Renting · Section 8
Data from November 2026
Renting in Santa Barbara County, California
Santa Barbara County has a HUD fair market rent of $3,106 a month for 2 bedrooms (Fiscal year 2027). Renter households here pay a typical rent of $2,131 a month (Average 2020–2024). Paying the fair market rent without going over 30% of income takes $59.73 an hour, full time.
Four numbers to start with
- Fair market rent, 2 bedrooms
- $3,106
- a month, HUD, Fiscal year 2027
- 18% more than in California
- Typical rent
- $2,131
- a month, Census, Average 2020–2024
- 5% more than in California
- Wage needed
- $59.73
- an hour, 2 bedrooms
- Or $124,240 a year, to spend no more than 30% of income on rent.
- Rent-burdened households
- 58%
- spend 30% or more of income on rent
- 4% more than in California
Only here
Renting in Santa Barbara County: what sets it apart
What this place has that others do not, from public data, most unusual first.
-
Among the neighboring counties, Tulare County has the lowest typical rent ($1,280), 40% below the $2,131 in Santa Barbara County.
-
Santa Barbara County has the 4th lowest homeownership rate of the 58 counties in California (52%).
Sources: U.S. Census Bureau (Average 2020–2024).
Fair market rent
What HUD sets for each size
Every year HUD (the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) publishes a Fair Market Rent (FMR) for each home size in Santa Barbara County. It is used to work out how much a Section 8 voucher covers. The table shows what you need to earn to pay it without spending more than 30% of income.
The fair market rent covers rent plus basic utilities, except the phone. HUD generally sets it at the 40th percentile: 4 in 10 standard-quality homes rented recently cost less. 24 CFR §888.113(a)
According to Zillow (ZORI), the typical asking rent in Santa Barbara County was $3,279 a month in September 2026: 2.8% more than 12 months ago. It is an index of market listings, not a HUD limit. Zillow data
| Size | Fair rent per month | Hourly wage | Income needed per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $2,479 | $47.67 | $99,160 |
| 1 bedroom | $2,711 | $52.13 | $108,440 |
| 2 bedrooms | $3,106 | $59.73 | $124,240 |
| 3 bedrooms | $3,990 | $76.73 | $159,600 |
| 4 bedrooms | $4,557 | $87.63 | $182,280 |
HUD area: Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA MSA. Source: HUD, Fiscal year 2027
By ZIP code
The fair market rent for your ZIP code
HUD also publishes fair market rents by ZIP code (Small Area FMRs) for 29 ZIP codes in Santa Barbara County (Fiscal year 2027). Type yours to see it.
For 2 bedrooms they run from $2,820 in 93254 to $4,360 in 93109. 18 ZIP codes are above the county's fair market rent ($3,106).
Where HUD designates these areas, or where the housing agency chooses to use them, the voucher is figured on the ZIP code's rent instead of the county's. Ask your agency which one it uses. 24 CFR §982.503(a)(1)
| 93013 | Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA | $2,730 | $2,990 | $3,430 | $4,400 | $5,030 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 93013 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,730 | $2,990 | $3,430 | $4,400 | $5,030 |
| 93067 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,730 | $2,990 | $3,430 | $4,460 | $5,030 |
| 93101 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $3,070 | $3,360 | $3,850 | $4,950 | $5,650 |
| 93103 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,890 | $3,160 | $3,620 | $4,650 | $5,310 |
| 93105 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,900 | $3,170 | $3,630 | $4,660 | $5,330 |
| 93106 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,680 | $2,930 | $3,360 | $4,320 | $4,930 |
| 93108 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,900 | $3,270 | $3,690 | $4,870 | $5,430 |
| 93109 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $3,480 | $3,810 | $4,360 | $5,600 | $6,400 |
| 93110 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,830 | $3,090 | $3,540 | $4,550 | $5,190 |
| 93111 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $3,370 | $3,680 | $4,220 | $5,420 | $6,190 |
| 93117 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,680 | $2,930 | $3,360 | $4,320 | $4,930 |
| 93254 | San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA | $2,220 | $2,480 | $2,820 | $3,670 | $4,190 |
| 93254 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,220 | $2,480 | $2,820 | $3,670 | $4,190 |
| 93427 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,590 | $2,840 | $3,250 | $4,180 | $4,770 |
| 93429 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,750 | $3,020 | $3,450 | $4,430 | $5,060 |
