Apartments for Rent in Santa Barbara, CA (843 Rentals)

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The Ultimate Long-Distance Moving Checklist: Tips from a Real Estate Pro

Moving is tough, especially long-distance. Learn how to minimize stress & expenses with proven strategies from a real estate pro, covering everything from logistics to finances.

Cash or credit? Understanding the Importance of Credit Score in Real Estate and Renting

Discover how your credit score impacts your ability to lease or buy a home. Learn how credit scores are determined, how to check yours, and strategies to improve it for real estate success.

The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour

Touring a rental? This guide helps you know exactly what to look for, from safety features to hidden flaws, so you can confidently sign your lease or keep searching.

property at 221 Bath St

221 Bath St

Santa BarbaraCA93101
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203 Ladera St
1 Bedroom Apartments

203 Ladera St

203 Ladera StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
Furnished
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Natoma Apartments
2 Bedroom Apartments

Natoma Apartments

218 Natoma AveSanta Barbara, CA 93101
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Beach City, Santa Barbara
2 to 6 Bedroom Apartments

Beach City, Santa Barbara

801-831 Cliff DrSanta Barbara, CA 93109
Student Housing
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Tori Fore
1 Bedroom Apartments

Tori Fore

3790 San Remo DrSanta Barbara, CA 93105
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Brentwood
Studio Apartments

Brentwood

1429 De La Vina StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
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405 Corona del Mar
1 Bedroom Apartments

405 Corona del Mar

405 Corona del MarSanta Barbara, CA 93103
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Smart Renter's Guide: Calculating Affordable Rent & Housing Costs

Wondering how to determine your rental budget? This comprehensive guide covers everything from the 30% rule to hidden fees and effective budgeting strategies.

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De La Vina Apartments
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

De La Vina Apartments

3754 San Remo DrSanta Barbara, CA 93105
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3450 Richland Dr
1 Bedroom Apartments

3450 Richland Dr

3450 Richland DrSanta Barbara, CA 93105
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Park East Apartments
1 Bedroom Apartments

Park East Apartments

322-324 E Micheltorena StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
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Arlington Village
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Arlington Village

1330 Chapala StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
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2102 Bath St
1 Bedroom Apartments

2102 Bath St

2102 Bath StSanta Barbara, CA 93105
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Mediterranean Apartments
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Mediterranean Apartments

2400 De La Vina StSanta Barbara, CA 93105
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2126 Castillo St
2 Bedroom Apartments

2126 Castillo St

2126 Castillo StSanta Barbara, CA 93105
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Palm Gardens Apartments
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

Palm Gardens Apartments

1120-1130 San Andres StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
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Navigating the Rental Market: Tips for First-Time Renters

Entering the rental market? Learn these simple tips and strategies to avoid common pitfalls and make confident choices. Rent with peace of mind.

Santa Barbara, CA Local Guide

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Local Guide Expert

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The common "Rule of Thumb" is that rent should be no more than 30% of your income. How much is that? Enter your monthly income and click "Calculate My Budget" to find out.

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Santa Barbara Overview

Santa Barbara is a lovely beach town with a small town Spanish flavor. Residents of apartments in Santa Barbarahave access to miles of beautiful beaches, world-class colleges, a beautiful downtown, a slower pace of life and an abundance of opportunities to explore nature.

What is the history of Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara was first established by Spanish missionaries and soldiers in 1782, when the Presidio was built. When the city came under Mexican rule, former church property was handed out to become ranches. The town quickly grew in population after it became a part of the United States.

How is the weather in Santa Barbara?

Santa Barbara is a land of sunshine most of the year, with lower summer temperatures and warmer winter temperatures than the inland cities. Average highs are in the 70s and lows range from the 40s to 60s.

How do I get around town?

Santa Barbara is very walk and bike friendly. You can also take the MTD bus system. Over 10,000 passengers use The Transit Center daily. When leaving or coming through the city, you can take a plane to the Santa Barbara Airport, or enjoy a lovely ride on the Amtrak.

What is the Santa Barbara commute like?

Due to the high cost of living in Santa Barbara, many people commute from as far away as Ventura, which leads to a lot of congestion on the coastal 101 highway, especially during the early morning and late afternoon hours. State Street is the main thoroughfare through the city.

What are the local media outlets?

Some popular radio stations in Santa Barbara are KJEE 92.9 (Rock), KUSC 88.7 (Classical), and KTYD 99.9 (Classic rock). The main news stations are KEYT and KSBY news. The Santa Barbara News Press has been printing the news since 1855.

Why live in Santa Barbara, CA?

