Underground Weather Santa Barbara (2024)

FAQs

Is Santa Barbara humid or dry? ›

Santa Barbara County's climate is typically warm and dry in summer and cool and wet in winter, close to that of a Mediterranean-type climate. Most of the county's rivers, creeks, and streams remain dry during the summer months.

Sure, we've got the perfect year-round climate. But in the winter when it rains here, something magical and unexpected happens: a frosty blanket of snow covers the Santa Ynez Mountains. And when there is snow on the South Coast, locals quickly head to the Camino Cielo Ski Area, one of Santa Barbara's best-kept secrets.

The average amount of precipitation for the year in Santa Barbara is 16.3" (414 mm). Typically the most precipitation occurs between January and March. More general information on the local climate can be found here.

Let the fresh spring air, Earth Day celebrations and festivals galore be your guide during your next trip to Santa Barbara this April. Spring is in full swing with activities for the entire family—almost as plentiful as the poppies that blossom on nearby Figueroa Mountain.

One of the more unique phenomenon that occurs in Santa Barbara is what is known as June Gloom. In May to June every year, the warm desert wind hits the cold ocean water and creates a rolling fog that helps cool Santa Barbara's summers.

According to Best Places, the cost of living in Santa Barbara is nearly 55 percent higher than the national average — ouch! For 2023-2024, Santa Barbara ranked #5 for Most Expensive Places to Live in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report.

The wealthy California enclave of Santa Barbara was named the top emerging U.S. housing market in a new report, beating out a list of mostly affordable mid-sized cities.

Santa Barbara is best known for its broad, sandy beaches, and whether you're looking to catch the perfect wave or the perfect sunset, there are plenty from which to choose.

June-August

With pleasant temperatures averaging in the 70s and hardly any rainfall, summer is peak season in Santa Barbara. This is the time of year when most of the annual events occur in the city, bringing with them more crowds and elevated hotel prices.

When storms strike the Santa Barbara coast, they generally bring high water levels and waves.

Why is Santa Barbara weather so good? ›

Low humidity and a gentle ocean breeze complement these ideal climes. Nights cool down slightly while the inland and mountain areas of Santa Barbara County tend to run a little warmer — averaging 15-20 degrees hotter during the day and slightly colder at night.

Santa Barbara

Benefiting from a Mediterranean climate, the area enjoys 283 sunny days and averages 3,101 hours of sunlight each year.

Santa Barbara can be enjoyed as an easy day or weekend trip from Los Angeles (travel time is only 90 minutes). However, with so much to do and see, true explorers will relish the opportunity to linger for three to four days (and many lodging properties offer guests their third night free).

Sometimes called the American Riviera, it's got idyllic weather year-round, a beach town vibe and plenty of outdoor adventures. Whether you're into rock climbing, horseback riding or shopping and wineries, Santa Barbara can be the perfect vacation spot.

The nearest airport to Santa Barbara is Santa Barbara (SBA) Airport which is 8 miles away. Other nearby airports include Burbank (BUR) (78.9 miles), Los Angeles (LAX) (81.2 miles), Long Beach (LGB) (98.7 miles) and Santa Ana (SNA) (117.7 miles).

SUBSTANCE ABUSE POLICY

UCSB strives to create an environment where choosing not to drink is as socially acceptable as choosing to drink for those who are of legal age. Unlawful drinking, excessive drinking, drunkenness, and illegal drug use are not condoned at UCSB.

The air has reached a high level of pollution and is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Reduce time spent outside if you are feeling symptoms such as difficulty breathing or throat irritation.

The city of Santa Barbara, California has a moderate Mediterranean climate regime in general, with some surprising and unique features.

Our hardness ranges from 2-45 grains/gallon, depending on where you are in the City. Try setting your softener lower to start. If you feel the water needs to be softer then try turning it up slowly, one grain/gallon at a time.