| 93434 | San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA | $2,220 | $2,480 | $2,820 | $3,670 | $4,190 |
| 93434 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,220 | $2,480 | $2,820 | $3,670 | $4,190 |
| 93436 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,220 | $2,480 | $2,820 | $3,670 | $4,190 |
| 93437 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,970 | $3,250 | $3,720 | $4,780 | $5,460 |
| 93440 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,380 | $2,610 | $2,980 | $3,840 | $4,380 |
| 93441 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,840 | $3,110 | $3,560 | $4,570 | $5,220 |
| 93454 | San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA | $2,220 | $2,480 | $2,820 | $3,670 | $4,190 |
| 93454 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,220 | $2,480 | $2,820 | $3,670 | $4,190 |
| 93455 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,720 | $2,980 | $3,410 | $4,380 | $5,000 |
| 93458 | San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA | $2,310 | $2,520 | $2,890 | $3,710 | $4,240 |
| 93458 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,310 | $2,520 | $2,890 | $3,710 | $4,240 |
| 93460 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $3,340 | $3,650 | $4,180 | $5,370 | $6,130 |
| 93463 | Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA | $2,220 | $2,480 | $2,820 | $3,670 | $4,190 |
- 93013 · Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA $3,430$4,400
- 93013 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $3,430$4,400
- 93067 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $3,430$4,460
- 93101 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $3,850$4,950
- 93103 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $3,620$4,650
- 93105 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $3,630$4,660
- 93106 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $3,360$4,320
- 93108 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $3,690$4,870
- 93109 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $4,360$5,600
- 93110 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $3,540$4,550
- 93111 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $4,220$5,420
- 93117 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $3,360$4,320
- 93254 · San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA $2,820$3,670
- 93254 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $2,820$3,670
- 93427 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $3,250$4,180
- 93429 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $3,450$4,430
- 93434 · San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA $2,820$3,670
- 93434 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $2,820$3,670
- 93436 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $2,820$3,670
- 93437 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $3,720$4,780
- 93440 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $2,980$3,840
- 93441 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $3,560$4,570
- 93454 · San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA $2,820$3,670
- 93454 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $2,820$3,670
- 93455 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $3,410$4,380
- 93458 · San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA $2,890$3,710
- 93458 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $2,890$3,710
- 93460 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $4,180$5,370
- 93463 · Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA $2,820$3,670
Source: Small Area Fair Market Rents (HUD) Fiscal year 2027 Small Area Fair Market Rents (HUD) (external site)
Rent burden
How many households spend too much
HUD counts rent as a burden when it reaches 30% of income or more. In Santa Barbara County, 58% of renter households are in that position; in California, 55%, and nationwide, 51% (Average 2020–2024, Census).
Paying too much rent leaves little for food, transportation and savings. If that is you, the agencies below can guide you for free.
58%
of renter households spend 30% or more of their income on rent.
71,264 households rent in Santa Barbara County
- Spend half or more of their income 32%
- Spend 30% or more, but less than half 26%
- Spend less than 30% 42%
Compared with the state and the country
- Santa Barbara 58%
- California 55%
- United States 51%
Low-income apartments
Low-income apartments in Santa Barbara County
HUD lists 85 properties with homes for low-income households in Santa Barbara County: tax-credit apartments (LIHTC) and HUD-assisted buildings. They run from the most low-income homes to the fewest.
- with tax credits (LIHTC)
- 71
- HUD-assisted
- 18
4,599 homes in all; 4,361 of them low-income, according to HUD.
