Goleta

The area is characterized by its beautiful beaches.

Welcome to Goleta

Goleta, often referred to as “The Good Land,” is a vibrant and diverse community located just west of Santa Barbara. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Goleta offers a more laid-back and accessible lifestyle compared to its more affluent neighbors. The area is characterized by its beautiful beaches, numerous parks, and open spaces, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Goleta is also home to the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), adding a youthful and dynamic energy to the town. The community is diverse, with a mix of students, families, and professionals, and offers a range of housing options from apartment complexes to single-family homes. With its blend of suburban comfort, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy, Goleta provides a balanced and enjoyable living experience.
 

Housing Market:

  • Goleta’s housing market is more diverse and generally more affordable than Santa Barbara’s more upscale neighborhoods.
  • The market includes a variety of options, from apartments and townhomes to single-family residences.
  • Property values have been steadily increasing, reflecting the area’s growing popularity and the overall trends in the Santa Barbara region.
 

Lifestyle:

  • Goleta offers a relaxed and family-oriented lifestyle, with a strong sense of community and ample outdoor recreational opportunities.
  • The area boasts beautiful beaches like Goleta Beach, parks, and nature preserves, ideal for hiking, biking, and water sports.
  • Goleta is also known for its local festivals, farmers’ markets, and community events, fostering a lively and engaged community spirit.
 

Schools:

  • Goleta is served by the Goleta Union School District and the Santa Barbara Unified School District, known for its strong academic programs.
  • The proximity to UCSB also provides access to various educational, cultural, and athletic resources.
  • The area has several highly rated public and private schools, offering quality education from elementary through high school.
 

Architecture:

  • Architectural styles in Goleta range from traditional Californian bungalows to modern developments.
  • The area features a mix of older, established neighborhoods and newer, planned communities.
 

Dining:

  • Goleta offers a diverse culinary scene with an array of dining options, including casual eateries, international cuisine, and seafood restaurants.
  • The proximity to UCSB contributes to a lively and diverse food culture, catering to a range of tastes and budgets.
 

Drive Times:

  • The proximity to UCSB contributes to a lively and diverse food culture, catering to a range of tastes and budgets.
  • The Santa Barbara Airport is located in Goleta, providing easy travel options for residents and visitors.

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Overview for Goleta, CA

32,677 people live in Goleta, where the median age is 35 and the average individual income is $44,410. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

32,677

Total Population

35 years

Median Age

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$44,410

Average individual Income

Around Goleta, CA

There's plenty to do around Goleta, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

26
Car-Dependent
Walking Score
66
Bikeable
Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including 30 Acres, Bake Your Day SB, and Santa Barbara Krav Maga Family Self Defense Center.

Name Category Distance Reviews
Ratings by Yelp
Dining 1.59 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Dining 2.01 miles 8 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1.81 miles 28 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1.45 miles 5 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1.75 miles 7 reviews 5/5 stars
Active 1.35 miles 6 reviews 5/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Goleta, CA

Goleta has 11,593 households, with an average household size of 2.8. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Goleta do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 32,677 people call Goleta home. The population density is 4,161.02 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

32,677

Total Population

High

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

35

Median Age

51.38 / 48.62%

Men vs Women

Population by Age Group

0-9:

0-9 Years

10-17:

10-17 Years

18-24:

18-24 Years

25-64:

25-64 Years

65-74:

65-74 Years

75+:

75+ Years

Education Level

  • Less Than 9th Grade
  • High School Degree
  • Associate Degree
  • Bachelor Degree
  • Graduate Degree
11,593

Total Households

2.8

Average Household Size

$44,410

Average individual Income

Households with Children

With Children:

Without Children:

Marital Status

Married
Single
Divorced
Separated

Blue vs White Collar Workers

Blue Collar:

White Collar:

Commute Time

0 to 14 Minutes
15 to 29 Minutes
30 to 59 Minutes
60+ Minutes

Schools in Goleta, CA

All ()
Primary Schools ()
Middle Schools ()
High Schools ()
Mixed Schools ()
The following schools are within or nearby Goleta. The rating and statistics can serve as a starting point to make baseline comparisons on the right schools for your family. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Type
Name
Category
Grades
School rating
Montessori Center School
PRIVATE
PreK - 6th
No rating available
La Patera Elementary
PUBLIC
K - 6th
3/5
Brandon Elementary
PUBLIC
K - 6th
4/5
Ellwood Elementary
PUBLIC
K - 6th
4/5
Coastline Christian Academy
PRIVATE
K - 8th
No rating available
Dos Pueblos Senior High
PUBLIC
9th - 12th
4/5
Goleta Valley Junior High
PUBLIC
7th - 8th
4/5
Santa Barbara Charter
PUBLIC
K - 8th
4/5
Kellogg Elementary
PUBLIC
K - 6th
4/5

Property Listings

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