 4% -5.3%
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 by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
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
93109 10,915 4,576 $123,347 $185,197

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FAQs about Santa Barbara demographics 

What is the total population of Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara has a total population of 87,779 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 -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Santa Barbara?

The gender ratio in Santa Barbara is as follows:
  • 49.2% males (43,232 residents)
  • 50.8% females (44,547 residents)

What is the median age in Santa Barbara?

The median age in Santa Barbara is 39.7.

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

The age distribution in Santa Barbara is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.5% (12,762 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.2% (11,560 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.9% (24,503 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.8% (20,908 residents)
  • Over 65: 20.6% (18,046 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Barbara?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Santa Barbara is as follows:
  • White: 58.6% (51,436 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (1,374 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.4% (1,194 residents)
  • Asian: 3.6% (3,202 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (140 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 19.9% (17,490 residents)
  • Other: 14.7% (12,943 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 78.8% of the population in Santa Barbara.

How many housing units are there in Santa Barbara?

There are 39,204 housing units in Santa Barbara, 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 and what is the average household size?

Santa Barbara has a total of 36,291 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara has a median household income of $106,182, representing a +4.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.2% in Santa Barbara, with a workforce of 45,058 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 87.6% (39,484 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 12.4% (5,574 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 14.1% (6,335 residents)
  • Private companies: 62.7% (28,247 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.3% (5,538 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11% (4,938 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