October brought that signature Santa Barbara rhythm - steady movement, thoughtful pricing and plenty of buyers ready to plant roots along the coast. Sales and prices climbed across the board, and a notable share of buyers continued to purchase with cash, keeping the market moving smoothly even as inventory remains selective. It was a month that blended activity with intention, showing how strategic pricing and strong demand can work hand in hand.
Key Takeaways ‘25 v ’24:
- Condos: Sales up 7%, median price up 8%
- Single-family residences: Sales up 12%, median price up 6%
- Cash buyers: Made up 38% of all sales
- Average price per square foot:
- SFR: $1,324
- Condo: $1,003
- 21% of homes sold above list price in Oct 2025, reflecting targeted pricing strategies rather than broad bidding wars
As we head into the final stretch of the year, it’s a great time to take stock of your real estate goals - whether that means prepping for a 2026 sale, exploring investment opportunities, or simply staying informed about what’s happening in your neighborhood. Every neighborhood pocket across our town is moving at its own pace, and having a clear strategy can make all the difference.
CARPINTERIA
number of sales
106
median price
sfr: $1,827,500
condo: $850,000
Single-family home sales in Carpinteria are up 38% year-over-year, signalling strong demand. Meanwhile, condo sales have dipped by about 9%, but condo prices have still ticked up 2%, suggesting fewer transactions yet sustained valuation.
Additionally, local tensions are growing around a proposed 18-story housing development in Carpinteria, which many community members feel could alter the character and infrastructure of the area (see “Carpinteria Threatened by an 18-Story Housing Project”)
MONTECITO
number of sales
188
median price
sfr: $6,192,500
condo: $2,875,000
Montecito’s market is buzzing this month, with sales up across the board. Single-family transactions jumped 33%, and condo sales surged 75%, showing broad buyer activity. Median single-family prices are up 10% year over year, while condo prices have dipped 11%, creating an interesting contrast between the two segments. Overall, momentum remains strong with plenty of movement at a range of price points.
SANTA BARBARA
number of sales
507
median price
sfr: $2,302,500
condo: 1,172,000
Santa Barbara’s market is seeing steady, across-the-board growth. Single-family home sales are up 3%, while condo sales jumped 29%, reflecting strong momentum in the market. Median prices rose 5% for single-family homes and 8% for condos, underscoring continued buyer confidence and healthy demand throughout our special town.
HOPE RANCH
number of sales
29
median price
sfr: $6,300,973
Hope Ranch is experiencing a remarkably active year, with sales up 81% compared to last year. Median prices have seen a modest 3% rise, while the average price has climbed an impressive 30%, reflecting a number of high-value closings. Eight properties have sold at or above $12 million, including one standout sale at $24 million, highlighting continued strength in the upper tier of the market.
GOLETA
number of sales
313
median price
sfr: $1,725,000
condo: $954,000
Goleta’s single-family market is trending upward, with both sales and median price rising 6% year over year. Condo activity, however, has cooled a bit, with sales down 18% and median prices dipping 4%. The split suggests steady demand for detached homes, while buyers may be taking a more measured approach in the condo segment.
SANTA YNEZ
number of sales
153
median price
sfr: $1,806,500
condo: $710,000
The Santa Ynez Valley is seeing broad, steady growth this year, with single-family sales up 23% and condo sales up 21%. Median prices are rising as well, with single-family homes up 17% and condos up 9%, reflecting continued interest in the Valley’s spacious, amenity-rich lifestyle. Overall, momentum remains strong across both segments.
If you’re curious about your home’s current value, considering a transition, or just want to talk through possibilities, we’re always here to help. Let’s connect and map out your next steps with confidence and clarity.
data from SB CORT from Jan - October 2025 Carpinteria through Goleta and Santa Ynez Valley, presented by Dianne and Brianna Johnson, Village Properties Realtors DRE 00947199 & 01943572 All information is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.
