Montecito

Community defined by understated elegance, privacy, and natural beauty

Welcome to Montecito

Soak up the California sunshine here

Montecito is located just east of the city of Santa Barbara, with parts of the community built on the lower foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountain range. With a population of just under 10,000 residents, this semi-rural community is filled with historic architecture, luscious gardens, and stretches of stunning coastline. 

The origins of Montecito can be traced back to the 1860s when Italian settlers began arriving in the area. They found that the area resembled Italy and, as a result, started building farms and gardens similar to what they had left behind. Since then, Montecito has continued to flourish into a highly sought-after place to call home.

What to Love

  • Small-town charm 
  • Conveniently located near Santa Barbara
  • Access to nature

People & Lifestyle

Montecito is known for being an affluent and illustrious community. It is spread over only eight square miles, but these miles are filled with magnificent estates nestled on spacious lots. 

The majority of individuals who reside here are well-known entertainment and corporate professionals. A handful of mega-celebrities also live here, including long-time resident Oprah Winfrey. However, retirees and families also call this elite community home. Those who are lucky enough to live here will fall in love with the ocean breeze, idyllic scenery, peaceful neighborhoods, and private lifestyle.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

When it comes to dining, shopping, and entertainment, there’s plenty to enjoy here! For a dining experience like no other, make reservations at Lucky’s. This upscale dining establishment features steak, seafood, martinis in a chic space that alludes to old Hollywood glamour. If you prefer pasta and pizzas, head over to Tre Lune. This refined restaurant features an authentic Italian menu in an old-school, celebratory dining hall. 

Montecito is filled with a wealth of local boutiques that are worth exploring. For example, Silverhorn specializes in fine jewelry and loose gems. The Montecito Village Shopping Center is also there to meet all of your needs. Here you will find everything from antique shops, to flower shops, to local retailers.

Enjoy a staycation at the Rosewood Miramar Beach. This four-star luxury hotel is nestled right on the water and guarantees a memorable stay.

Things to Do

Montecito might be considered a small town, but it is far from boring. This vibrant beach community has plenty to offer its lucky residents. Spend your weeks soaking up the sunshine at Butterfly Beach. This popular beach features a bike path that is bordered by flowers, which draw butterflies to the area. Consider strolling through Lotusland, which is a botanical garden. In your time here, you will be inspired and educated about the importance of plants.

If you’re looking to connect with nature, head over to Tangerine Falls Trail. Located in Montecito, this trail is spread over 2.2-miles and features a 100-foot waterfall. Hot Springs Canyon is another great option for hiking. Rated as moderate, this hike features wonderful hot springs that make this hike worthwhile.

Schools

Montecito is home to some excellent schools. Top educational institutions here include: 

  • Montecito Union School
  • Cold Spring School
  • Crane Country Day School
  • Laguna Blanca School
  • Westmont College

 

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Overview for Montecito, CA

8,494 people live in Montecito, where the median age is 49.2 and the average individual income is $117,908. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

8,494

Total Population

49.2 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$117,908

Average individual Income

Demographics and Employment Data for Montecito, CA

Montecito has 3,207 households, with an average household size of 2.3. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Montecito do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 8,494 people call Montecito home. The population density is 925.58 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

8,494

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

49.2

Median Age

45.15 / 54.85%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
3,207

Total Households

2.3

Average Household Size

$117,908

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Montecito, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Montecito. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating
PRIVATE
K - 8th
No rating available
Our Lady Of Mount Carmel School
PRIVATE
PreK - 8th
No rating available
PUBLIC
K - 6th
5/5
PUBLIC
K - 6th
5/5

Around Montecito, CA

There's plenty to do around Montecito, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

43
Car-Dependent
Walking Score
20
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including Healthy Warrior Meal Prep, Gipsy Hill Bakery, and Meritage Wine Market - Santa Barbara.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 4.14 miles 14 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 4.84 miles 7 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 4.48 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 4.06 miles 14 reviews 5/5 stars
Shopping 3.83 miles 20 reviews 5/5 stars
Shopping 1.53 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars

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