- The Vizcaya Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 1720 S Depot St, Santa Maria 93458 236 homes, 234 low-income · 1 bd: 24 · 2 bd: 112 · 3 bd: 80 · 4 bd: 20 · In service since 2007 · For families
- Westgate Courtyards Tax credit (LIHTC) 1240 Bethel Ln, Santa Maria 93458 204 homes, 203 low-income · 2 bd: 102 · 3 bd: 102 · In service since 2003 · For families
- Woodstone Apartments Tax credit (LIHTC) 401 W Pine Ave, Lompoc 93436 204 homes, 202 low-income · 1 bd: 120 · 2 bd: 84 · In service since 2019
- Kailani Village Tax credit (LIHTC) 220 W North Ave, Lompoc 93436 188 homes, 182 low-income · 1 bd: 46 · 2 bd: 71 · 3 bd: 54 · 4 bd: 14 · In service since 2000 · For families
- Arbor Square Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 800 N G St, Lompoc 93436 125 homes, 124 low-income · 1 bd: 21 · 2 bd: 104 · In service since 2002
- Union Plaza HUD-assisted 120 N Broadway, Santa Maria 93454 122 low-income homes · For older adults · (805) 922-5226
- Positano Apartments Tax credit (LIHTC) 11 Camino De Vida, Santa Barbara 93111 118 homes, 116 low-income · 1 bd: 30 · 2 bd: 42 · 3 bd: 46 · In service since 2017 · For older adults
- Central Plaza Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) · HUD-assisted 200 N McClelland St, Santa Maria 93454 112 homes, 111 low-income · 1 bd: 40 · 2 bd: 56 · 3 bd: 16 · In service since 2005 · For families
- Villa Santa Fe Apts I Tax credit (LIHTC) 418 Santa Fe Pl, Santa Barbara 93109 107 homes, 102 low-income · 1 bd: 106 · 2 bd: 1 · In service since 2014 · For older adults
- Rancho Gardens Apts I Tax credit (LIHTC) 1414 N Broadway, Santa Maria 93454 104 homes, 101 low-income · Studio: 104 · In service since 1999 · For older adults
- De la Vina Frail Seniors Tax credit (LIHTC) 1116 De La Vina St, Santa Barbara 93101 98 homes, 97 low-income · In service since 1999
- Villa Caridad Senior Homes HUD-assisted 4202 Calle Real, Santa Barbara 93110 95 homes, 94 low-income · For older adults · (805) 683-4375
- The Gardens on Hope Tax credit (LIHTC) 251 S Hope Ave, Santa Barbara 93105 90 homes, 89 low-income · Studio: 89 · 1 bd: 1 · In service since 2020 · For people with disabilities, families
- West Creek Villas Tax credit (LIHTC) 200 N T St, Lompoc 93436 88 homes, 86 low-income · 2 bd: 2 · 3 bd: 86 · In service since 1999 · For families
- Pilgrim Terrace Tax credit (LIHTC) 601 Pilgrim Terrace Dr, Santa Barbara 93101 84 homes, 83 low-income · 1 bd: 76 · 2 bd: 8 · In service since 2016 · For older adults
- Pilgrim Terrace HUD-assisted 649 Pilgrim Terrace Dr, Santa Barbara 93101 84 homes, 83 low-income · For older adults · (805) 682-3618
- Heritage II Tax credit (LIHTC) 300 Burton Mesa Blvd, Lompoc 93436 80 homes, 79 low-income · 1 bd: 44 · 2 bd: 36 · In service since 2016 · For older adults
- Mariposa Townhomes Tax credit (LIHTC) 218 Parkview S, Orcutt 93455 80 homes, 79 low-income · 2 bd: 20 · 3 bd: 53 · 4 bd: 7 · In service since 2000 · For families
- Villa La Esperanza HUD-assisted 131 S Kellogg Ave, Goleta 93117 83 homes, 75 low-income · For families · (806) 964-0353
- Lompoc Gardens Tax credit (LIHTC) · HUD-assisted 300 W College Ave, Lompoc 93436 75 homes, 74 low-income · 1 bd: 6 · 2 bd: 46 · 3 bd: 21 · 4 bd: 2 · In service since 2016 · For families · (805) 736-3423
- ST Vincent's Garden Tax credit (LIHTC) 4200 Calle Real, Santa Barbara 93110 75 homes, 74 low-income · 1 bd: 1 · 2 bd: 29 · 3 bd: 35 · 4 bd: 10 · In service since 2007 · For families
