Santa Barbara County Property Taxes
The median property tax rate in Santa Barbara County is 1.09%, which is higher than the national median of 0.99% but lower than the California state median of 1.21%. With the median home value in Santa Barbara County at $420,000, the typical annual property tax bill reaches $4,701, surpassing the national median of $2,690. Property taxes in Santa Barbara County are calculated based on the tax assessed value, which often falls below the actual market value due to various property tax exemptions like the primary residence and agricultural exemptions. Understanding Santa Barbara County's specific property tax system, exploring available exemptions, and identifying opportunities for property tax reductions can provide significant annual savings. Whether you live in Santa Barbara or another part of Santa Barbara County, gaining a comprehensive knowledge of local property taxes will benefit both homeowners and real estate investors.
Last Updated June 14, 2024
Santa Barbara County Property Tax Bill Calculator
$100,000
$1,500,000
$3,000,000
Average Tax Rate
1.09%
Estimate Property Tax Bill
$4,578
$4,323
$1,148
Average Santa Barbara County Tax Savings
Ownwell’s Santa Barbara Property Tax Bill Calculator helps any homeowner, real estate investor, or potential owner to estimate their annual property taxes in Santa Barbara with just 2 data points. Enter your property's estimated assessed value, and our calculator applies the median tax rate in Santa Barbara to estimate your property tax bill. This insightful tool not only helps you understand potential tax liabilities but also highlights how Ownwell can help lower property taxes in Santa Barbara. If you’d like to see trends on a city level, scroll down to navigate to a more local informational page. Your property assessed value is the value assigned to your property by your county for property tax calculations. Assessed value takes into account any exemptions you may have on your property.
Property Tax Rates Across Santa Barbara County, California
Property taxes in Santa Barbara County play a crucial role in funding essential local services like public schools, road maintenance, and emergency services. The median tax rate in Santa Barbara County is 1.09%, which is higher than the U.S. national median of 0.99%. Local government entities within Santa Barbara County set these rates annually, and they can vary significantly between different areas within the county. Each year, Santa Barbara County estimates its required budget to maintain services for the upcoming fiscal year and divides this budget by the total value of all taxable property in the jurisdiction, resulting in the property tax rate. Although tax rates and budgets are influenced by laws and voter input, this calculation forms the basic process for setting property tax rates. The following data compares Santa Barbara County's effective property tax rate with other areas. For comparison, the city of Summerland has one of the higher property tax rates in the region at 1.18%, while the city of Orcutt boasts one of the lowest at 0.91%. Analyzing how Santa Barbara County's tax rates stack up against these benchmarks can give homeowners a better understanding of the local tax landscape.
Average Santa Barbara County Tax Rate
1.09%
Average California Tax Rate
1.21%
Average United States Tax Rate
0.99%
Property Tax Rates Across Santa Barbara County, California
| City | 10th Percentile | 25th Percentile | Median Tax Rate | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buellton | 1.03% | 1.05% | 1.06% | 1.07% | 1.07% |
| Carpinteria | 1.03% | 1.09% | 1.16% | 1.29% | 1.65% |
| Casmalia | 0.92% | 1.03% | 1.08% | 1.08% | 1.08% |
| Cuyama | 1.00% | 1.06% | 1.07% | 1.25% | 1.39% |
| Goleta | 1.06% | 1.08% | 1.11% | 1.19% | 1.38% |
| Guadalupe | 0.93% | 1.07% | 1.12% | 1.14% | 1.16% |
| Lompoc | 1.05% | 1.09% | 1.11% | 1.13% | 1.21% |
| Los Alamos | 1.05% | 1.08% | 1.09% | 1.10% | 1.10% |
| Los Olivos | 1.05% | 1.08% | 1.14% | 1.20% | 1.31% |
| Maricopa | 1.02% | 1.05% | 1.05% | 1.11% | 1.27% |
| New Cuyama | 1.04% | 1.05% | 1.09% | 1.12% | 1.22% |
| Orcutt | 0.71% | 0.79% | 0.91% | 1.09% | 1.55% |
| Santa Barbara | 1.02% | 1.04% | 1.05% | 1.09% | 1.18% |
| Santa Maria | 0.99% | 1.08% | 1.11% | 1.31% | 1.49% |
| Santa Ynez | 1.03% | 1.05% | 1.07% | 1.21% | 1.34% |
| Solvang | 1.00% | 1.04% | 1.06% | 1.07% | 1.08% |
| Summerland | 1.04% | 1.10% | 1.18% | 1.36% | 2.09% |
Source: Ownwell
$1,148
Average Santa Barbara County Tax Savings
Save on your property taxes & more with Ownwell.
