The principal industrial sector of Santa Barbara County is located in the City of Goleta. The City is home to approximately 80 research and development firms in the hi-tech field including those that specialize in electronics, telecommunications, medical research, national security and remote sensing manufacturing that contribute significantly to the local economy.
Experiencing everything the Goleta Valley has to offer in one day is no easy task. The valley — a coastal plain, to be geographically correct — lies comfortably between the soaring Santa Ynez Mountains to the north and the sparkling blue waters of the Santa Barbara Channel to the south.
The area’s temperate climate and fertile soil supported native Chumash tribes for thousands of years. Spanish explorers, missionaries and Mexican ranchers were also drawn to the valley, whose name, Goleta, is Spanish for schooner — a reference to the small ships that harbored safely in the Goleta Slough.
Large ranches once blanketed the valley, growing lima beans, walnuts, lemons and avocados. Today, Goleta proudly maintains that rich agricultural heritage while enjoying the fruits of a world-class research university, a wealth of open space and breathtaking coastal views, and top-notch recreational facilities and opportunities. Not to mention some of the best shopping around!
Nestled in the foothills above Goleta is Glen Annie Golf Course. From Stow House, head west along Cathedral Oaks Road to this gem of a golf facility with beautiful views of the mountains, valley and ocean. Loosen up and practice your swing at the driving range or simply relax and soak in the sun and the views with a cold drink on the clubhouse patio.
Nothing beats a sunset stroll at Goleta Beach County Park, an expansive arc of glistening white sand, rolling surf and towering palm trees. Sit and relax with your feet virtually in the sand at the Beachside Bar/Cafe and marvel at the brilliant colors as the sun sets on another perfect day in the Goleta Valley.
Housing Cost
Estimated median house or condo value in 2008: $833,884
Mean prices in 2008: All housing units: $1,009,848; Detached houses: $1,175,557; Townhouses or other attached units: $597,579; In 2-unit structures: $790,275; In 3-to-4-unit structures: $554,633; In 5-or-more-unit structures: $402,049; Mobile homes: $133,787; Occupied boats, RVs, vans, etc.: $110,938
Demographics
Population in July 2007: 55,516. Goleta covers 26.3 square miles. It sits at an elevation of 20 feet above sea level. Zip codes: 93116, 93117, 93118, 93199. Area code commonly used in this area: 805
Weather
Goleta, CA climate is mild during summer when temperatures tend to be in the 60's and cool during winter when temperatures tend to be in the 50's.
The warmest month of the year is August with an average maximum temperature of 78.70 degrees Fahrenheit, while the coldest month of the year is December with an average minimum temperature of 39.90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Temperature variations between night and day tend to be moderate during summer with a difference that can reach 20 degrees Fahrenheit, and moderate during winter with an average difference of 23 degrees Fahrenheit.
The annual average precipitation at Goleta is 16.93 Inches. Winter months tend to be wetter than summer months. The wettest month of the year is February with an average rainfall of 4.28 Inches.
Information provided by idcide.com and city data.com