- El Patio Community Housing Tax credit (LIHTC) 4007 Via Lucero, Santa Barbara 93110 73 low-income homes · In service since 1995 · For families
- Village at Los Carneros Tax credit (LIHTC) 10 Longshore Pl, Goleta 93117 70 homes, 69 low-income · 1 bd: 14 · 2 bd: 31 · 3 bd: 25 · In service since 2018 · For families
- Sandpiper Apartments Tax credit (LIHTC) 370 Mathilda Dr, Goleta 93117 68 homes, 67 low-income · Studio: 44 · 1 bd: 24 · In service since 2015
- Miller Plaza / Stanley Horn Homes Tax credit (LIHTC) 301 W Maple Ave, Lompoc 93436 68 homes, 66 low-income · 1 bd: 64 · 2 bd: 4 · In service since 2016 · For older adults
- El Carrillo Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 315 W Carrillo St, Santa Barbara 93101 62 homes, 61 low-income · Studio: 61 · 2 bd: 1 · In service since 2006
- Cypress Court Tax credit (LIHTC) 125 S Seventh St, Lompoc 93436 60 homes, 59 low-income · 1 bd: 54 · 2 bd: 6 · In service since 2013 · For older adults
- Artisan Court Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 422 E Cota St, Santa Barbara 93101 56 homes, 55 low-income · Studio: 55 · 2 bd: 1 · In service since 2011
- Villa Santa Fe Apts II Tax credit (LIHTC) 521 N La Cumbre Rd, Santa Barbara 93110 60 homes, 53 low-income · 1 bd: 60 · In service since 2014 · For older adults
- Aparicio Community Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 332 Ellwood Beach Dr, Goleta 93117 54 homes, 53 low-income · Studio: 5 · 1 bd: 39 · 2 bd: 9 · 3 bd: 1 · In service since 2011
- Bradley Studios Tax credit (LIHTC) 512 Bath St, Santa Barbara 93101 54 homes, 53 low-income · Studio: 53 · 2 bd: 1 · In service since 2012
- Los Adobes de Maria II Tax credit (LIHTC) 1148 W Boone St, Santa Maria 93458 52 homes, 51 low-income · 2 bd: 12 · 3 bd: 35 · 4 bd: 5 · In service since 2003 · For families
- Mha Garden Street Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 617 Garden St, Santa Barbara 93101 51 homes, 50 low-income · Studio: 5 · 1 bd: 44 · 2 bd: 2 · In service since 2008
- Presidio Park Apts HUD-assisted 420 and 424 E. De La Guerra, Santa Barbara 93101 50 low-income homes · For families · (805) 966-2963
- Casa Serena Senior Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 130 S Fifth St, Lompoc 93436 48 homes, 47 low-income · 1 bd: 38 · 2 bd: 10 · In service since 1995 · For older adults
- Rancho Hermosa Tax credit (LIHTC) 215 Inger Dr, Santa Maria 93454 47 homes, 45 low-income · 3 bd: 47 · In service since 2011
- Solvang Senior Apartments Tax credit (LIHTC) 1758 Laurel Ave, Solvang 93463 45 homes, 44 low-income · 1 bd: 41 · 2 bd: 4 · In service since 2016 · For older adults
- Casas de las Flores Tax credit (LIHTC) 4090 Via Real, Carpinteria 93013 43 homes, 42 low-income · 1 bd: 7 · 2 bd: 14 · 3 bd: 22 · In service since 2015 · For families
- El Patio Community Housing Phase II Tax credit (LIHTC) 4006 Via Lucero, Santa Barbara 93110 40 low-income homes · In service since 1996 · For families
- Oak Knolls Apartments HUD-assisted 4845 S Bradley Rd, Santa Maria 93455 40 low-income homes · For older adults · (805) 934-2027
- Jardin de las Rosas Tax credit (LIHTC) 510 N Salsipuedes St, Santa Barbara 93103 40 homes, 39 low-income · 1 bd: 5 · 2 bd: 22 · 3 bd: 13 · In service since 2018 · For families
- Lompoc Terrace Tax credit (LIHTC) 805 W Apricot Ave, Lompoc 93436 40 homes, 39 low-income · 1 bd: 2 · 2 bd: 8 · 3 bd: 28 · 4 bd: 2 · In service since 2014 · For families
