Community Spotlight
Montecito
The "Little Mountain" On the Pacific
call anytime: (805) 350-6533
January 2022 Data
The Lifestyle
Sunny days, ocean breezes, beautiful scenery, and the pleasant pursuit of the high life.
Just east of Santa Barbara, Montecito’s eight square miles are flush with lavish estates, luxe compounds, and secluded manors. Affluent families and individuals—including the likes of mega-celebrities like long-time resident Oprah Winfrey—call this seaside sanctum home. Built into the oak- and eucalyptus-laden foothills of the Santa Ynez mountains featuring cascades, creeks, forests, and amazing ocean views. Montecito (means “little mountain” in Spanish) also boasts several world-class resorts, top-of-the-line schools, country clubs, and a selection of high-end shops and restaurants.
The Neighbors
A well-heeled crowd of CEOs, entrepreneurs, and Hollywood stars, drawn to the neighborhood’s privacy and beauty. Montecito’s rolodex includes luminaries like Jeff Lo and Ellen DeGeneres, alongside an impressive history of visitors and former residents. Here, millionaires and celebrities are treated like regular folks. The neighborhood is also an attractive spot for affluent retirees, with over 20% of the 10,000-odd residents over the age of 65.
What to Expect
An elite locale of understated elegance filled with quiet streets and gated estates. Montecito may be home to the wealthy, but it’s not at all flashy or gaudy. Residential streets are lushly tree-lined, estate entrances discreet, and the main streets’ bars, restaurants, and shops maintain a casual, relaxed vibe.
The Appeal
There’s plenty of places to see and be seen, from the Biltmore’s Bella Vista restaurant to celeb-studded Butterfly Beach. Locals take advantage of the distinguished Four Seasons Biltmore Hotel’s Bella Vista restaurant—which hosts a legendary Sunday brunch—and may enjoy membership to the Coral Casino Beach and Cabana Club across the street. Outdoor terrace seats at either are key for people-watching while sipping on something cool and fruity.
The Market
Considered the crème de la crème of Santa Barbara County real estate, even teardowns go for millions. Montecito’s eight square miles are flush with lavish estates, luxe compounds, and secluded manors.