Santa Barbara is one of the most expensive housing markets in the US. There are
very few good options for affordable housing outside of university-run dormitories
and apartments. UCSB residential halls, family housing, undergraduate and graduate
apartments are less expensive than privately owned apartments, houses, and rooms
in houses -- but availability in UCSB housing is limited. You must apply for UCSB
housing at the earliest possible date before your arrival in the US.
If university housing is unavailable to you, the
UCSB Community Housing Office can assist you in locating private accommodations off campus. To minimize the cost
of private housing most students share apartments or houses. Private homeowners
in the Goleta and Santa Barbara areas often rent rooms to students and faculty.
Rooms in private homes allow access to a bathroom and kitchen, but these areas will
be shared with other renters or the homeowner’s family. The information below can
give you an idea about what to expect in terms of housing expenses. Isla Vista is
a residential area adjacent to UCSB and tends to be more expensive than nearby Goleta
because it is in walking distance of campus. The city of Santa Barbara is the most
expensive because of the high real estate values.
The Costs of Living in Santa Barbara
2007 Average prices for Apartments in Isla Vista, Goleta and Santa Barbara
|
Room Type |
Isla Vista |
Goleta |
Santa Barbara |
|
Studio |
$943 |
$868 |
$1042 |
|
1 Bedroom |
$1100 |
$1242 |
$1341 |
|
2 Bedroom |
$1940 |
$1423 |
$1649 |
|
3 Bedroom |
$2963 |
$2395 |
$2650 |
|
Room in Home* |
$685 |
$644 |
$675 |
*Rooms in private (non student) homes usually include utilities.
Planning Your Budget
- First month’s rent and security deposit
- Last month’s rent to be paid in advance (in some cases)
- Start-up costs for utility deposits, household necessities, and linens
- Allocations for transportation, entertainment, and clothing
Note: Most apartments in Isla Vista, Goleta, and Santa Barbara are unfurnished.
- Food costs average $382.50 per month
- Utility costs average $100.00 per month for apartments (Gas, electricity and
cable)
- Water and trash service are usually included in the rent
- Transportation: Students usually bike or walk to campus from Isla Vista. Bus service
is only free to registered students at UCSB (not faculty or visiting scholars) and
available throughout Santa Barbara and Goleta