- Palm Grove Apartments Tax credit (LIHTC) 2 Palm Dr, Lompoc 93436 40 homes, 39 low-income · 2 bd: 14 · 3 bd: 16 · 4 bd: 10 · In service since 2014 · For families
- Lompoc Terrace HUD-assisted 805 W Apricot Ave, Lompoc 93436 39 low-income homes · For families · (805) 736-3423
- Sierra Madre Cottages Tax credit (LIHTC) 605 Sierra Madre Ave, Santa Maria 93454 39 low-income homes · 1 bd: 36 · 2 bd: 3 · In service since 2020 · For older adults
- Creekside Village (los Alamos) Tax credit (LIHTC) 260 Gonzales Dr, Los Alamos 93440 39 homes, 38 low-income · 2 bd: 18 · 3 bd: 18 · 4 bd: 3 · In service since 2012 · For families
- Homebase on G Tax credit (LIHTC) 513 N G St, Lompoc 93436 39 homes, 37 low-income · Studio: 39 · In service since 2009
- Guadalupe Court Apartments Project Tax credit (LIHTC) 4202 11th St, Guadalupe 93434 38 homes, 37 low-income · 1 bd: 4 · 2 bd: 22 · 3 bd: 12 · In service since 2020 · For families
- Storke Ranch Family Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 6806 Phelps Rd, Goleta 93117 36 low-income homes · 2 bd: 24 · 3 bd: 12 · In service since 1999 · For families
- Santa Rita Village Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 926 W Apricot Ave, Lompoc 93436 36 homes, 35 low-income · 1 bd: 8 · 2 bd: 14 · 3 bd: 10 · 4 bd: 4 · In service since 2012 · For families
- G+ College Family Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 608 N G St, Lompoc 93436 35 homes, 34 low-income · 2 bd: 11 · 3 bd: 14 · 4 bd: 10 · In service since 2008 · For families
- Valentine Court I HUD-assisted 280 E Newlove Dr, Santa Maria 93454 35 homes, 34 low-income · For older adults · (805) 925-6373
- Los Adobes de Maria III Tax credit (LIHTC) 525 S Russell Ave, Santa Maria 93458 34 homes, 33 low-income · 2 bd: 23 · 3 bd: 11 · In service since 2018 · For families
- Pescadero Lofts Tax credit (LIHTC) 761 Camino Pescadero, Isla Vista 93117 33 homes, 32 low-income · Studio: 26 · 1 bd: 6 · 2 bd: 1 · In service since 2014 · For people with disabilities, people experiencing homelessness
- Dahlia Court II Tax credit (LIHTC) 1305 Dahlia Ct, Carpinteria 93013 32 low-income homes · 2 bd: 19 · 3 bd: 14 · In service since 2013 · For families
- Rainbow Plaza HUD-assisted 220 W Pine Ave, Lompoc 93436 31 low-income homes · For people with disabilities · (805) 735-1952
- Hotel de Riviera Tax credit (LIHTC) 125 W Carrillo St, Santa Barbara 93101 30 low-income homes · In service since 1989
- Ted Zenich Gardens Tax credit (LIHTC) 1034 E Chapel St, Santa Maria 93454 24 homes, 23 low-income · 2 bd: 5 · 3 bd: 13 · 4 bd: 6 · In service since 2008 · For families
- Los Pinos Tax credit (LIHTC) 605 E Newlove Dr, Santa Maria 93454 23 low-income homes · 2 bd: 16 · 3 bd: 7 · In service since 1998 · For families
- Parkview Apts (isla Vista) Tax credit (LIHTC) 6682 Picasso Rd, Isla Vista 93117 20 homes, 19 low-income · 1 bd: 8 · 2 bd: 12 · In service since 2008
- Sycamore Gardens Tax credit (LIHTC) 211 Sycamore Ln, Santa Barbara 93103 20 homes, 19 low-income · 3 bd: 20 · In service since 2017 · For families
- Santa Rita Village II Tax credit (LIHTC) 912 W Apricot Ave, Lompoc 93436 19 homes, 18 low-income · 1 bd: 4 · 2 bd: 8 · 3 bd: 7 · In service since 2015 · For families
- Valentine Court II HUD-assisted 1760 S McClelland St, Santa Maria 93454 18 low-income homes · For older adults
