6 active rentals · updated daily

Montecito Real Estate for Sale

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Montecito, California · Rentals

Discover the dynamic rental market of Montecito with updated local listings, pricing insights, and neighborhood guidance across Santa Barbara County.

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Renting in Montecito

Rentals · Santa Barbara County

Montecito, CA

Median Rental Price

$66,500

Montecito, CA, CA

Montecito, CA

Median Price

Montecito, CA, CA

Active Rentals

Median Price

$66,500

Avg DOM

97 days

Market data sourced from CRMLS

About Montecito, CA

Montecito is California's most exclusive unincorporated enclave — a three-square-mile community tucked between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Santa Barbara Channel where celebrity privacy, old-money estate culture, and some of the state's most architecturally significant properties create a real estate market unlike any other in California. Montecito real estate for sale attracts buyers who require genuine seclusion, exceptional scale, and proximity to Santa Barbara's international airport without sacrificing access to culture, cuisine, or the Pacific Ocean.

The market is defined by its estate lots. Montecito's Hot Springs, Pepper Lane, and Picacho corridors host gated compounds on two to fifteen acres — properties that rarely appear publicly and trade through agent relationships rather than open listings. Entry-level Montecito real estate for sale starts above $3 million for smaller village-adjacent cottages, while fully private estate compounds with guest houses, tennis courts, and ocean views trade from $15 to $50 million and above. Notable past residents include Oprah Winfrey, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and Ellen DeGeneres, whose property activity has consistently shaped market narratives.

Life in Montecito centers on the Upper and Lower Villages — two commercial nodes offering world-class restaurants, boutique retail, and the San Ysidro Ranch, one of California's most celebrated luxury resort properties. The Montecito Country Club provides golf and social amenity. Cold Spring and San Ysidro Trails offer foothills hiking within walking distance of residential streets. The Santa Barbara coastline, East Beach, and Butterfly Beach are minutes by bicycle.

Santa Barbara Unified School District and the Montecito Union School District serve the community, with Montecito Union Elementary consistently ranked among California's highest-performing public schools. For buyers evaluating Montecito real estate for sale, the investment case is straightforward: absolute supply constraint, global demand, and a lifestyle product that is irreplicable at any price point outside the community. Crown Coastal Homes provides discreet, concierge-level representation for Montecito buyers, with access to pre-market inventory and deep Santa Barbara County expertise.

6 results

Type: Residential

6 rentals in Montecito, CA

Updated daily

For Rent

65 Days on Market

Residential Lease

Montecito

$120,000.00

per month

Built 2004

This unparalleled masterpiece embodies a harmonious fusion of Spanish and Mediterranean architectural elements, showcasing impeccable details and finishes throughout. Ideally positioned, this exceptional estate is conveniently located just minutes away from Montecito's Upper and Lower Villages, yet it retains its seclusion. The property boasts well-established landscaping and commanding views of the majestic mountains. Comprising five bedrooms and seven and a half bathrooms, this luxurious residence showcases a spacious motor court, a captivating entrance with a sweeping staircase, and an extraordinary gourmet kitchen equipped with top-tier appliances and natural stone surfaces. The refined formal living and dining spaces exhibit graceful coffered ceilings, arched doorways, and hardwood floors. The master bedroom suite is adorned with a breathtaking ribbed vaulted ceiling and a cozy sitting area featuring a fireplace. It also encompasses dual bathrooms and two walk-in closets, ensuring utmost convenience. The property further includes a professional tennis court, a detached guest house, a pristine pool, and a rejuvenating spa. A two-level pavilion with a loggia, kitchen, and two fireplaces completes the ensemble. All these elements converge to create an unparalleled setting, perfectly suited for the most discerning resident.

5 beds

8 baths

9,430 sqft

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For Rent

Residential Lease

1807 Fernald Point Lane

Montecito

$65,000.00

per month

One of the most premiere oceanfront properties in Montecito, located just down the road from the Rosewood Miramar Beach Resort, this luxurious estate is tucked behind the gates of Fernald Cove and offers the finest in materials and design, coupled with extreme privacy and floor-to-ceiling ocean views. Within the Montecito Union School District, the residence features 6 bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms, a large gourmet chef's kitchen with island, wine cellar, double pantries, laundry room, office, a living room on each level, 5 fireplaces, formal dining room, romantic master suite, and multiple oceanfront decks and entertaining areas. While the main primary suite is located upstairs, an additional spacious suite is conveniently situated on the ground floor. This exquisite property is far beyond the typical beach home. Offered furnished or unfurnished, and available short or long-term: 1+ year lease: $65,000 per month | 1-6 month lease: $80,000 per month | 30-day lease: $90,000

