Cost of Living in Santa Barbara, CA
Cost indexes, living wages, and fair market rents — 2024 Data
Cost of Living Overview
Overall Index
235.7
100 = national avg
+135.7 vs national average
Living Wage (1 Adult)
$103,692
per year
Living Wage (Family of 4)
$245,089
per year
Cost Index by Category
Housing400.0
Food127.7
Transportation155.4
Healthcare122.2
Utilities176.6
100 = national average. Higher = more expensive.
Fair Market Rent
Source: HUD1 Bedroom
$2,746
per month
2 Bedroom
$3,124
per month
The overall cost of living index in Santa Barbara is 235.7, which is 135.7% above the national average. Housing costs are above the national average at an index of 400.0. A single adult needs to earn approximately $103,692 per year to cover basic expenses.