With its sparkling, sunny beaches, Mediterranean climate, and beautiful Spanish architecture, there’s no wonder so many people call Santa Barbara home. The pace of life is slower here, and every problem can be solved by a trip (or two) to the beach. It’s far enough away from Los Angeles to feel like you’ve left the city while close enough to nature to feel at home. Its many distinct shops, interesting houses and museums make Santa Barbara a truly unique and charming city.

What Santa Barbara landmarks should I see?

The Santa Barbara County Courthouse is probably the most beautiful courthouse in the world. Built in a Spanish revival style and with panoramic views of the ocean, the courthouse is absolutely breathtaking. The Santa Barbara Mission is another testament to the beauty of Spanish architecture and perseverance.

What is there to do around Santa Barbara?

The main destination in Santa Barbara is the beach where people go to surf, swim, play, rest and see movie stars. State Street has a lovely downtown area with a mix of local boutiques, great restaurants and big name shops like Nordstrom’s.

Any annual festivals or Santa Barbara events to know?

Every summer, Santa Barbara steps back several centuries and steeps itself in its Spanish roots during the Old Spanish Days fiesta. People flock to downtown to listen to mariachi music, taste great food and break confetti eggs over their friend’s (or enemy’s) head.

Where are the nearby vacation spots?

Solvang is just a short drive away, where the townsfolk have preserved Danish tradition through their food, traditional clothes, and language. Channel Islands National Park offers many great boating, diving, and marine wildlife adventures just a short distance away. Hike the Los Padres or go monarch butterfly hunting.

Where is the best place to move in Santa Barbara?

When looking for apartments in Santa Barbara, know that every neighborhood has its own unique vibe. The Mesa is a great location for someone wants to be close to the beach and great education. Santa Barbara City College is one of the most beautiful campuses in the United States. Lower State Street has a thriving nightlife and close proximity to downtown shops, right between the beach and highway 101. The Riviera is known for its steep winding roads and stone terraces with beautiful views of the ocean, earning Santa Barbara the name of “the American Riviera.”

Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:
Location, Location, Location!

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Getting Around Santa Barbara, CA

Walk Score®

82 / 100

Very Walkable

Most errands can be accomplished on foot

Bike Score®

84 / 100

Very Bikeable

Biking is convenient for most trips

Transit Score®

39 / 100

Some Transit

A few nearby public transportation options

Frequently Asked Questions about Santa Barbara

How much are Studio apartments in Santa Barbara?

There are currently 93 Studio Apartments in Santa Barbara with rent ranges from $1,195 to $4,200 with an average price of $2,906.

What is the current price range for One Bedroom Santa Barbara Apartments for rent?

Today's rental pricing for One Bedroom Apartments in Santa Barbara ranges from $1,285 to $6,330 with an average monthly rent of $3,081.

What does renting a Two Bedroom Apartment in Santa Barbara cost?

The monthly rent prices of Two Bedroom Apartments currently available in Santa Barbara range from $1,190 to $7,500. Today's average rental price for Two Bedrooms here is $4,506.

How expensive are Santa Barbara Three Bedroom Apartments?

There are currently 79 Three Bedroom Apartments listings available in Santa Barbara on ApartmentHomeLiving.com. The pricing ranges from $1,285 to $14,000 - averaging $4,912 for the location.

Expert Rental Resources

Helpful Apartment Articles, How-To's and Tips

The rental experts at ApartmentHomeLiving.com provide you with top advice, tools, and tips for understanding the leasing process and finding the perfect rental. Here are a few helpful rental and leasing articles from our experts to guide you on your search.

decorative image for The Ultimate Long-Distance Moving Checklist: Tips from a Real Estate Pro article

The Ultimate Long-Distance Moving Checklist: Tips from a Real Estate Pro

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Hard truth. Moving is never easy. I’ve done it all – from local moves to cross-country relocations From packing to unpacking the last box, I have found moving to be an exhausting, expensive and stressful experience every time.

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Cash or credit? Understanding the Importance of Credit Score in Real Estate and Renting

Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.

Throughout the day, think about all the times that you have to pay for something. So many of us reach automatically for a credit card or even our phone for a quick payment.

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Roommate Matching: Finding the Right Fit and Avoiding Pitfalls

Written by: Cheryl Bowman

A fantastic way to save money and enjoy a built-in community is to share an apartment. However, a bad roommate situation can turn your dream rental into a nightmare.

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The Art of the Rental Viewing: What to look for during a property tour

Written by: Marie Brown

You’ve scrolled through countless listings, walked through a blur of rentals, and finally found what feels like the one. The pictures? Fantastic. The neighborhood seems just right.