Relocating from Omaha..looking for advice on Santa Barbara Area (Goleta: rentals, home)

[Talya31]

Hi all! I used this forum when looking to relocate to a nice neighborhood around Omaha, and folks were extremely helpful. But alas, my roomie and I are bored to tears with the lack of scenery, energy and overall blah-ness of this place. *shocker* Not to mention the tornado that ripped out our tree in the backyard and almost took out our house. Oh yeah..and the cold weather, UGH. (I originally moved here from upstate NY, which is freezing, but at least there is quite a bit of scenic beauty.)

We're active, fit, both 32, and are looking to spend about 2500/month on a modest home rental. And, we may be bringing in a third roomie, which may increase our rental budget. We're happy to downsize (we won't have much of a choice) but must be in an area that's FUN and relatively safe. Preferably, within the Santa Barbara area. I'm hearing about Goleta?

Any advice is welcome regarding different communities, job market, night life, dining, etc.

Thanks

[Charles]

What line of work are you in?

[Coolhand68]

State Street in Santa Barbara is the hub of nightlife and restuarants. It's a beautiful street that leads right to the beach. I don't think you'll have any trouble finding rentals within your budget in Goleta and parts of SB.

[summersb]

I personally prefer Santa Barbara than Goleta. Goleta is slightly cheaper, but there is really not a scenic downtown area and all the nightlife happens in Santa Barbara. Goleta is more sub-urban, family oriented.

Good luck!