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Hope, Santa Barbara,CA

Neighborhood Data
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Discovering the charm of Hope, a delightful neighborhood in southeast Santa Barbara, CA, is like finding a hidden gem. This area offers a wonderful blend of residential comfort and vibrant local culture, making it an ideal spot for those relocating or moving into the city. One of the standout attractions here is the beautiful Hope School, a community hub that hosts events and brings neighbors together. Nature lovers will appreciate the nearby Hope Ranch Golf Club, providing scenic views and a great place for both beginners and seasoned golfers to enjoy their game. The neighborhood's tree-lined streets and well-maintained parks add to the welcoming atmosphere, perfect for families and individuals alike.

Hope is notably convenient for those who want easy access to Downtown Santa Barbara without sacrificing a quieter living environment. Just a short drive northwest, downtown offers a bustling mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural experiences, including the iconic Santa Barbara County Courthouse and the historic State Street. Residents of Hope can easily enjoy the best of both worlds — returning to a peaceful neighborhood while being minutes away from the city’s lively core. This proximity also means quick access to local farmers' markets, art galleries, and the stunning waterfront, which are perfect for weekend outings or casual evening strolls.

For families and individuals moving to the area, Hope provides a supportive community feel with practical amenities close at hand. Local cafes and boutique stores add charm and convenience, while nearby schools and community centers ensure there are plenty of opportunities to connect and engage. Whether you’re a young professional, a growing family, or someone looking to enjoy Santa Barbara’s sunny climate in a friendly neighborhood, Hope offers a balanced lifestyle with plenty to explore. With its blend of natural beauty, community spirit, and proximity to downtown, Hope is a wonderful place to call home.

Community Snapshot

Population 3,084
Density (People/sqml.) 5,467
Median Age 47.6
Married Couples
43%
43% of the population of Hope aged 16 years and older are married.
Have Kids
22%
22% of the population aged 16 years or older have children.

22% of the Hope population aged 16 and up are married, which is in line with national averages. This balance suggests a neighborhood with a healthy mix of families, couples, and single residents, creating a well-rounded community dynamic. You are likely to find a blend of stability and social variety, appealing to both long-term homeowners and younger professionals alike.

With only 22% of people over 16 having children, you can expect an easygoing environment that tends to attract residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. The atmosphere here leans more toward adult-oriented living. Without the constant rhythm of school schedules or kid-centered events, the community maintains a slower, more relaxed pace. This makes it especially appealing to singles, couples, and empty nesters who appreciate tranquil streets, and recreation on their own terms.

Age Breakdown

Hope neighborhood age breakdown chart

Hope demographics offer valuable insights into the character and lifestyle of the neighborhood, helping you understand who lives there and what daily life might feel like. Home to only about 3,084 residents, Hope is notably smaller than many other Santa Barbara neighborhoods, creating a more peaceful and community-oriented atmosphere. Its lower population can translate to quieter streets, a more relaxed pace of life, and easier access to local amenities — all without sacrificing the vibrant urban lifestyle the city is known for.

Hope has a population density of 5,467, which strikes a balanced feel when compared to other Santa Barbara neighborhoods. The area offers just the right mix of activity and breathing room, creating a community that’s lively yet comfortable, with easy access to amenities and everyday conveniences.

Home to a population with a higher-than-average age of 48, this area offers a calm and refined atmosphere shaped by experience and tradition. The neighborhood’s more mature demographic fosters a strong sense of community, a relaxed pace of life, and an environment that’s both welcoming and well-established — making it an especially appealing choice for retirees seeking comfort, stability, and connection.

Crime in Hope

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Total Crime Incidents
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Types of Crime

Hope neighborhood age breakdown chart

Hope Crime Map

The Hope crime map uses detailed block group boundaries from address-based crime data to visualize crime patterns across the neighborhood, highlighting both low-crime zones and areas with higher levels of reported crime. This crime heat map helps paint a clearer picture of local safety trends, showing how crime can vary from one part of the community to another. Keep in mind that areas with higher activity on the map don’t always equate to dangerous conditions — locations near entertainment districts, major roads, or tourist destinations often see more reports simply due to the larger number of people passing through.

Housing

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Home Price $1,039,560
Median Rent $2,135
People/Household 2.3

Home Price Breakdown

Hope neighborhood home price breakdown chart

Rent vs Own

Rent 52% Own 48%

Year Moved In

Before 2010 48% After 2010 52%

Types of Homes in the Area

Market Trends

Year-over-Year YoY data

 

Housing costs often reflect the desirability and overall character of a neighborhood. In Hope, home prices come in around $1,039,560, which is higher than many other areas. This elevated pricing points to a sought-after location with strong demand, well-maintained properties, and access to premium amenities that contribute to a higher quality of life. Historical home price trends and appreciation rates in Hope can serve as a window into the neighborhood’s economic strength and future potential. By understanding how the market has performed in the past, buyers and investors can better evaluate whether the area offers promising opportunities for growth and long-term value.

