Looking for the perfect beach town with friendly residents and endless sunshine? Maybe you should consider moving to Summerland. A census-designated place located outside of Santa Barbara, Summerland is known for its small-town feel and outdoor recreation.
It was founded in 1883 by real estate speculator and spiritualist H.L. Williams, who named the town Summerlin after his religious movement's name for heaven. Today, Summerlin is a great place to live for residents seeking Pacific Ocean views, outdoor activities, and a calm pace of life. Here is a closer look at what living in Summerland, CA is really like.
Where Is Summerland?
Summerland, California, is in Santa Barbara County within the Santa Maria-Santa Barbara metro area. The town is located directly on a set of coastal bluffs beside the ocean. Route 101 passes through the community offering residents living in Summerland, CA easy access to nearby communities. It's adjacent to the cities of Santa Barbara and Carpinteria, as well as the unincorporated community of Montecito.
It's 6.2 miles or an 11-minute drive from Summerland to Santa Barbara, CA.
Summerland Population & Demographics
According to data provided by the Census Bureau, the Summerland population is 1,274. However, the number of residents living in Summerland, CA has declined over the past few years and decreased by 12% since 2010. Although it has a higher population density than the surrounding areas, with 912 residents per square mile. The average household size is 2.2 people.
Summerland is an older, affluent community with a large population of retirees. The median age is 53.4, and 33% of the Summerland CA population is 65 or older. The median household income is $128,331, which is 40% higher than the rest of California.
The population is also predominantly male: 61% of people living in Summerland, CA are men, while 39% are women. It's also a well-educated community: 94% of residents living in Summerland, CA have a high school diploma, while 52% have a bachelor's degree or higher.
The racial and ethnic breakdown is 61% White (non-Hispanic), 25% Hispanic or Latino, 7% Asian, and 2.4% two or more races. The foreign-born population is 5.5%.
Is Summerland, CA Safe?
Living in Summerland, CA is very safe. The total crime rate is only 399 incidents per 100,000 people, which makes it 83% safer than the average US city and 150% safer than the average city in California. The violent crime rate is also 70% lower than the national average, while the property crime rate is 83% lower.
The Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office is responsible for controlling crime in Summerland. Its total workforce is 168 law enforcement personnel, including 114 officers and 54 civilian employees.
Things to Do in Summerland
From parks to wineries, you'll still find a wide variety of fun things to do in Summerland, CA. You'll find a variety of great Summerland shops scattered around Lillie Avenue and the 101, including the Well Summerland, The Sacred Space, and Porch. The Montecito Court Mall is also close by for more retail options. Outside of shopping, here are a few additional attractions residents living in Summerland, CA should check out.
One of the best things to do in Summerland with kids is to visit the local beach, which is the perfect spot for a weekend outing. It has a playground, picnic tables, BBQ grills, and a dog-washing station.
Beach Access, Summerland, CA 93067
Summerland Winery is a boutique wine store and tasting room that hosts clubs and local events for wine aficionados living in Summerland, CA. It's also dog-friendly, and visitors are encouraged to bring a canine companion.
2330 Lillie Ave, Summerland, CA 93067 (805) 565-9463
Summerland Greenwell Preserve
The Greenwell Preserve is a two-acre protected habitat with hiking trails, ponds, and wetlands that is a fun destination for nature lovers.
2710 Montecito Ranch Pl, Summerland, CA 93067
Additional Summerland Attractions
Looking for more events and Summerland family activities? The Santa Barbara County Parks Department has a list of facilities available on its website.
Summerland Restaurants
You'll also find an interesting selection of restaurants in Summerland serving everything from fine dining to comfort food. Here are a few of the top Summerland CA restaurants.
If you're craving seafood and steak, The Nugget is one of the best restaurants in Summerland, CA. Its extensive menu includes delicious entrees like lamb chops and buttermilk fried chicken.
2318 Lillie Ave, Summerland, CA 93067 (805) 969-6135
Summerland Beach Cafe is a local eatery near the coast that serves breakfast all day and an interesting assortment of salads, sandwiches, burgers, tacos, and more.
2294 Lillie Ave, Summerland, CA 93067 (805) 969-1019
Average Rent & Homes for Sale in Summerland, CA
Being located on the coast in Southern California, the cost of living in Summerland, CA is higher than the rest of the country. However, it offers gorgeous beachfront homes and fantastic weather. According to Redfin, the price of houses for sale in Summerland, CA is $4.29 million. The median price per square foot of Summerland, CA, real estate is $1350.
The majority of residents living in Summerland, CA own a home. About 77% of Summerland real estate is owner-occupied, while 33% is rented out. However, renters will find a few options available. Rentcafe shows the average rent in Summerland is $3,030 per month.
In Summerland, 14% of rentals are in high-rise buildings with more than 50 units, 65% are small-scale complexes, and 20% are single-family homes. Rents start around $2400 for a studio and go up to $5300 for two or more bedrooms.
Jobs in Summerland
As a small, seaside town with a large population of retirees, living in Summerland CA doesn’t offer many economic opportunities outside of tourism and retail. However, Santa Barbara County is a bustling area full of industry. According to local employment data, key industries in the area include agriculture & wine, business support services, healthcare, technology, and environmental studies.
While local opportunities are available, many professionals and businesses are increasingly exploring flexible hiring solutions and remote work models. Using a reliable California PEO company for hiring and workforce management can help businesses streamline payroll, compliance, and employee benefits while expanding their teams across the state.
Major employers offering jobs in Summerland:
Payscale shows that the average salary in the Santa Barbara area is $88,000 per year. From teacher to barista, those looking for employment will find an interesting selection of Summerland jobs available.
Summerland Schools
Students living in Summerland, CA will receive an excellent education. Carpinteria USD is the main Summerland School District. The only public school located in the community is Summerland Elementary School, which serves grades K-5. Older students will attend Carpinteria Middle and High School.
Carpinteria High School has a good reputation for academic performance, with a 97% graduation rate and 42% AP participation rate. There are no private schools in town, although a few in Santa Barbara serve students living in Summerland. UC Santa Barbara and Santa Barbara City College are also close by for higher education. Residents can also stop by the Montecito Branch of the Santa Barbara Public Library System for books and public events.
Summerland Statistics & Information
- Summerland County: Santa Barbara
- Summerland Area: 1.99 square miles
- Summerland zip code: 93067
- Summerland area code: 805
- Summerland Elevation: 121 ft
- Summerland Time Zone: Pacific Time Zone (UTC-7 and -8)
- Closest airport to Summerland: The Santa Barbara Airport (SBA) is 15 miles away.
Map of Summerland, CA
Explore more things to do, such as Summerland restaurants and activities, with this map.
Planning a move to this breathtaking seaside town? Now that you know everything you need to know about living in Summerland, CA, you’re ready to make the decision. When the time comes, you can trust our expert Summerland movers to make your moving day easy and efficient. Call (866) 684-7336 today for a free quote.