- Cottage Gardens Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 227 W De La Guerra St, Santa Barbara 93101 17 low-income homes · In service since 1993 · For older adults
- Johnson Court Tax credit (LIHTC) 813 E Carrillo St, Santa Barbara 93103 17 homes, 16 low-income · Studio: 16 · 2 bd: 1 · In service since 2020 · For people with disabilities, people experiencing homelessness
- Leland Park (aka Evans Park) Tax credit (LIHTC) · HUD-assisted 250 N Pacific St, Orcutt 93455 29 homes, 15 low-income · 1 bd: 2 · 2 bd: 14 · In service since 2015 · For older adults · (805) 736-3423
- Mom's Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 425 E Cota St, Santa Barbara 93101 15 low-income homes · 1 bd: 4 · 2 bd: 10 · 3 bd: 2 · In service since 2011
- L.C. Grossman (aka Aparicio V) Tax credit (LIHTC) · HUD-assisted 5575 Armitos Ave, Goleta 93117 14 low-income homes · 2 bd: 14 · In service since 2015 · For families · (805) 736-3423
- Los Alamos Senior Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 660 Bell St, Los Alamos 93440 14 low-income homes · In service since 1989 · For older adults
- Rancheria Village Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 424 Rancheria St, Santa Barbara 93101 14 low-income homes · In service since 1996 · For families
- Pearl Gardens Tax credit (LIHTC) 13 S Soledad St, Santa Barbara 93103 15 homes, 13 low-income · 3 bd: 12 · 4 bd: 3 · In service since 2017 · For families
- Rancho Gardens Apts II Tax credit (LIHTC) 1414 N Broadway, Santa Maria 93454 16 homes, 12 low-income · Studio: 16 · In service since 2002 · For older adults
- Goleta Accessible Apartments HUD-assisted 6069 Shirrell Way, Goleta 93117 13 homes, 12 low-income · For people with disabilities
- Atrium Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 4667 Carpinteria Ave, Carpinteria 93013 12 low-income homes · In service since 1988 · For older adults
- Casas Las Granadas Tax credit (LIHTC) 21 E Anapamu St, Santa Barbara 93101 12 low-income homes · 1 bd: 12 · In service since 2007
- Central Gardens I Tax credit (LIHTC) 590 Central Ave, Buellton 93427 12 low-income homes · 1 bd: 2 · 2 bd: 4 · 3 bd: 6 · In service since 1999 · For families
- Valentine Court III HUD-assisted 250 E Newlove Dr, Santa Maria 93454 9 low-income homes · For older adults · (805) 781-3088
- East Canon Perdido Tax credit (LIHTC) 518 E Canon Perdido St, Santa Barbara 93103 7 low-income homes · 2 bd: 8 · In service since 1999
- New Visions HUD-assisted 1106 N School St, Santa Maria 93454 8 homes, 6 low-income · For older adults · (805) 925-0285
- Beach Court Accessible HUD-assisted 648 Maple St, Carpinteria 93013 6 low-income homes · For people with disabilities · (818) 782-2211
- 1313 Castillo ST Tax credit (LIHTC) 1313 Castillo St, Santa Barbara 93101 3 low-income homes · In service since 1988 · For older adults
- Lompoc Terrace (site A) Tax credit (LIHTC) 805 W Apricot Ave, Lompoc 93436 40 homes
- Palm Grove Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 20 Palm Dr, Lompoc 93436 39 homes
- Lompoc Terrace Apts Tax credit (LIHTC) 1001 W Apricot Ave, Lompoc 93436 27 homes
- Pescadero Lofts Tax credit (LIHTC) 761 Camino Pescadero, Goleta 93117 27 homes
4 properties have two programs at the same address and appear once. Search HUD's map
Source: HUD, retrieved November 6, 2026. LIHTC database, updated May 14, 2025; Assisted multifamily properties, updated October 23, 2026; Public housing developments, updated October 23, 2026.
