University of California-Santa Barbara, CA
Population 11,634 · California
About University of California-Santa Barbara, CA
University of California-Santa Barbara is a mid-sized city in California with a population of 11,634 residents. The median household income is $75,000 per year, which is above the national average. The median age in University of California-Santa Barbara is 19.9 years.
Housing in University of California-Santa Barbara has a median home value of $452,600 and median monthly rent of $1,512. Of the 721 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 116 owner-occupied and 556 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in University of California-Santa Barbara is 14.5% and the poverty rate is 15.1%. 76.5% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 15.2 minutes.
Cost of Living in University of California-Santa Barbara, CA
Compared to national averages, University of California-Santa Barbara has a median household income of $75,000 (0% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $452,600, which is 85% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,512 is 30% above the US average of $1,163. Within California, University of California-Santa Barbara's income is 23% below the state average of $97,829, and home values are 31% below the state median of $653,874.
Why Live in University of California-Santa Barbara, CA?
University of California-Santa Barbara offers a well-educated community where 76.5% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and short commute times averaging just 15.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($75,000) that falls below the national average, and a competitive housing market where the typical home costs $452,600. However, University of California-Santa Barbara’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
University of California-Santa Barbara has a population of 11,634 with a median age of 19.9 years. Compare University of California-Santa Barbara with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in California.
Similar Cities Near University of California-Santa Barbara
Cities in California with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alum Rock | 11,619 | $111,976 | $880,000 | Compare |
| Lakeland Village | 11,587 | $83,371 | $429,000 | Compare |
| Signal Hill | 11,563 | $102,303 | $725,500 | Compare |
| View Park-Windsor Hills | 11,744 | $120,604 | $1,123,300 | Compare |
| La Riviera | 11,503 | $91,111 | $433,400 | Compare |
| Los Alamitos | 11,784 | $98,539 | $1,003,900 | Compare |
| Half Moon Bay | 11,454 | $153,199 | $1,467,000 | Compare |
| Home Gardens | 11,430 | $92,344 | $498,800 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in California
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare University of California-Santa Barbara With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about University of California-Santa Barbara
What is the population of University of California-Santa Barbara, CA?
The population of University of California-Santa Barbara, CA is 11,634 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in University of California-Santa Barbara?
The median household income in University of California-Santa Barbara, CA is $75,000 per year.
What is the median home value in University of California-Santa Barbara?
The median home value in University of California-Santa Barbara, CA is $452,600.
What is the average rent in University of California-Santa Barbara?
The median monthly rent in University of California-Santa Barbara, CA is $1,512.
What is the unemployment rate in University of California-Santa Barbara?
The unemployment rate in University of California-Santa Barbara, CA is 14.5%.