6 beds

8 baths

6,369 sqft

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For Rent

Residential Lease

848 Picacho Lane

Santa Barbara

$100,000.00

per month

Built 1930

AAvailable for short-term furnished lease to a discerning resident keen on enjoying the Montecito lifestyle in the prestigious Golden Quadrangle. Tucked behind gates on one of Montecito's most coveted streets, this historic estate, originally built in 1930 at the height of the Roaring Twenties, has been masterfully reimagined by renowned architects Sorrell & Sorrell, blending Old World charm with contemporary luxury. Set on approximately 2.2 acres, the property offers unmatched privacy, curated gardens, and panoramic views that stretch from the Santa Ynez Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. This exceptional villa is a short stroll to the Upper Village and the iconic San Ysidro Ranch, with Butterfly Beach, Coast Village, and the Rosewood Miramar just minutes away. Yet it feels worlds apartlike a secluded hillside retreat in the South of France. Beyond the gated entry, a grand motor court welcomes you to a residence that celebrates artisanal craftsmanship and refined elegance. Inside, nearly every room opens to breathtaking vistas or intimate garden moments. The thoughtfully designed floor plan includes five ensuite bedrooms plus dedicated staff quarters, seven luxurious baths, a formal living room, and an elegant dining room ideal for entertaining. A chef's kitchen, outfitted with top-tier appliances and custom cabinetry, flows into multiple gathering spaces including a media room, wine cellar, billiards room, and gym. The primary suite is a true sanctuary, complete with dual spa-like baths, dual dressing rooms, and sweeping views. Outdoors, the estate unfolds into a series of lush garden rooms. Meandering stone pathways connect terraced lawns, rose gardens, fruit orchards, a romantic gazebo, and a charming pond. A sparkling pool and spa are flanked by ocean-facing patios and sun-drenched lounging areas, while hidden corners like the chicken coop and vegetable gardens add soul and self-sufficiency to this one-of-a-kind retreat. Additional features include a six-zone Sonos system, three-car garage, upper and lower gated access, and parking for up to nine additional vehicles. Every element of this estate from its architectural provenance to its serene grounds has been curated to offer a sense of peace, privacy, and place. This is not just a home; it is a legacy property meant to be experienced.

6 beds

8 baths

7,589 sqft

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Residential Lease

1 Miramar Avenue

Santa Barbara

$68,000.00

per month

Built 1885

Enchanting plantation-style estate in serene garden setting steps from world-renowned Miramar beach & surf break. Perfect for entertaining with gracious main level. Upstairs features adorable family loft with stunning ocean views & private terrace - magical retreat for children & guests. Exclusive Rosewood hotel privileges include world-class gym, spa, pristine pools & convenient restaurant/bar accounts. Located in prestigious Montecito Union School District. Short stroll to Coast Village Road's finest restaurants & boutiques. Step outside your door to legendary surf break that draws visitors globally. Rare opportunity combining tranquil garden estate with unparalleled beach access & luxury resort amenities.

4 beds

5 baths

4,696 sqft

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For Rent

724 Days on Market

Residential Lease

E Mountain Drive

Santa Barbara

$48,500.00

per month

Built 1983

An air of calm abiding infuses this home, a superb example of modernism designed by Paul Gray. It rests on a knoll above Montecito's "Golden Quadrangle," a coveted area of outstanding estates near world-renowned San Ysidro Ranch. The residence hosts exquisite views from nearly every room. Panoramas of mountains, ocean and islands complement the approximate 2.15+/- acre property. Rooms open to terraces via pocket and sliding glass doors. Plantation shutters and hardwood floors enhance the ambiance of casual sophistication. This exceptional home is offered fully furnished on a long-term lease. It is perfect for entertaining, with its expansive motor court, spectacular pool, bocce ball court, beautiful grounds and multiple terraces and nearby hiking trails. Conveniently located to beaches, Upper Village and in the highly regarded Montecito Union School District. 6 month minimum or a year lease.

5 beds

6 baths

6,278 sqft

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For Rent

Residential Lease

2760 Sycamore Canyon Road

Santa Barbara

$40,000.00

per month

Built 1962

5 beds

5 baths

3,837 sqft

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Get rental alerts for Montecito, CA

Why Rent in Montecito, CA

Flexible lease terms with access to coastal lifestyle
Close to employers, restaurants, and local amenities
Varied neighborhoods for different budgets
Convenient access to transit and major routes

Types of Rentals

Studio and 1BR apartments near downtown
Family-friendly homes with yards
Luxury rentals and coastal properties
Short-term and furnished options

Montecito Rent Estimator

Select your ideal property details to see estimated monthly rent.

Property Type

Bedrooms

Bathrooms

Estimated Monthly Rent

$3,000

Based on current Montecito market averages for 2-bed, 2-bath apartments.

Step-by-Step Renting Guide

Before searching for rentals in Montecito, calculate your monthly budget. A common guideline is to spend no more than 30% of your gross income on rent. Factor in utilities, parking, renter's insurance, and commute costs. Having a clear budget helps you focus on neighborhoods and property types that are realistic for your situation.

