Downtown

I lived in Santa Barbara for two full years, and I loved every minute of it. The beaches are warm and the people are very nice. The parks are clean (and abundant).

Shopping on State street is sublime, the Paseo mall is located centrally, and everything is within a walkable distance.

The nightlife is very happening, lower State always has bars & clubs open until the wee hours of the morning, or if you'd rather get smashed there's always Isla Vista about 20 minutes away.

It's a fun town, really nice people, great beaches and a ton well maintained parks. Parking is usually a problem during the day but nighttime parking is really easy.

The title pretty much says it all, but allow me to elaborate. I live on the west side, near to the commercial heart of downtown (State Street, etc.) Like most downtown areas of cities, the living cost is high but unlike large metropolitan cities, most of downtown Santa Barbara is well-maintained and lavish. The climate is pristine and perfect almost year-round, and there is a bustling bar scene and nightlife.

It is also extremely easy to function and commute without a car here. Santa Barbara has an efficient (for the most part) bus system and is extremely bike friendly with plenty of bike lanes spanning for miles.

My only complaint for this neighborhood and Santa Barbara in general is the dating scene. Recently, I lucked out and finally met Mr. Right, but this was after a horrendous two-year stint of single living. Santa Barbara men are fond of toying with your emotions and stringing you along, guaranteed to make you feel slightly crazy after awhile. Male friends of mine have told me Santa Barbara women can be equally if not more heartless, so single people interested in moving here, beware. You will be in for interesting and painful ride which may or may not end up as you like.