This city just next door to Santa Barbara is an up-and-coming paradise that’s quickly becoming a popular place to spend time by the beach! With gorgeous natural beauty, pristine beaches, and lots of great shopping opportunities, Goleta is a wonderful place to call home.
Homes in Goleta are stunning, and it’s a fabulous place to find a deal—many properties are priced lower than other areas of Santa Barbara. From updated and comfortable condo units to sprawling ranch homes in the Goleta Foothills, there are plenty of beautiful homes close to the Pacific Ocean for you to fall in love with. It is highly advised that you contact a Goleta real estate agent if you're interested in getting your own slice of this paradise.
Due to the area’s natural beauty, Goleta is a peaceful place to call home. The area is very family-oriented, with great schools and lots of opportunities to get out into nature. Since Goleta’s boost in popularity is relatively recent, it’s not known as a major tourist destination, so you can enjoy the fabulous amenities without getting stuck in a crowd!
Families thrive in Goleta—they enjoy the amazing outdoor recreational activities, beautiful beaches, and stellar school system. Due to its proximity to the Santa Barbara Municipal Airport, the Amtrak Goleta station, and the 101, the area is also great for commuters or people who frequently travel for business.
Goleta is home to three major shopping centers, which allow you to browse your favorite retailers and find some fun new shops to enjoy! The Camino Real Marketplace is one of Goleta’s best places for shopping. The popular Hollister Brewing Co. is located nearby, offering cold drinks and delicious food. Dine at Ai Sushi or enjoy stunning ocean views from the Ritz-Carlton’s outdoor fine dining restaurant, The Bistro. New restaurants and shops are added regularly.
Enjoy a variety of family-friendly outdoor activities, from paddleboarding at Goleta Beach to biking along Obern Trail or Lake Los Carneros. Goleta hosts great events throughout the year, from musical performances to yoga classes. The kids will love going on nature walks through the incredible Butterfly Preserve, located right in Goleta.
Goleta is known for its excellent schools within the Goleta Union School District. Top educational opportunities include:
Goleta, CA, often referred to as the “Good Land,” is a vibrant coastal community just west of Santa Barbara, offering a balance of suburban comfort, natural beauty, and a relaxed lifestyle. Known for its family-friendly neighborhoods, excellent schools, and proximity to the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), Goleta’s real estate market features a mix of single-family homes, modern townhouses, and condos. Many properties offer mountain or ocean views, while others are nestled in peaceful neighborhoods with access to parks and trails.
The demand for homes in Goleta remains strong due to its thriving local economy, beautiful coastal setting, and reputation as a safe and welcoming community. With easy access to beaches, hiking trails, shopping centers, and business hubs, Goleta provides a well-rounded lifestyle for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Whether you’re seeking a primary residence, an investment property, or a vacation retreat, Goleta offers diverse real estate opportunities in a highly desirable location.
What is the climate like in Goleta?
Goleta enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures year-round. Summers are warm and dry, while winters are cool and comfortable, making it perfect for those who love outdoor living.
What outdoor activities are available in Goleta?
Residents can enjoy hiking in the nearby Santa Ynez Mountains, surfing and relaxing at Goleta Beach, or exploring scenic bike paths. Golfing at Sandpiper Golf Club and birdwatching at the Goleta Slough are also popular pastimes.
What makes Goleta appealing to families?
Goleta offers top-rated schools, safe neighborhoods, and abundant parks and recreational activities. Its family-friendly atmosphere, along with access to UCSB resources, makes it an ideal place to raise children.
How is the arts and culture scene in Goleta?
While Goleta has a more laid-back vibe, it benefits from being just minutes away from Santa Barbara’s rich cultural offerings. Locally, residents enjoy community events, farmers markets, and music festivals, as well as cultural events hosted by UCSB.
Is Goleta a good place for retirees?
Yes, Goleta is an excellent choice for retirees seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle. With its mild climate, access to healthcare, scenic beauty, and welcoming community, it provides an ideal environment for retirement living.
• Montecito
• Santa Barbara
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32,693 people live in Goleta, where the median age is 35.5 and the average individual income is $52,610. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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There's plenty to do around Goleta, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including 30 Acres, Bake Your Day SB, and Macomber Karate Martial Arts.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
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| Dining | 1.59 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Dining | 2.01 miles | 16 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.7 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.45 miles | 6 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 1.34 miles | 9 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.82 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 1.43 miles | 7 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
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Goleta has 12,135 households, with an average household size of 2.68. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Goleta do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 32,693 people call Goleta home. The population density is 4,163.06 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
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