Section 8
The Section 8 voucher in Santa Barbara County
The Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) pays part of your rent on a home you choose. Your public housing agency runs it. 2 agencies serve in Santa Barbara County. Here is what the rules say:
The rules, with their source
-
You apply at the public housing agency. If you qualify, your name usually goes on a waiting list. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or noncitizens with eligible status as HUD defines it. Source: HUD
-
Generally, your family must have very low income: no more than 50% of the area median income, by family size (the middle column of the table). Source: 24 CFR §5.603, §982.201(b)
-
Each year, at least 75% of the families an agency admits from its list must have extremely low income (the 30% column). Source: 24 CFR §982.201(b)(2)
-
If the rent is below the payment standard, the family generally pays 30% of its adjusted monthly income. If it is above, the family pays more. Source: 24 CFR §982.1(a)(3)
-
When you move in, if the rent is above the payment standard, your share cannot go over 40% of your adjusted monthly income. Source: 24 CFR §982.508
-
Each agency sets a payment standard for each size. Without asking HUD, it can go from 90% to 110% of the fair market rent. Source: 24 CFR §982.503(b), (c)
| People | Extremely low (30%) | Very low (50%) | Low |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $38,300 | $63,750 | $102,000 |
| 2 people | $43,750 | $72,850 | $116,600 |
| 3 people | $49,200 | $81,950 | $131,150 |
| 4 people | $54,650 | $91,050 | $145,700 |
| 5 people | $59,050 | $98,350 | $157,400 |
| 6 people | $63,400 | $105,650 | $169,050 |
| 7 people | $67,800 | $112,950 | $180,700 |
| 8 people | $72,150 | $120,200 | $192,350 |
Area median income: $118,600. HUD income limits by family size, Fiscal year 2026. Area: Santa Maria-Santa Barbara, CA MSA. Source: HUD, Fiscal year 2026
Possible payment standard
- Studio $2,231 – $2,727
- 1 bedroom $2,440 – $2,982
- 2 bedrooms $2,795 – $3,417
- 3 bedrooms $3,591 – $4,389
- 4 bedrooms $4,101 – $5,013
The range the rule allows: 90% to 110% of the county's fair market rent. Your agency publishes its own.
Housing agencies that serve this place
- Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara Public housing and Section 8 vouchers · 4,366 vouchers (805) 736-3423 Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara: bobhavlicek@hasbarco.org
- Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara Section 8 vouchers · 2,956 vouchers (805) 965-1071 Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara: rfredericks@hacsb.org
Housing agencies in California Source: HUD, Retrieved November 6, 2026
Your rights as a tenant in California
What California law says about deposits, notices and eviction, with the citation for each rule.
See your rights, rule by ruleCompare these rules with other states →
A summary of state law, not legal advice. Cities may have additional rules.
- How much can they charge for a deposit?
- Up to 1 month of rent
- Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5(c)(1), (c)(4)
- When must they return my deposit?
