Long a haven for the well-known and well-heeled, Montecito remains a bastion of relaxed luxury and privileged residents. Nestled between a strip of pristine beaches and the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains adjacent to Santa Barbara, the village of approximately 10,000 year-round and part-time residents is one of the most coveted beachside communities in all of California. Famous for its large and sometimes historic estates valued in the tens of millions of dollars, Montecito does offer modest cottages, bungalows and ranch-style homes – all priced well over $1 million.
Visitors from throughout the U.S., as well as those from Europe and Asia, arrive in Montecito to enjoy a holiday at the esteemed Four Seasons Biltmore Resort & Spa or renowned San Ysidro Ranch and never want to leave. In fact, it’s not uncommon for many of those world travelers to purchase a 2nd, 3rd, 4th, or 5th home here. A legacy of elite residents began in the early 1900’s when celebrities, business moguls and even international royalty began making Montecito their primary or vacation home.
Today, in addition to its natural beauty, impressive real estate, fine dining, distinctive shopping and galleries, this idyllic community offers top-notch public and private facilities. While commercial activities are centered in two charming commercial hubs, referred to by locals as the “upper village” and “lower village,” there are also two public and five private schools, as well as private Westmont College. All are ranked among the finest learning institutions in California. There are three private golf courses, a private tennis club, and a beautiful and popular public park.