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$1,900Studio Apartments Available Now
551-555 W Pueblo St
551-555 W Pueblo StSanta Barbara, CA 93105
Cheap Apartments for Rent in Santa Barbara, CA from $800 (40 Rentals)
Search the lowest-cost Apartments available for rent right now in Santa Barbara.
5029 Douglas Ln, Unit Master bedroom Studio
5029 Douglas Ln
Santa BarbaraCA93111
1127 E Gutierrez St
Santa BarbaraCA93103
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$2,450 - $2,6501 Bedroom Apartments Available Now
Villa Flores Apartments
601 E Anapamu StSanta Barbara, CA 93103
3909 Maricopa Dr
Santa BarbaraCA93110
4593 Hollister Ave, Unit 4593 Hollister Ave Unit 2
4593 Hollister Ave
Santa BarbaraCA93110
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1 Bedroom Apartments
Tori Fore
3790 San Remo DrSanta Barbara, CA 93105
121 Santa Ynez St
Santa BarbaraCA93103
Your Guide to Co-Signers: The Risks, Rewards, and Everything in Between
Thinking about getting a co-signer for your rental application? We break down what a co-signer is, the potential benefits, and the serious risks for both parties. Find out if it's the right choice for you.
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Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Brentwood
1429 De La Vina StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
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1 Bedroom Apartments
405 Corona del Mar
405 Corona del MarSanta Barbara, CA 93103
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
De La Vina Apartments
3754 San Remo DrSanta Barbara, CA 93105
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Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Park East Apartments
322-324 E Micheltorena StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Verano Courtyard Apartments
249-311 Verano DrSanta Barbara, CA 93110
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
3450 Richland Dr
3450 Richland DrSanta Barbara, CA 93105
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1 Bedroom Apartments
3735 San Remo Dr
3735 San Remo DrSanta Barbara, CA 93105
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Studio to 3 Bedroom Apartments
Arlington Village
1330 Chapala StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
Roommate Matching: Finding the Right Fit and Avoiding Pitfalls
When searching for a roommate, follow this list of essential steps and set clear expectations to create a solid foundation for a harmonious living situation.
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1 Bedroom Apartments
2102 Bath St
2102 Bath StSanta Barbara, CA 93105
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1 Bedroom Apartments
Lis
1825 Chapala StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Mediterranean Apartments
2400 De La Vina StSanta Barbara, CA 93105
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2 Bedroom Apartments
2126 Castillo St
2126 Castillo StSanta Barbara, CA 93105
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2 Bedroom Apartments
Alta Vista Garden Apartments
1201 Alta Vista RdSanta Barbara, CA 93103
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Studio to 1 Bedroom Apartments
203 Ladera St
203 Ladera StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
114 W Calle Crespis Apartments
114 W Calle CrespisSanta Barbara, CA 93105
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Cliff House
1040 Cliff DrSanta Barbara, CA 93109
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.
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Monterey Pines
3710-3735 Monterey Pines StSanta Barbara, CA 93105
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1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments
Ivy at Arrellaga
714 W Arrellaga StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
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1 to 3 Bedroom Apartments
Palm Gardens Apartments
1120-1130 San Andres StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Ocean View Apartments
505 Red Rose LnSanta Barbara, CA 93109
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Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Hope Ranch
3999 Via Lucero ViaSanta Barbara, CA 93110
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Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Cabana Island View Apartments
2100 Red Rose WaySanta Barbara, CA 93109
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2 Bedroom Apartments
121 W Arrellaga St
121 W Arrellaga StSanta Barbara, CA 93101
6545 Trigo Rd
GoletaCA93117
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.
6703 Del Playa, Unit OCEANFRONT Room A-2
6703 Del Playa
Isla VistaCA93117
6703 Del Playa Dr A-1
GoletaCA93117
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1 Bedroom Apartments
Embarcadero Apartments
833 Embarcadero Del MarIsla Vista, CA 93117
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La Loma Apartments
851 Camino PescaderoGoleta, CA 93117
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
The Beachwood
312 Ellwood Beach DrGoleta, CA 93117
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Studio to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Berkshire Terrace
6661 Berkshire TerGoleta, CA 93117
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1 Bedroom Apartments
Penthouse Apartments
6621 Abrego RdGoleta, CA 93117
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1 to 2 Bedroom Apartments
Carriage House - Park Place
796 Embarcadero del NorteGoleta, CA 93117
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.
