| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Santa Barbara/100k people | California/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 2,108 | n/a (estimate) | 2,458 | 2,564 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 4.5 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 71 | n/a | 82.8 | 36.6 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 64 | n/a | 74.6 | 119.1 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 421 | n/a | 490.9 | 325.8 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 556 | n/a (estimate) | 648 | 486 | 359 |
| Burglary | 146 | n/a | 170.2 | 305.8 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 1,236 | n/a | 1,441.3 | 1,345.2 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 170 | n/a | 198.2 | 427.5 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 1,552 | n/a (estimate) | 1,810 | 2,078 | 1,760 |
Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Santa Barbara is 16% higher than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In Santa Barbara, there were 556 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 648 per 100,000 individuals, 80.5% higher than the national average. Additionally, there were 1552 property crimes, amounting to 1810 per 100,000 residents, 2.8% higher than the U.S. average.
Santa Barbara showcased a dedication to violent crime safety in its latest reported crime year by achieving a murder rate of 0. This accomplishment could indicate that it is a safe place for residents, but also provides a shining example to other urban areas endeavoring to create safer communities.
The property crime rate per 100,000 people in Santa Barbara is very similar to the national average. Santa Barbara had a property crime rate of 1810, while the national average was 1760. Based on these numbers, you could expect an average amount of property crime in this area.
AreaVibes conducted surveys inquiring about the safety perception of Santa Barbara residents. Out of the respondents (79 in total), 57% expressed a strong sense of security, believing that crime rates in Santa Barbara were low, and they felt comfortable walking alone at night. Conversely, 43% held a contrasting viewpoint, expressing concerns about safety in the area and feeling uncomfortable walking alone during the nighttime hours.
To determine if Santa Barbara is a safe place to live, let's take a look at the overall crime rate of the area, as well as the number of daily crimes. Santa Barbara has a total crime rate that is 16% higher than the national average per 100,000 residents. This results in a total of 5.78 daily crimes (1.52 violent daily crimes and 4.25 daily property crimes) in Santa Barbara.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Santa Barbara. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Santa Barbara has decreased by 18.2%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 42.9%, while property crime has decreased by 29.1%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Santa Barbara.
The Santa Barbara region comprises an array of over 8 distinct neighborhoods, each characterized by its unique crime rate influenced by factors including location and socioeconomic conditions. Typically, neighborhoods situated near the city center or downtown core exhibit higher crime rates owing to their higher population density. Conversely, neighborhoods on the city's outskirts tend to boast lower population density, along with reduced unemployment and poverty rates, contributing to a safer environment. Among the secure neighborhoods in Santa Barbara are exemplars such as Las Positas, Mesa and Upper State, whereas Waterfront, Eastside and Riviera grapple with an above-average reported crime rate. This underscores the necessity for thorough evaluation across multiple neighborhoods, given their notable variations in crime rates.
Santa Barbara has a poverty rate of 12.3, while the national average is 15.1. In the past, there has been a direct correlation between high or low poverty rates and high or low crime stats. Elevated poverty levels and income disparities can contribute to heightened criminal activity, as individuals may resort to unlawful means to address their fundamental necessities. While lower poverty levels have led to a reduction in typical crime levels compared to other areas.
In Santa Barbara, the ratio of police officers and civilians stands at 2.25 per 1,000 residents, contrasting with the national average of 3.25. This discrepancy highlights the potential impact of law enforcement and community policing on crime rates. The strength of their collaboration can serve as a deterrent to criminal behavior, fostering a safer environment. Effective law enforcement leans heavily on community policing strategies that prioritize the cultivation of trust and cooperation between police and residents. It's essential to recognize that the effectiveness of these efforts isn't solely tied to the quantity of officers but also hinges on the quality of their engagement with the community.
In areas where housing affordability is an issue, crime can become a significant concern. Some individuals and families may be forced to live in overcrowded or substandard housing conditions, which can increase stress and potentially contribute to domestic disputes and related crimes. The median home price in Santa Barbara is $1,920,877, compared to a national average of $326,622.
Why stop at city-to-city? With Local Insights, you can compare neighborhoods, zip codes, or even exact addresses. Access 300+ hyperlocal data points—from schools and crime to housing and amenities—to see which area is the better fit.
| Item | Santa Barbara | California | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 202 | 51,506 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.2 | 3.6 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | California /100K | National /100K |
| California | 79,891 | 232 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Toro Canyon, CA | 1,959 | 68 | 292 | 360 |
| Mission Canyon, CA | 2,752 | 76 | 326 | 402 |
| Montecito, CA | 8,465 | 171 | 729 | 900 |
| Summerland, CA | 763 | 196 | 840 | 1,036 |
| Carpinteria, CA | 13,726 | 189 | 1,371 | 1,560 |
| Goleta, CA | 33,194 | 205 | 1,569 | 1,774 |
| Santa Barbara, CA | 94,185 | 648 | 1,810 | 2,458 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Tracy, CA | 94,210 | 301 | 1,592 | 1,893 |
| Carson, CA | 94,352 | 420 | 2,931 | 3,351 |
| Deltona, FL | 93,968 | 329 | 1,748 | 2,076 |
| Westminster, CA | 93,920 | 436 | 2,498 | 2,934 |
| Alafaya, FL | 94,471 | 162 | 862 | 1,025 |
| Santa Barbara, CA | 94,185 | 648 | 1,810 | 2,458 |
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