- 21 days
- Cal. Civ. Code §1950.5
- If I fall behind on rent, what notice must I get?
- 3 court days
- Cal. Code Civ. Proc. §1161(2)
- How much notice ends a month-to-month rental?
- 30 or 60 days, depending on the case
- Cal. Civ. Code §1946.1(b), (c)
- Only a court order can remove youCal. Civ. Code §789.3
- Protection from retaliationCal. Civ. Code §1942.5
- Protection related to immigration statusCal. Civ. Code §1940.3
Help
Where to get help with rent in Santa Barbara County
This is the nearest HUD-approved agency. They counsel for free or at low cost.
-
My Way Home
2231 Sturgis Rd Unit A, Oxnard · 56 miles away · Spanish
- Mortgage delinquency and default
- Mortgage delinquency workshops
- and 9 more
Rental assistance programs
The ones that serve in Santa Barbara County or the whole state, with what each page says about being open.
-
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): energy bill help
Run by California Department of Community Services and Development (CSD)
One-time payment from the federal LIHEAP program in California to help with your heating or cooling bill, or if your service is about to be shut off
Limited funds remain, per the source
See details
Tool
How much cash do you need to move in?
It starts with the 2-bedroom fair market rent in Santa Barbara County. Change the rent, the deposit and the fees to yours: the numbers stay in your browser.
Count power on top of the rent: in California, the average home bill was $161 a month in 2024 (EIA). See electricity and gas costs
Your move
We use the place's fair market rent and the state's deposit rule.
Adjust advanced details
Let's do the math
Cash to move in
$6,212
What you need before you get the keys.
What adds up
- First month
- $3,106
- Security deposit
- $3,106
- Total
- $6,212
When you'll have it
Enter what you can set aside each month to see how long it takes.
What helps
- Ask for a receipt for every payment and keep a copy of the lease.
- On move-in day, walk through the home and take dated photos.
- Never send money for a home you haven't seen or a lease you haven't read.
This is a planning estimate, not a price. What you are asked for depends on the landlord, your lease and your state's and city's rules. It is not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is the fair market rent in Santa Barbara County?
According to HUD (Fiscal year 2027): Studio: $2,479; 1 bedroom: $2,711; 2 bedrooms: $3,106; 3 bedrooms: $3,990; 4 bedrooms: $4,557. It covers rent plus basic utilities, except the phone.
How much do you need to earn to rent in Santa Barbara County?
Paying the 2-bedroom fair market rent ($3,106) without spending more than 30% of income takes $59.73 an hour full time, or $124,240 a year.
Who qualifies for Section 8 in Santa Barbara County?
Generally, families with very low income: no more than 50% of the area median income. For 4 people, HUD's limit here is $91,050 a year (Fiscal year 2026). The family usually pays 30% of its adjusted monthly income. You apply at the housing agency.
How much does Section 8 pay in Santa Barbara County?
The voucher pays up to your housing agency's payment standard, minus your share. The rule lets the agency set it between 90% and 110% of the fair market rent: for 2 bedrooms here, between $2,795 and $3,417 a month. Your agency publishes its figure.
Does the fair market rent change by ZIP code in Santa Barbara County?
For 2 bedrooms they run from $2,820 in 93254 to $4,360 in 93109. Where HUD designates these areas, or where the housing agency chooses to use them, the voucher is figured on the ZIP code's rent instead of the county's. Ask your agency which one it uses.
How many low-income apartments are there in Santa Barbara County?
HUD lists 85 properties with homes for low-income households in Santa Barbara County: tax-credit apartments (LIHTC) and HUD-assisted buildings. They run from the most low-income homes to the fewest. For tax-credit apartments and HUD-assisted buildings, you apply directly at the building's management office. They tell you whether units are open and how to apply; HUD does not have that information.
How many households spend too much on rent in Santa Barbara County?
HUD counts rent as a burden when it reaches 30% of income or more. In Santa Barbara County, 58% of renter households are in that position; in California, 55%, and nationwide, 51% (Average 2020–2024, Census).