Property Tax Assessment Values Across Santa Barbara County, California
In Santa Barbara County, understanding the difference between "market value" and "assessed value" is key to comprehending property taxes. The market value represents the price a willing buyer would pay to a willing seller in an open, competitive market, considering location, property condition, and current economic trends. For tax purposes, this value is estimated by the Santa Barbara County Appraisal District. The assessed value, however, is the market value minus any applicable exemptions or limits based on local laws and available programs. The assessed value is then used to calculate your property taxes by multiplying it by the combined tax rates of all relevant taxing entities. Assessment notices in Santa Barbara County are typically mailed in the spring, usually by the middle of April. These notices provide homeowners with both the market and assessed values, along with an estimate of the annual property tax bill. By distinguishing between these valuation concepts, property owners can better navigate their tax responsibilities and understand how their property taxes are affected. Being aware of these valuation processes in Santa Barbara County will help you identify opportunities for appealing assessments or applying for exemptions to manage your tax burden more effectively. For instance, the city with the highest median tax bill is Summerland, where homeowners pay around $11,043, while Orcutt has the lowest median tax bill at $278. This stark contrast highlights the importance of understanding and managing your property's assessed value to optimize your tax obligations.
Property Tax Assessment Values Across Santa Barbara County, California
Source: Ownwell
$33,414
$1,094,682
$2,155,949
Average Santa Barbara County Assessed Value
$420,000
Average California Assessed Value
$378,421
Average United States Assessed Value
$244,900
Property Tax Assessment Values Across Santa Barbara County, California
| City | 10th Percentile | 25th Percentile | Median Home Price | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buellton | $186,651 | $325,431 | $520,200 | $684,450 | $849,830 |
| Carpinteria | $95,056 | $250,680 | $527,860 | $899,045 | $1,499,714 |
| Casmalia | $30,593 | $45,489 | $104,398 | $194,886 | $346,804 |
| Cuyama | $22,252 | $26,556 | $40,183 | $49,688 | $283,272 |
| Goleta | $118,777 | $266,439 | $528,926 | $857,759 | $1,143,000 |
| Guadalupe | $90,148 | $132,806 | $246,530 | $404,636 | $490,150 |
| Lompoc | $84,495 | $180,800 | $283,815 | $409,917 | $546,602 |
| Los Alamos | $103,300 | $295,609 | $493,093 | $662,964 | $794,643 |
| Los Olivos | $210,619 | $414,378 | $750,025 | $1,257,301 | $1,790,680 |
| Maricopa | $35,752 | $93,422 | $132,292 | $164,684 | $375,500 |
| New Cuyama | $35,702 | $70,793 | $112,947 | $153,000 | $186,090 |
| Orcutt | $16,082 | $21,978 | $33,414 | $70,764 | $188,289 |
| Santa Barbara | $140,432 | $361,988 | $765,885 | $1,366,775 | $2,525,948 |
| Santa Maria | $86,643 | $200,963 | $322,379 | $454,933 | $582,475 |
| Santa Ynez | $277,744 | $503,589 | $841,266 | $1,438,142 | $2,481,021 |
| Solvang | $168,558 | $387,706 | $670,740 | $989,644 | $1,508,279 |
| Summerland | $108,115 | $373,055 | $966,581 | $1,707,712 | $2,564,593 |
Source: Ownwell
$1,148
Average Santa Barbara County Tax Savings
Save on your property taxes & more with Ownwell.
Property Tax Bills Across Santa Barbara County, California
In Santa Barbara County, CA, property tax bills are calculated based on the assessed value of your home, which is influenced by the market value. The median home price in the county is $420,000, and property tax rates can vary significantly, with the 25th percentile tax bill at $2,615 and the 75th percentile reaching up to $8,201. In some areas, like Summerland, the highest median tax bill can be as steep as $11,043, while in Orcutt, it can be as low as $278. These variations are due to differences in property values and local tax rates. Homeowners need to be aware of these factors as they directly impact their annual tax obligations. Ownwell can assist homeowners in reducing their property tax bills by appealing inaccurate assessments and identifying eligible exemptions. By leveraging our expertise, you can ensure that your property is fairly assessed, potentially saving you thousands of dollars each year. Let Ownwell navigate the complexities of property taxes, so you don’t have to.