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Santa Barbara, CA Local Guide
How much does it cost to rent an apartment in Santa Barbara?
| Bedroom | Average Rent | Cheapest Rent | Highest Rent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheap Santa Barbara Studio Apartments | $2,656 | $1,535 | $3,599 |
| Cheap Santa Barbara 1 Bedroom Apartments | $3,080 | $1,625 | $5,950 |
| Cheap Santa Barbara 2 Bedroom Apartments | $4,005 | $1,425 | $7,500 |
| Cheap Santa Barbara 3 Bedroom Apartments | $4,947 | $1,250 | $10,000+ |
| Cheap Santa Barbara 4 Bedroom Apartments | $5,423 | $1,100 | $10,000+ |
Note: Properties with the Total Monthly Price badge include all required fees. Hover over the badge for details.
Browse Top Apartments in Santa Barbara
See all Apartments in Santa BarbaraExplore Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara, CA Local Guide
Written By:
Staff Writer Local Guide Expert
- Santa Barbara Neighborhoods
- Nearby Cities
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- Local Counties
- School Districts
Cheapest Neighborhoods for Apartments in Santa Barbara, CA
Pricing Updated: 04/07/2026Current apartment rentals in the Santa Barbara, CA area range in price from $1,100 to $19,000 with an overall median price of $5,712. The three Santa Barbara neighborhoods with the lowest median rent pricing are Lower Riviera at $2,450, Riviera at $2,450, and Mission Canyon at $1,900. Here is today’s list of the top 10 neighborhoods with the lowest median pricing for Santa Barbara Apartments for rent:
| Neighborhood | Median Price | Min Price | Available Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower Riviera | $2,550 | $2,450 | 3 |
| Riviera | $2,550 | $2,450 | 3 |
| Mission Canyon | $3,601 | $1,900 | 9 |
| Cielito | $3,672 | $1,900 | 5 |
| Oak Park | $3,672 | $1,900 | 2 |
| Campanil | $3,795 | $1,900 | 9 |
| UC Santa Barbara | $3,922 | $1,100 | 72 |
| Coast Village | $4,500 | $4,500 | 1 |
| Eastside | $4,500 | $2,925 | 2 |
| Hitchcock | $4,875 | $1,900 | 14 |
Cheapest Available Santa Barbara Apartments for Rent
The cheapest available apartment rental in Santa Barbara, CA is a Studio unit found at The Loop in the Cabrillo Business Park neighborhood priced from $1,050. Breakpointe Coronado in the Downtown Goleta neighborhood has the second lowest priced unit, which is a 3 Beds apartment currently listed from $1,250. Here is today’s list of the most affordable Santa Barbara apartments for rent:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Priced From |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Loop | STUDIO - Affordable | Studio,1BA | $1,050 |
| Breakpointe Coronado | Breakpointe 3x2 | 3BR,2BA | $1,250 |
| Villa Flores Apartments | 1 Bedroom | 1BR,1BA | $2,450 |
| Hope Ranch | Plan 1A | 1BR,1BA | $2,507 |
| Rancho Franciscan Senior Apartments | The Poppy Plan | 1BR,1BA | $2,842 |
| Patterson Place | Coast | 1BR,1BA | $2,867 |
| Pacific Oaks | Koi | 1BR,1BA | $2,906 |
| Encina Meadows | Hummingbird | 1BR,1BA | $3,117 |
| Alena on Haley | Studio | Studio,1BA | $3,200 |
Best Value Apartments for Rent in Santa Barbara, CA
As of April 07, 2026 the best value apartment in the Santa Barbara area is the $0.66 price per square foot 5BR/5.5BA - Harbor Model at The Cove in the in the Cabrillo Business Park neighborhood starting from $1,600. The second greatest value Santa Barbara apartment is the Upgraded Townhome Model at La Colina Gardens starting at $4,900 with a $3.06 price per square foot in the Foothill neighborhood. Here is today’s list of the best values for Santa Barbara apartments based on price per square foot:
| Apartment Listing | Model Name | Bed/Bath | Price Per Sq.Ft. |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Cove | 5BR/5.5BA - Harbor | 5BR,5.5BA | $0.66 |
| La Colina Gardens | Upgraded Townhome | 3BR,2.5BA | $3.06 |
| 603 W Anapamu St | 603 W Anapamu St | 3BR,2.5BA | $3.76 |
| Arrive Los Carneros II | Two Bedroom Two Bath | 2BR,2BA | $4.04 |
| Tropicana Student Housing | Tropicana Gardens | 3BR,2BA | $2.01 |
