If you’re planning a trip to the Central Coast or considering a move to the area, exploring the cities near Santa Barbara opens the door to beauty, culture, and charm all within a quick drive of the city. Situated between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific, the Santa Barbara metro area offers both busy urban spots and smaller towns near Santa Barbara CA.
The region includes several cities in Santa Barbara County, each with its own character, from coastal towns with panoramic ocean views to inland communities surrounded by rolling hills and wine country. Known for its small-town atmosphere, thriving arts scene, and abundance of outdoor recreation, this part of California offers easy access to hiking trails, beaches, and scenic drives. To help you find the best place to call home, let’s explore the towns and cities near Santa Barbara.
Largest Cities Near Santa Barbara
Are you on the hunt for cities near Santa Barbara that will give you a fast-paced, big-city vibe? There are plenty of cities close to Santa Barbara that will allow you to enjoy a big-city atmosphere with plenty of fun things to do and new attractions to check out.
These are a few cities near Santa Barbara CA with a population of over 32,000.
Goleta | 10.2 Miles From Santa Barbara
Goleta, one of the standout cities near Santa Barbara, offers a close-knit community and a relaxed vibe just minutes from downtown. Known for its beautiful but expensive homes and low crime rates, it’s among the most desirable Santa Barbara County cities.
When living here, you can explore Goleta Beach Park, hike the bluffs at Ellwood Mesa, or tour the historic Stow House. With the Santa Barbara Airport nearby, Goleta is also one of the most convenient cities near Santa Barbara for frequent travelers.
- Population: 32,611
- County: Santa Barbara County
- Median home price: $1.33 million
- Crime: 1,774 crimes per 100,000 people (37.6% lower than state average and 23.7% lower than national average)
Oxnard | 37.7 Miles From Santa Barbara
Living in Oxnard means enjoying the largest city in Ventura County and one of the best cities near Santa Barbara. With a population of 200,616, Oxnard is full of sandy beaches, scenic bike paths, and beautiful art galleries in its charming downtown area.
Families here appreciate the well-rated public and private schools, while outdoor lovers can kayak in Channel Islands Harbor or surf at Silver Strand Beach. Though not one of the towns in Santa Barbara, Oxnard’s coastal charm and accessibility make it a popular choice for commuters.
- Population: 200,616
- County: Ventura County
- Median home price: $790,000
- Crime: 2,355 crimes per 100,000 people (17.0% lower than state average and 3.0% higher than national average)
Camarillo | 43.6 Miles From Santa Barbara
Located just inland from the coast, Camarillo is one of the most inviting cities near Santa Barbara, known for its sunny climate and scenic setting. Residents enjoy outdoor recreational activities like hiking in Camarillo Grove Park and exploring nearby beaches.
The Camarillo Premium Outlets draw shoppers from all over the region, while local farms and wineries add a small-town charm. Housing here ranged from mid-century ranch homes to modern estates, making Camarillo one of the most versatile cities near Santa Barbara.
- Population: 69,881
- County: Ventura County
- Median home price: $880,000
- Crime: 1,340 crimes per 100,000 people (52.9% lower than state average and 42.3% lower than national average)
Moorpark | 54.8 Miles From Santa Barbara
Moorpark, one of the most charming cities near Santa Barbara, offers both suburban comfort and easy access to big-city amenities. Here, you’ll find a vibrant cultural scene as well as monthly community events, farmers markets, and local theater productions.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and golfing, while families appreciate top-rated schools like Moorpark High School and Arroyo West Elementary. Although it’s not directly on the coast, Moorpark’s peaceful neighborhoods make it one of the best towns around Santa Barbara for those seeking space and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Population: 35,621
- County: Ventura County
- Median home price: $1.09 million
- Crime: 650 crimes per 100,000 people (77.1% lower than state average and 72.0% lower than national average)
Lompoc | 55.1 Miles From Santa Barbara
Located in Santa Barbara County, Lompoc is one of the most affordable cities near Santa Barbara, with a median home price of $582,000. Known for its flower fields and murals, it offers plenty to see and do. Wine enthusiasts can explore tasting rooms and vineyards along the Sta. Rita Hills Wine Trail, while outdoor lovers can hike in nearby preserves or visit Jalama Beach.
- Population: 43,594
- County: Santa Barbara County
- Median home price: $582,000
- Crime: 2,454 crimes per 100,000 people (13.7% lower than state average and 5.6% higher than national average)
Thousand Oaks | 56.2 Miles From Santa Barbara
Thousand Oaks, one of the best cities near Santa Barbara, is known for its safe neighborhoods and family-friendly atmosphere. When living here, you can enjoy horseback riding in nearby canyons, hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains, shopping at The Oaks Mall, or taking a scenic drive to Pismo Beach.
Housing options here range from charming ranch-style homes to luxury estates to cozy apartments, making it easy for everyone to find something that works for them.
- Population: 124,229
- County: Ventura County
- Median home price: $1.13 million
- Crime: 1,164 crimes per 100,000 people (59.1% lower than state average and 49.9% lower than national average)
Simi Valley | 63.8 Miles From Santa Barbara
Simi Valley, one of the most welcoming cities near Santa Barbara, offers a youthful energy that appeals to families and young professionals alike. Known for its scenic hiking trails and several parks, it’s also the perfect spot for those who love the outdoors. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Corriganville Park are just a few of the most popular attractions in the area.
Residents living in this area are quite affluent, with a median household income of $117,351. This is about 25% higher than the California average of $95,521.
