Best Colleges and Universities in Santa Barbara, CA
The best colleges in Santa Barbara, CA include University of California-Santa Barbara, Westmont College, and Antioch University-Santa Barbara, based on EDsmart's 2027 rankings of 3 local colleges and universities. Compare cost, graduation rates, and career outcomes below to find a fit.
Key Facts
- Santa Barbara, CA has 3 colleges and universities in this ranking.
- Top-ranked school in Santa Barbara, CA: University of California-Santa Barbara.
- Median net price (city): $23,075. Median graduation rate: 75.7%.
- Data: U.S. Department of Education. Rankings by EDsmart (completion, affordability, support, career outcomes).
Colleges and Universities in Santa Barbara, CA at a Glance
Top 5 Colleges in Santa Barbara, CA
| Rank | School | Grade | Overall Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | University of California-Santa Barbara | A | #98 |
| #2 | Westmont College | B+ | #517 |
| #3 | Antioch University-Santa Barbara | B- | #1137 |
Quick Stats for Colleges in Santa Barbara, CA
Top 5 colleges in each category. Click a school for its full profile.
Most Affordable Colleges in Santa Barbara, CA
- University of California-Santa Barbara$16,807
- Westmont College$29,343
Colleges in Santa Barbara, CA with Highest Graduation Rates
Colleges in Santa Barbara, CA with Highest Graduate Earnings
Best Colleges in Santa Barbara, CA by Category
3 Best Colleges in Santa Barbara, CA
All 3 schools below are sorted by overall EDsmart rank. Click a school for its full profile.
How We Rank Colleges in Santa Barbara, CA
EDsmart's 2027 model weights four pillars equally—Completion, Affordability, Support, and Career Outcomes—using U.S. Department of Education metrics. Letter grades and the 0-100 EDsmart Score are cohort-relative (each school vs. the full ranked pool), not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
Data Source: U.S. Department of Education (2025–26 institution data, October 2026 release, updated October 28). Learn more about our methodology →
Citation: EDsmart rankings (methodology); school data from the U.S. Department of Education.
Frequently Asked Questions
What colleges are in Santa Barbara, CA?
Santa Barbara, CA has 3 colleges and universities in this EDsmart ranking, including University of California-Santa Barbara.
How many colleges are in Santa Barbara, CA?
Santa Barbara, CA has 3 colleges and universities in this EDsmart ranking.
What is the best college in Santa Barbara, CA?
The top-ranked college in Santa Barbara, CA in our 2027 rankings is University of California-Santa Barbara.
What are the best universities in Santa Barbara, CA?
The best universities in Santa Barbara, CA are led by University of California-Santa Barbara. Use the ranked list on this page to compare tuition, acceptance rates, graduation rates, and earnings.
How does EDsmart rank colleges?
EDsmart ranks colleges on four pillars—completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes—using standardized federal data. Grades and scores are cohort-relative to all ranked schools (including the 0-100 EDsmart Score index). See our full methodology.
Where does the data come from?
School data comes from the U.S. Department of Education. EDsmart applies its own ranking methodology to produce grades and ranks.
How to Choose the Right College in Santa Barbara, CA
Choosing a college is one of the most important decisions you'll make. For students considering Santa Barbara, CA, there are 3 colleges and universities to choose from, each offering unique programs, campus cultures, and career outcomes. Learn how EDsmart ranks colleges by completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What to Look for in Colleges in Santa Barbara, CA
When evaluating colleges in Santa Barbara, CA, consider these key factors:
- Graduation Rates: Look for schools with strong completion rates, indicating students receive the support needed to finish their degrees.
- Affordability: Compare net prices after financial aid, not just sticker prices. Many Santa Barbara, CA colleges offer generous aid packages.
- Career Outcomes: Research median earnings and employment rates for graduates from each institution.
- Campus Culture: Consider school size, student-faculty ratios, and retention rates to find your best fit.
Types of Colleges and Universities in Santa Barbara, CA
Santa Barbara, CA offers a diverse range of higher education options:
- Public Universities: State-funded institutions offering lower tuition for in-state residents
- Private Nonprofit Colleges: Independent institutions often with smaller class sizes and specialized programs
- Specialized Schools: Institutions focused on specific fields like arts, technology, or healthcare
Comparing Colleges and Universities in Santa Barbara, CA
Students often compare schools in Santa Barbara, CA on graduation rate, net price after aid, acceptance rate, and median earnings after graduation. The ranked list above shows all 3 local options on the same EDsmart scale so you can weigh affordability against outcomes.
Financial Aid and Scholarships for Colleges in Santa Barbara, CA
Many colleges in Santa Barbara, CA offer financial aid packages that can significantly reduce the cost of attendance. Be sure to:
- Complete the FAFSA to qualify for federal aid
- Research institution-specific scholarships
- Use each school's net price calculator for accurate cost estimates
- Compare financial aid offers from multiple Santa Barbara, CA colleges
Next Steps for Choosing a College in Santa Barbara, CA
Once you've reviewed our rankings of colleges in Santa Barbara, CA:
- Visit campus websites to learn about specific programs
- Schedule campus tours or virtual visits
- Contact admissions offices with questions
- Compare detailed profiles for your top choices
- Use net price calculators to understand true costs
Remember: The best college for you depends on your academic interests, career goals, financial situation, and personal preferences. Use our rankings methodology as a starting point, then dive deeper into the schools that interest you most. Each college in Santa Barbara, CA offers unique opportunities—find the one that aligns with your goals.
Schools Near Santa Barbara, CA
Top-ranked colleges and universities in nearby cities in CA.
Nearby Cities
Colleges and universities in other cities in CA.