| Tahitian Apartments | Tahitian 1x1 | 1BR,1BA | $1.77 |
| The Wave | 1 bed + 1 bath Upstaris | 1BR,1BA | $2.05 |
| Breakpointe Coronado | Coronado 1x1A | 1BR,1BA | $3.34 |
| The Loop | STUDIO - Double | Studio ,1BA | $3.60 |
| The Arroyo House Student Living. | Fiesta - Female | 3BR,1BA | $3.21 |
10 Hidden Costs of Renting You Should Budget for Before Signing a Lease
Avoid financial stress when renting. Learn about the 10 most common hidden costs—from pet fees to utilities—you must budget for before you sign a lease.
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Don't Settle: How to Negotiate Your Apartment Lease and Save Money
Discover the insider tips from an attorney and real estate agent on how to negotiate your next apartment lease. Find out what's on the table and what's not, so you can save money and get the best terms possible.
Read ArticleThe 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.
Read ArticleCash 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.
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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.
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.
Santa Barbara, CAPopulation: 91,350
Ranked #362
in US Census Population by City
Best Local Schools in Santa Barbara, CA
Montecito Union
Montecito Union Elementary School District
Public School - Grades K-5 (353)
10 out of 10
San Marcos Senior High
Santa Barbara Unified School District
Public School - Grades 9-12 (1926)
8 out of 10
La Colina Junior High
Santa Barbara Unified School District
Public School - Grades 6-8 (832)
8 out of 10
School data provided by Great Schools
Remember the 3 Rules of Real Estate:Location, Location, Location!
Explore Santa Barbara, CA Rentals by Map
See the most popular apartments and homes in Santa Barbara, CA
Frequently Asked Questions about Cheap Santa Barbara Apartments
What is a cheap apartment in Santa Barbara?
A cheap apartment is any apartment up to the 30% percentile of cost for the area, which in Santa Barbara is under $3,200.
What is the price of a cheap apartment in Santa Barbara?
The cheapest apartment in Santa Barbara is The Loop which is listed at $1,399, while the average apartment in Santa Barbara costs $5,712.
What types of apartments are the cheapest in Santa Barbara?
Student, low-income, and by-the-bed apartments are typically the cheapest rentals in most cities, though they require qualifying criteria to rent. There are 53 regular apartments in Santa Barbara that we think qualify as ‘cheap apartments’ that do not have special requirements to apply to rent.
How do the prices of cheap apartments compare to the average apartment in Santa Barbara?
Cheap apartments in Santa Barbara have an average cost of $1,596 which is $4,116 cheaper than the average rent for all rentals in Santa Barbara.
Expert Rental Resources
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.
Articles, How-To's, and Tips
Maximizing Your Refund: Essential Tax Tips for Renters
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
Other than tax professionals, I can’t think of anyone who looks forward to tax season. For everybody else, April is a stressful month to collect information and meet deadlines.
18 Must-Ask Rental Tour Questions That Reveal the Truth about a Property
Written by: Lauren Harrington
Renting your next home can feel thrilling and overwhelming at the same time.
A Renters Guide for Tips on Writing Your Notice for Not Renewing Your Apartment
Written by: Bob Mallory
Packing up everything you own to move is so stressful for many that ending your apartment lease can feel like a small or unimportant task. Ending your lease involves more than simply turning over your keys on the last day.
Renting with Roommates: Realistic Expectations for Shared Lease
Written by: Christine Leonard, Esq.
Given the high costs for housing, I have found that many people are looking for a roommate to share expenses. These arrangements can increase opportunities for more desirable and larger spaces.