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Apartments for Rent in Santa Barbara, CA under $1200

92 Rentals Available
Apartments for Rent in Santa Barbara, CA under $1200. 92 Rentals Available
  • an apartment building on a hill with palm trees
    Today

    920 Lowena Drive, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
    STUDIO $65
  • the front porch of a house with steps and a door
    Today

    2027 Castillo Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
    STUDIO $200

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  • a row of houses with solar panels on the roof
    Today

    6779 Trigo Road, Goleta, CA 93117
    1 BED $1,200
2-1-city
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Getting around in Santa Barbara, CA

88 /100
Very Walkable
47 /100
Some Transit
83 /100
Very Bikeable
Walk Score®: 88, Transit Score®: 47, Bike Score®: 83

Frequently asked questions

When were prices and availability in Santa Barbara, CA last updated?

Prices and availability in Santa Barbara, CA were last updated on 5 Apr 2026.

What are the best apartments in Santa Barbara, CA?

The best apartments in Santa Barbara, CA are: Rancho Franciscan Senior Apartments, Verano Courtyards, Plaza Riviera, Coronel Place Apartments and The Marc.

What type of rental buildings are in Santa Barbara, CA?

In Santa Barbara 60% of the housing is rented out compared to 40% of homes are owned, according to the most recent Census Bureau estimates. 7% of Santa Barbara's apartments are found in large buildings of 50 units or more, 70% are located in smaller apartment complexes with less than 50 units, and 23% are single-family rentals.

Search for apartments in Santa Barbara, CA under $1,200

There’s more than one way to spend $1,200 on rent in Santa Barbara, CA, so the first step is to start thinking about what you really want from your new home. Be mindful of what makes you tick. Look for 2 bedroom apartments for rent for less than $1,200 if you want to share your living space and don’t mind being further away from the city center. Search for 3 bedroom apartments if you’re moving in with family or planning to share part of your life and living expenses with more friends. If city bustle is what you live for, you might want to search for a studio or 1 bedroom apartment closer to the city center.

The perfect $1,200 rental near you

Don’t dismiss the idea of a studio just because it sounds small and featureless: studios come in many shapes and sizes, and it only takes a few strikes of creativity to go from drab to lively. If an all-in-one-room apartment spells total lack of privacy for you, have a look at the 1 bedroom apartments for rent in Santa Barbara, CA. Customize your search by using more RentCafe filters. Decide what amenities you can’t live without and focus your search on the apartments that offer them. Are you bringing in a pet? Narrow your options to pet-friendly apartments for rent. Want more windows so that natural light floods your home? Hardwood floors or plush carpet in the living area? There are 3 apartments for rent below $1,200 in Santa Barbara, CA for every taste. Decide what you need, stay focused, and you’re bound to find your perfect apartment in no time.

Finding a home nearby is easier than you think. Check out our Apartments Near Me page and take your pick!