I spent two years here going to college in the early 1970’s. I really liked it here. I thought about trying to relocate here when I finished school and just did not do it. I remember quite clearly thinking at the time that this is likely the best place I will ever live in. I missed it as soon as I relocated back to Orange County CA.
All of the photos in this blog post were taken by me in 2024. I either used my Nikon Z8 or iPhone.
Overview of Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara is a picturesque coastal city located in California, often celebrated for its stunning Mediterranean climate and beautiful scenery. Known as “The American Riviera,” it features a unique blend of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and a excellent dining scene.
Geographic Location
- Coordinates: 34°25′N 119°42′W
- Distance from Major Cities:
- 90 miles (145 km) northwest of Los Angeles
- 325 miles (525 km) southeast of San Francisco
Economy
Santa Barbara has a diverse economy, with significant contributions from sectors such as:
- Tourism: Major driver of local economy
- Education: Home to institutions like the University of California, Santa Barbara
- Healthcare: A key employment sector
Attractions
- Mission Santa Barbara: Known as “The Queen of the Missions”
- Stearns Wharf: A popular waterfront destination
- Funk Zone: A vibrant area with art galleries, restaurants, and wine tasting
Santa Barbara, with its breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and pleasant climate, is an ideal destination for both residents and visitors.
Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in a variety of activities, including hiking, surfing, kayaking, and whale watching. The area boasts stunning beaches like Leadbetter Beach and Butterfly Beach, perfect for sunbathing and soaking up the ocean’s beauty.
My thought that Santa Barbara is the best place to live in the United States is not new. I thought so when I lived here going to school. Then right around the year 2000 I wrote about my travel experiences in the US and where the best places were to live. At that time Santa Barbara was my over all first choice. This town is mid sized. Big enough to have nearly whatever you need when and if you need-want it. The traffic is not absent but a lot less than that of Los Angeles, San Francisco, or San Diego. And if Santa Barbara is too big for you, or too expensive, consider Ventura. Another contender that is smaller than Santa Barbara and also very laid back and low key is Cambria. I will describe both in future posts.
BobNuttmann.com 