Explore Montecito, CA on the Map

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Frequently Asked Questions

Rental prices in Montecito vary depending on neighborhood, property type, size, and proximity to the coast. Studio apartments typically start at a lower range, while three-bedroom houses near the beach command premium rates. Our rental listings are updated daily from the MLS, so you can see real-time pricing across all neighborhoods. To get a personalized rental budget recommendation, contact a Crown Coastal Homes agent who can walk you through current availability and pricing trends specific to Montecito.

The best neighborhood for you depends on your priorities — walkability, proximity to work, school quality, nightlife, or quiet suburban streets. Some areas offer lower rents with easy freeway access, while others command higher prices for their walkable dining scenes and beach proximity. This page highlights top neighborhoods with rental counts and median pricing so you can compare at a glance. Our agents know every pocket of Montecito and can match your lifestyle preferences with neighborhoods that fit your budget.

Yes, many landlords in Montecito accept pets, though policies vary. Most pet-friendly rentals require a refundable pet deposit (typically $250–$500) or monthly pet rent ($25–$75 per pet). Some properties restrict breed, size, or number of animals. Use our filters to narrow listings to pet-friendly options, or contact our team to identify landlords who are flexible with pet policies. We keep a running list of pet-friendly properties and can set up alerts when new pet-friendly rentals hit the market in Montecito.

Short-term rentals (under 12 months) in Montecito are less common on the traditional MLS but do exist, especially in furnished or corporate housing categories. California local regulations may apply, depending on the area and zoning. Some landlords offer flexible lease terms during slower rental seasons (fall and winter). Contact our team to identify current short-term availability, local regulations that may affect your search, and listings that fit your specific timeline and budget requirements.

Most rental leases in Montecito run 12 months, though some landlords offer 6-month, 18-month, or month-to-month options. Longer leases often come with more favorable monthly rates, while month-to-month agreements provide flexibility at a premium. California law governs lease terms, security deposit limits, and tenant protections under the Tenant Protection Act (AB 1482). Before signing, review the lease carefully for early termination clauses, renewal terms, and any restrictions. A Crown Coastal Homes agent can help you understand your options and negotiate favorable terms.

Utility inclusion varies by property and landlord in Montecito. Apartments and condos more frequently include water and trash in the rent, while tenants typically pay for electricity, gas, and internet separately. Single-family home rentals usually require tenants to cover all utilities. Average monthly utility costs in the region range from $100 to $250 depending on usage and season. Ask about utility responsibility before signing a lease, and request average utility bills from the landlord or property manager for accurate budgeting.

Most landlords in Montecito look for a credit score of 650 or above, though requirements vary. Competitive neighborhoods may expect higher scores (700+), especially for luxury properties. If your credit score is below the threshold, you can strengthen your application with a larger security deposit, co-signer, proof of stable income (typically 2.5–3x monthly rent), or strong rental references. Some landlords also accept applicants with limited credit history if they can demonstrate reliable income. Our team can help you identify landlord-friendly options that match your financial profile.

First-time renters in Montecito should budget for move-in costs beyond the first month's rent: security deposit (up to two months' rent in California for unfurnished units), potential application fees, and utility setup charges. Start your search 30–45 days before your desired move-in date for the best selection. Tour properties in person when possible, inspect for maintenance issues, and document everything. California tenant protections are strong — familiarize yourself with your rights under AB 1482 and local ordinances. Our agents can guide you through the entire process at no cost to you.

Parking varies widely across Montecito. Apartment complexes and condos usually include one assigned space, with additional spots available for $50–$150/month. Single-family home rentals typically include driveway or garage parking. In more urban or coastal neighborhoods, street parking may be the only option and may require permits. If parking is important to you, clarify the parking situation before signing a lease — including guest parking, covered vs. uncovered, and any associated fees. Our agents know which buildings and neighborhoods offer the best parking arrangements.

California law caps security deposits at two months' rent for unfurnished units and three months' rent for furnished units. In practice, most Montecito landlords charge one to one-and-a-half months' rent as a security deposit. The deposit covers potential damages beyond normal wear and tear and must be returned within 21 days of move-out, along with an itemized statement of any deductions. Document the property's condition thoroughly at move-in with photos and a written checklist to protect your deposit when you move out.

California law allows early lease termination under specific circumstances, including military deployment, domestic violence, and uninhabitable living conditions. Outside those situations, breaking a lease typically involves paying an early termination fee (often one to two months' rent) as specified in your lease agreement. Landlords are required to make reasonable efforts to re-rent the unit, which can reduce your financial obligation. Always review your lease's early termination clause before signing, and consult with our team if you need guidance on your options and potential costs.

A Crown Coastal Homes agent gives you access to the full MLS rental inventory in Montecito, including listings that may not appear on consumer-facing sites. Our agents (CA DRE #02211952) know neighborhood nuances, landlord reputations, and upcoming availability that can give you an edge in a competitive market. We handle scheduling, applications, and lease negotiation at no cost to tenants — the landlord pays our commission. With typical response times under two hours, we help you move quickly on the best rentals before they're taken.

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