Average Santa Barbara County Tax Bill
$4,701
Average California Tax Bill
$4,683
Average United States Tax Bill
$2,690
Property Tax Bills Across Santa Barbara County, California
| City | 10th Percentile | 25th Percentile | Median Tax Bill | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buellton | $1,904 | $3,370 | $5,457 | $7,102 | $8,852 |
| Carpinteria | $1,660 | $3,335 | $6,144 | $9,882 | $15,738 |
| Casmalia | $254 | $454 | $1,090 | $1,943 | $3,512 |
| Cuyama | $236 | $356 | $488 | $688 | $2,531 |
| Goleta | $1,681 | $3,104 | $5,810 | $9,105 | $11,764 |
| Guadalupe | $785 | $1,394 | $2,517 | $4,212 | $5,183 |
| Lompoc | $907 | $1,948 | $3,052 | $4,412 | $5,997 |
| Los Alamos | $1,093 | $3,101 | $5,185 | $7,097 | $8,523 |
| Los Olivos | $2,626 | $4,900 | $8,307 | $13,051 | $17,911 |
| Maricopa | $453 | $1,001 | $1,178 | $1,693 | $3,586 |
| New Cuyama | $383 | $708 | $1,187 | $1,597 | $1,932 |
| Orcutt | $139 | $178 | $278 | $908 | $3,029 |
| Santa Barbara | $1,646 | $3,783 | $7,855 | $13,920 | $25,303 |
| Santa Maria | $1,044 | $2,338 | $3,804 | $5,354 | $6,864 |
| Santa Ynez | $3,406 | $5,779 | $9,309 | $15,011 | $25,502 |
| Solvang | $1,701 | $4,007 | $6,936 | $10,509 | $15,014 |
| Summerland | $2,342 | $5,792 | $11,043 | $18,513 | $27,658 |
Source: Ownwell
$1,148
Average Santa Barbara County Tax Savings
Save on your property taxes & more with Ownwell.
Want to lower your Santa Barbara County property taxes?
Looking to reduce your Santa Barbara property taxes? Ownwell is the leading property tax protest company serving Santa Barbara. We specialize in helping property owners in the Santa Barbara area and beyond lower their taxes by working directly with the Santa Barbara Appraisal District. Through our tax monitoring service, we collect all necessary information to maximize your tax reductions. We navigate the complexities of the Santa Barbara property tax protest process and identify all available property tax exemptions so you don’t have to. Whether you are a homeowner, a real estate investor, or an asset manager, our local team at Ownwell has the expertise to assess your current property tax situation and identify strategic opportunities for reducing your tax burden. By managing the protest process from beginning to end, we not only simplify the procedure but also increase your chances of obtaining a favorable result. Let Ownwell be your trusted partner in lowering your Santa Barbara property tax expenses through our proven strategies and expert advocacy.
Property Tax Appeals in California
In Santa Barbara County, the property tax protest process begins with homeowners receiving their property tax assessments. If they believe their property has been over-assessed, they have the right to appeal. The appeal process involves several steps, starting with filing an appeal with the County Assessment Appeals Board, which is the official body that reviews and decides on these disputes. Homeowners must submit their appeal forms by a specific deadline, usually within 60 days of receiving their assessment notice. The appeal form requires detailed information about the property and a clear argument as to why the assessed value is believed to be incorrect. Supporting evidence, such as recent sales data of comparable properties, professional appraisals, or photographs showing the property's condition, can strengthen the appeal. Once the appeal is filed, the Assessment Appeals Board schedules a hearing where the homeowner can present their case. During the hearing, both the homeowner and the county assessor's office present their evidence and arguments. The board then reviews the information and makes a decision. The potential outcomes of the appeal can range from a reduction in the assessed value, which would lower the property tax bill, to no change if the board finds the original assessment to be accurate. Ownwell can significantly aid homeowners throughout this process by providing expert guidance and representation. Our team of property tax consultants can help gather the necessary evidence, prepare the appeal documents, and present a compelling case to the Assessment Appeals Board. By leveraging our expertise, homeowners increase their chances of achieving a favorable outcome, potentially saving thousands of dollars in property taxes.
Exemptions in California
Santa Barbara County offers several property tax exemption programs designed to alleviate the financial burden on homeowners. One of the primary exemptions is the Homeowners' Exemption, which provides a reduction in assessed value for primary residences. To qualify, the homeowner must occupy the property as their principal place of residence as of January 1st of the tax year. Another significant exemption is the Veterans' Exemption, available to veterans who meet specific criteria, including disability status and income limits. This exemption offers a substantial reduction in assessed property value, easing the tax burden for those who have served in the military. The Senior Citizens' Property Tax Postponement Program allows eligible seniors to defer their property taxes until the home is sold or the owner passes away. This program is particularly beneficial for seniors on a fixed income, providing immediate financial relief. Homeowners can apply for these exemptions by submitting the appropriate forms to the Santa Barbara County Assessor's Office. Ownwell can assist homeowners in navigating the application process, ensuring that all necessary documentation is accurately completed and submitted on time. By leveraging Ownwell's expertise, homeowners can maximize their savings and take full advantage of these beneficial programs.
Available Exemptions
Disabled
Home Stead
Solar/Wind
Non-Profit
Don't miss the deadline to appeal!
Dates | |
|---|---|
| Property Valuation Date | January 1 |
| Appeal Deadline | December 2 |
| Tax Bill | |
| Issued | October 1 |
| Due Date #1 | December 10 |
| Due Date #2 | April 10 |
Links | |
|---|---|
| Santa Barbara Tax Assessor | |
| Website | www.sbcvote.com |
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