Just when you thought the California lifestyle couldn’t get any better, you discover Montecito. This small but affluent enclave to the west of Los Angeles is the state’s best-kept secret.
This is a place where you can have it all, from ocean and hillside views to luxury property and a strong sense of community.
Montecito, CA: Community Highlights
Montecito grew around Old Spanish Town and surrounding Spanish and Mexican land grants that had been deeded to Spanish and Mexican soldiers by the presidio between 1782 and 1846.
It would go on to become a prosperous agricultural hub, with local soil conditions and the temperate climate being well-suited for growing citrus fruit and decorative trees, plants, and flowers.
Affluent families from the East Coast discovered Montecito in the 1920s and built homes in the area, cultivating its modern reputation as a wealthy enclave.
The U.S. Census estimates the population at 8,611 as of 2020. Located in Santa Barbara County, just east of the City of Santa Barbara and west of LA, this unassuming town is home to celebrities and the ultra wealthy who want to get away from it all.
Real Estate in Montecito, CA
The housing market is known for lavish properties that command stunning views of the ocean and open spaces. Most of these are spacious single-family homes perched on the hillside. Popular architectural styles include Spanish Revival, Mediterranean, and Cape Dutch.
Spanning just 8 square miles, the community is divided into two sections, namely the Upper and Lower villages. The most sought after area in town is called the Golden Quadrangle, which covers the expanse north of East Valley Road, right between Hot Springs Drive in the west and Buena Vista in the east.
For more information on Montecito, CA real estate, don’t hesitate to contact me, Donna Sallen. I’m a Realtor with over 20 years of experience and I change people’s lives, one sale at a time.
Lifestyle
The community is served by the Montecito Union School District, which was founded in 1856 and provides quality education to K-6 students. Some of the schools in the area include:
- Montecito Union School
When it comes to culture and lifestyle, Montecito is known for luxury. Realtors describe the community as “effortlessly chic” with its gorgeous homes, antique stores, boutiques, and wineries.
It’s the place to be for those with refined taste and those who appreciate the finer things in life. Coast Village Road offers world-class shopping and dining while the wharfs and trails provide nature-based activities.
Some of the activities to enjoy in and around Montecito include:
- Hiking
- Biking
- Wine tasting
- Swimming
- Boating
Popular attractions in and around Montecito include:
- Lotusland
- Manning Park
- Butterfly Beach
- Miramar Beach
- Valley Club of Montecito
- Hot Springs Canyon Trailhead
- Casa del Herrero
- Montecito Wine Bistro
If you think Montecito should be your next home, contact us today. You can message me, Donna Sallen, here. You can also contact our team at 805.798.0516 and Donna4Remax(at)aol(dotted)com. With over 20 years of experience in real estate, I can help you find the perfect home in this wonderful community.