Montecito is located just below Santa Barbara between the Santa Ynez Mountains and Pacific Ocean. Affectionately nicknamed the American Rivera, this enchanting town is famous for its beautiful scenery, historic homes, Mediterranean climate, and famous residents. Montecito experienced a setback in 2018 during the Thomas Fire but survived and is thriving today as one of the most desirable residential real estate markets in the country. Here is a look at why.
Montecito Real Estate
Montecito has a competitive and high-priced real estate market. On average, homes for sale in Montecito go for between $2 million and $20 million, with some luxury properties going above this. Homes valued at between $4 million and $10 million dominate the market and a property with a great view of the sea will likely set you back $5 million. The Golden Quadrangle is one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Montecito and features the most expensive properties in town. Situated in the hillsides, this luxurious enclave provides expansive lots with panoramic views of the ocean.
Montecito Homes for Sale: Housing Inventory
The exclusivity of the Montecito real estate market is made all the more interesting by the diverse housing inventory. Montecito is known for its white stucco homes built in the Cape Dutch, Mediterranean, or Spanish Colonial styles. But you can also find homes in different styles, including contemporary modern, cottages, and old ranch-style. Usually set in the hills and by the beach, these homes are set on expansive lots widely spaced from each other, creating many wide open spaces.
Unique Perks of Living in Montecito
Montecito provides excellent access to some major urban spots. It is a mere five-minute drive from State Street, Santa Barbara’s main street and one and a half hours away from Los Angeles. Despite this, the town is very laid back and has an understated elegance. You will often see famous people on the street going about their day with no one stopping to ask for an autograph.
This environment lends to the small-town, old-world ambiance of Montecito. The town also has great access to the mountains and sea, making it an ideal haven for outdoor people. While living in Montecito, you can enjoy the many hiking trails in the Santa Ynez mountain range and their ocean views, creeks, forests, and cascades.
Montecito’s Residents
Montecito enjoys close proximity to Hollywood and Los Angeles. Because of this, it is a popular residential haven for people in the TV and film industry. You will not be hard pressed to find directors, producers, and screenwriters among your neighbors. Montecito is also close to Silicon Valley, which is why it draws people who work in tech. And while most of the homes are primary residences, some residents of Montecito are second-home owners.
Part of Montecito’s charm is its famous residents, who include Julia Louis-Dreyfus, her husband Brad Hall, and Gwyneth Paltrow. But the town’s most famous resident is Oprah Winfrey, who owns a 42-acre estate in Montecito dubbed the Promised Land.
Explore Montecito Homes with a Montecito Realtor
Montecito maintains an air of chic elegance while remaining an understated gem. Its warm weather, stunning scenery, community feel, and sun-soaked beaches make it the type of place you would like to not only vacation but live. If you want to enjoy the perks of Montecito living, Randy Solakian Estates Group can help you find and buy the perfect Montecito home. Composed of some of the most decorated real estate professionals in Santa Barbara, you can trust the team to steer you right. Call today for more information.