- Population: 125,778
- County: Ventura County
- Median home price: $843,500
- Crime: 946 crimes per 100,000 people (66.7% lower than state average and 59.3% lower than national average)
Santa Maria | 64.3 Miles From Santa Barbara
If you’re searching for cities near Santa Barbara, then look no further than Santa Maria. Known for its Santa Maria-style barbecue, the city is home to a thriving wine scene with plenty of vineyards and tasting rooms nearby. Additionally, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities here, such as Los Flores Ranch Park and Preisker Park.
Just a short drive from beaches and other towns near Santa Barbara CA, Santa Maria is in a very convenient location. It’s also one of the most affordable cities near Santa Barbara, with a median home price of $661,500, which is lower than the California average of $866,900, according to Redfin.
- Population: 111,346
- County: Santa Barbara County
- Median home price: $661,500
- Crime: 3,425 crimes per 100,000 people (20.5% higher than state average and 47.4% higher than national average)
Other Towns Near Santa Barbara CA
Are you more interested in towns close to Santa Barbara with a smaller population? The following cities near Santa Barbara are just a short distance away from the city, with a population of 12,000 to 32,000.
Carpinteria is home to Carpinteria State Beach, which is often called the “World’s Safest Beach” due to its location shielding it from the typical Pacific Northwest swells. Isla Vista, just 13.1 miles away, is located on the south-facing portion of the Santa Barbara County coast and is known for its student-oriented culture as the home of the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Located in the Santa Clara River Valley, you’ll find Santa Paula, which offers easy access to numerous vineyards and is also nicknamed the “Citrus Capital of the World.”
Cities & Towns Near Santa Barbara CA
These are a few smaller towns near Santa Barbara CA.
| Cities & Towns Near Santa Barbara CA (10,000 - 32,000 population) |
County |
Population |
Distance From Santa Barbara |
| Carpinteria |
Santa Barbara County |
12,876 |
11.3 miles |
| Isla Vista |
Santa Barbara County |
13,717 |
13.1 miles |
| Port Hueneme |
Ventura County |
21,325 |
39.9 miles |
| Santa Paula |
Ventura County |
31,786 |
43.6 miles |
| Fillmore |
Ventura County |
17,216 |
52.3 miles |
Map of Cities Near Santa Barbara
Check out these cities and towns near Santa Barbara CA.
Small Cities and Towns Near Santa Barbara
If you’re looking for charming cities near Santa Barbara, several small communities with fewer than 8,000 residents offer unique character and scenery. In the Ojai Valley, Mira Monte and Ojai are surrounded by the Los Padres National Forest, with Ojai being known for the luxurious Ojai Valley Inn and artsy downtown, while Mira Monte offers easy access to the Santa Ynez River and outdoor recreation.
In the Santa Ynez Valley, Solvang stands out with its half-timbered houses, windmills, Danish museums, and unique architecture, along with wine tasting and boutique shopping. Nearby Oak View offers a peaceful riverside setting perfect for kayaking and fishing. Westlake Village, though more upscale, provides a small town feel with lakefront dining, boutique shops, and scenic trails, making it one of the most picturesque cities near Santa Barbara California.
| Small Cities & Towns Near Santa Barbara CA (Under 10,000 Population) |
County |
Population |
Distance From Santa Barbara |
| Mira Monte |
Ventura County |
7,301 |
30.3 miles |
| Ojai |
Ventura County |
7,563 |
33.6 miles |
| Solvang |
Santa Barbara County |
5,988 |
33.9 miles |
| Oak View |
Ventura County |
5,984 |
36 miles |
| Westlake Village |
Los Angeles County |
7,593 |
58.5 miles |
Major Cities Near Santa Barbara
While the cities around Santa Barbara are fun to explore, you’ll also find many major cities near Santa Barbara to check out. From major California cities like Los Angeles to out-of-state gems like Las Vegas, there are plenty of fantastic destinations for a weekend trip. These are the major cities near Santa Barbara with a population of over 400,000.
Major Cities Close to Santa Barbara
| City |
Population |
Distance From Santa Barbara |
| Los Angeles, CA |
3.87 million |
94.8 miles |
| Bakersfield, CA |
417,468 |
147 miles |
| San Diego, CA |
1.4 million |
215 miles |
| Fresno, CA |
550,105 |
253 miles |
| San Francisco, CA |
827,526 |
325 miles |
| Las Vegas, NV |
678,922 |
348 miles |
| Sacramento, CA |
535,798 |
389 miles |
| Phoenix, AX |
1.67 million |
467 miles |
| Salt Lake City, UT |
217,783 |
777 miles |
Santa Barbara Cities FAQ
What Is the Closest City to Santa Barbara?
Out of all the cities near Santa Barbara CA, the closest one is Goleta, which is 10.2 miles away.
What Major Cities Are Near Santa Barbara?
There are several major cities near Santa Barbara, including:
- Los Angeles, CA
- Bakersfield, CA
- San Diego, CA
- Fresno, CA
- San Francisco, CA
- Las Vegas, NV
- Sacramento, CA
- Phoenix, AX
- Salt Lake City, UT
Which Cities Are Within 30 Minutes of Santa Barbara?
The cities near Santa Barbara California, within a 30-minute drive include Goleta, Carpinteria, Isla Vista, and Mira Monte.
Ready to Call One of These Cities Near Santa Barbara Home?
All of these cities near Santa Barbara are fantastic places to call home. Once you’ve explored all of the cities and towns near Santa Barbara CA, it’s time to find the perfect spot for you. The experts at Movegreen are ready to make your move a great one, offering fully customizable moving services from start to finish. To discuss your move and get started with a free quote, give our Santa Barbara movers a call at (866) 684-7336.