With an average rent price of $2,135, rental rates in Hope are higher than many other neighborhoods. This reflects the area’s desirability and strong demand, often accompanied by well-maintained properties, premium amenities, and a high quality of life.

Walkability & Lifestyle

Coffee Shops

Peet's Coffee
Coffee Shop
min.
min.
Fresco Cafe
Coffee Shop
min.
min.

Entertainment

The Hitchcock Cinema & Public House
Cinema
min.
min.
Earl Warren Show Grounds
Attraction
min.
min.

Food & Drink

McDonald's
Fast Food
min.
min.
La Salsa
Fast Food
min.
min.

Groceries

Smart & Final
Grocery Store
min.
min.
Vons
Grocery Store
min.
min.

Parks

Los Robles Park
Park
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Willow Glen Park
Park
min.
min.

Shops

Great Clips
Hairdresser
min.
min.
European Wax Center
Beauty
min.
min.

Getting Around

Transit Stops

La Colina & Lee
Bus Stop
min.
min.
La Cumbre & La Colina
Bus Stop
min.
min.

Transit Stations

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Health & Safety

Medical Facilities

Sansum Clinic
Clinic
min.
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CVS Pharmacy
Pharmacy
min.
min.

Health Care

Dermatology Aesthetics Center
Doctor
min.
min.
The Ryn Hurvitz Orthopedic Clinic
Doctor
min.
min.

Safety

SB Fire Station 4
Fire Station
min.
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Santa Barbara County Fire Department Headquarters
Fire Station
min.
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Top Neighborhood Schools

Name Category Grades Rating
Santa Barbara County Juvenile Court
4400 Cathedral Oaks Rd., Santa Barbara, CA
High School 7 - 12 School Score
Hope Elementary
3970-A La Colina Rd., Santa Barbara, CA
Elementary School KG - 6 School Score
Open Alternative
4025 Foothill Rd., Santa Barbara, CA
Elementary School KG - 6 School Score
Eureka School Of Santa Barbara
3324 State St Ste M, Santa Barbara, CA
High School 10 - 12 School Score
Santa Barbara County Rop-South
4400 Cathedral Oaks Rd., Santa Barbara, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score
Santa Barbara County Community
4400 Cathedral Oaks Rd., Santa Barbara, CA
High School 7 - 12 School Score
Bishop Garcia Diego High School
4000 La Colina Rd, Santa Barbara, CA
High School 9 - 12 School Score

Education Level Achieved

School ratings in Hope combine factors like student performance, graduation rates, and standardized test scores to provide a clear picture of overall educational quality. The use of NAEP (National Assessment of Educational Progress) scores adds valuable context by offering a consistent national benchmark to see how local schools compare on a broader scale. Additionally, understanding the overall education level achieved by residents in Hope can give insight into the community’s priorities and opportunities, helping families make more informed decisions about where to live and how well local schools may support long-term student success.

Economy

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Income Per Capita $48,996
Household Income $121,514
Unemployment 1.2%

Income Breakdown

Hope Income breakdown chart

Employment by Industry

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The economic makeup of a neighborhood often tells a deeper story about its lifestyle, opportunities, and overall character. In Hope, median household incomes average $121,514, which is higher than many surrounding neighborhoods. This elevated earning power helps support a more upscale environment, offering residents access to premium amenities, well-maintained surroundings, and a standard of living that emphasizes comfort and quality.

The strength of a neighborhood’s local economy is often reflected in its employment landscape, shaping daily life and long-term stability for residents. In Hope, the unemployment rate is just 1%, indicating a strong and resilient community with steady economic growth, active local businesses, and a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of homes are common?

In the Hope neighborhood of Santa Barbara, CA, the housing stock primarily consists of charming Craftsman-style bungalows and mid-century ranch homes. Many properties feature well-maintained gardens and mature trees, contributing to the neighborhood’s cozy and established feel. There are also some newer infill developments, but the overall architectural style remains classic and residential.

Are there any community events or local gatherings throughout the year?

Hope hosts several community events that bring residents together, including seasonal block parties and neighborhood clean-up days. Notably, the Hope Neighborhood Association organizes an annual summer picnic at nearby Esperanza Community Park, where families enjoy food, music, and games. Additionally, the area participates in Santa Barbara’s larger events, such as the Old Spanish Days Fiesta, with some local celebrations centered around the neighborhood.

How far is Downtown?

Hope is located conveniently just about 2 to 3 miles northwest of Downtown Santa Barbara. This means residents can easily reach the vibrant downtown area, known for its historic State Street, boutique shops, restaurants, and landmarks like the Santa Barbara County Courthouse, within a 10-minute drive or a 20-30 minute bike ride. Public transit options such as the MTD bus system also provide affordable and accessible routes to downtown.

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