“Sandy toes, sun-kissed nose, and a heart full of Santa Barbara love.”

Despite its famous attractions, Santa Barbara has maintained the charm and coziness of a small, yet cosmopolitan town. Its size makes it easy to get around, fostering a sense of community among residents. The welcoming atmosphere, charming boutiques, quaint cafes, and local farmers' markets contribute to making this one of the most coveted and desirable places to live.

Santa Barbara County, one of the original counties of California, was formed in 1850 at the same time as statehood.  Located on a pristine stretch of California's central coastline, Santa Barbara brings together the Golden State's Spanish influence, laid- back vibe, and upscale sensibility in a way few places can.  California was settled by the Spanish hundreds of years ago, evidenced by the amazing architecture throughout the area.  One of the most lasting and beautiful examples is the Old Mission Santa Barbara founded in 1786.

So why is Santa Barbara County so appealing?  A few quick facts about the area might shed some light.  Santa Barbara Country has 25 beaches, 55 parks, 50+ museums and galleries, 200+ vineyards, and 300 days of sunshine every year.  Combined with its Mediterranean climate, coastal mountains, verdant valleys and scenic coastline, Santa Barbara is a virtual playground for outdoor recreation opportunities.   World-class wines, a thriving culinary scene, and sustainable living initiatives make this area one of the most desirable for living, working, and playing, and raising a family. Webster could run out of adjectives trying to describe Santa Barbara…seductive, playful, romantic, gorgeous, easygoing, relaxed, sophisticated, cultured, friendly, peaceful, re-energizing and invigorating are just a few descriptors that come to mind.  No matter the time of year, you can expect a flurry of fun for all ages.  From wine tasting, film debuts, musical performances, outdoor adventures, food festivals and art exhibitions, Santa Barbara has an event or festival for every palate.

The area features a beautiful low mountain range unlike most others in the world, because it runs from east to west, instead of north to south.  Their odd orientation results in some of the best land for harvesting wine grapes, with hills and the valleys speckled by vineyards and wineries  Here, some of the most delicious and unique wines in the world are created making Santa Barbara County an award winning wine region.  This same area is also a biological hotspot, abundant with flora and fauna, because of the stunning diversity of microclimates and unique ecosystems created as the coast transitions into the Santa Ynez Mountains.

The County is well known for its strong sense of community, prime agricultural land, award-winning wineries, and attractive cultural and tourism opportunities. However, Santa Barbara County also touts its talented and highly skilled workforce, and growing business sectors, from high tech to health care to design.  Quality institutions like the University of California Santa Barbara (UCSB) and Vandenberg Airforce Base continue to attract high-quality individuals to the County.  It is these attributes that attract and retain businesses in the area.

Despite its famous attractions, Santa Barbara has maintained the charm and coziness of a small, yet cosmopolitan town. Its size makes it easy to get around, fostering a sense of community among residents. The welcoming atmosphere, charming boutiques, quaint cafes, and local farmers' markets all contribute to making Santa Barbara one of the shining jewels of Southern California.