Apartments for Rent in Santa Barbara, CA (846 Rentals)

How Many Bedrooms?Done
Select your price rangeDone
Lifestyle Matching SearchDone
Learn more about Lifestyle Search
By AmenitiesDone
By Community TypeDone
Features and AvailabilityDone
Done

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.

Read Article

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.

Read Article

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.

Read Article
property at 221 Bath St

221 Bath St

Santa BarbaraCA93101
close
View Me
203 Ladera St
1 Bedroom Apartments

203 Ladera St

203 Ladera StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
Furnished
  • Utilities Included

How a Move-In Inspection Can Protect Your Security Deposit

Learn How a Move-In Inspection Can Protect Your Security Deposit from the Renter University at AparmentHomeLiving.com.

Read Article
close
View Me
Natoma Apartments
2 Bedroom Apartments

Natoma Apartments

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

Beach City, Santa Barbara

801-831 Cliff DrSanta Barbara, CA 93109
Student Housing
  • Utilities Included
close
View Me
Tori Fore
1 Bedroom Apartments

Tori Fore

3790 San Remo DrSanta Barbara, CA 93105
  • Utilities Included
close
View Me
Brentwood
Studio Apartments

Brentwood

1429 De La Vina StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
  • Utilities Included
close
View Me
405 Corona del Mar
1 Bedroom Apartments

405 Corona del Mar

405 Corona del MarSanta Barbara, CA 93103
  • Utilities Included
close
View Me
De La Vina Apartments
1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments

De La Vina Apartments

3754 San Remo DrSanta Barbara, CA 93105
  • Utilities Included
close
View Me
3450 Richland Dr
1 Bedroom Apartments

3450 Richland Dr

3450 Richland DrSanta Barbara, CA 93105
  • Utilities Included
close
View Me
Park East Apartments
1 Bedroom Apartments

Park East Apartments

322-324 E Micheltorena StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
  • Utilities Included
close
View Me
Arlington Village
Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments

Arlington Village

1330 Chapala StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
Showing Results 1-50, Page 1 of 17

Santa Barbara, CA Local Guide

Photo of Staff Writer - Local Guide Expert
Written By:
Staff Writer
Local Guide Expert

Quick Rent Budget Calculator

How much rent can you afford?

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.

decorative image of people with a giant lease agreement

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.”

Best Local Schools in
Santa Barbara, CA

School data provided by Great Schools

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

Explore Santa Barbara, CA Rentals by Map

Decorative image of map

See the most popular apartments and homes in Santa Barbara, CA

View MapSanta Barbara, CA Apartments MapView MapSanta Barbara, CA Rental Homes Map

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

What Are Walk Score®, Transit Score®, and Bike Score® Ratings?

  • Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address.
  • Transit Score® measures access to public transit.
  • Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.

Frequently Asked Questions about Santa Barbara

How much are Studio apartments in Santa Barbara?

There are currently 92 Studio Apartments in Santa Barbara with rent ranges from $1,595 to $4,200 with an average price of $3,058.

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 $7,379 with an average monthly rent of $2,855.

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 $4,273.

How expensive are Santa Barbara Three Bedroom Apartments?

There are currently 74 Three Bedroom Apartments listings available in Santa Barbara on ApartmentHomeLiving.com. The pricing ranges from $1,285 to $14,000 - averaging $4,971 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 Roommate Matching: Finding the Right Fit and Avoiding Pitfalls article

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.

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

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.

decorative image for Know Your Budget: Calculating What You Can Realistically Afford When Renting article

Know Your Budget: Calculating What You Can Realistically Afford When Renting

Written by: Lauren Harrington

Renting an apartment or house isn’t just about looking through online ads, choosing a few apartments or homes you want to tour, filling out an application, and putting down a deposit. Those things are all necessary and important.

decorative image for The Freedom of Short-Term Leases: Exploring the Advantages for Renters article

The Freedom of Short-Term Leases: Exploring the Advantages for Renters

Written by: Bobbi Jackson

If you’re looking to relocate right now, a popular solution that may best fit your current rental needs is a short-term lease.