“Buy land, they’re not making it anymore.” – Mark Twain
High’s and Low’s are the story of Montecito in July.
This past month Montecito saw 15 sales, up 67% compared to July 2024. The average sales price reached $6.7M, a 27% increase, while the median rose to $5.3M, up 23%, reflecting continued appreciation. Homes averaged 89 days on market, with two closing off-market — signaling more sales, higher prices, and sustained strong demand.
From an entry-level property with untapped potential to a premier Mediterranean estate, this past month showed where opportunity meets value, here’s a look at the highest and lowest sales.
High Sales – 319 & 289 San Ysidro Road | 799 Lilac Drive
Two standout sales led July’s market. 319 & 289 San Ysidro Road, which included 3 acres of vacant land, sold off-market for $55M, 44.7% higher than its $38M sale just last year.
Over on Lilac Drive, a Mediterranean estate listed in April for $14.5M, reduced to $13.5M in May, closed in July for $13M, just 10.3% below its original asking price. The luxury market continues to achieve strong results.
Low Sale - 770 Coyote Road
Previously closing for $4.2M in August 2021 during the height of the Covid real estate surge, this 4.73-acre Montecito hills fixer returned to the market in January 2025 at $4M. Reduced to $3.5M in April, it ultimately sold in July for $3.4M, 15% below its original asking price, offering a rare entry point in Montecito under $5M.
Opportunity Knocks
From raw acreage to prime parcels, land in Montecito remains one of the most powerful opportunities in the market. In July, 849 Ashley Road sold for $4M (1.92 acres) and 750 Hot Springs Road sold for $3.249M (1.02 acres), each selling for $2M–$3M per acre. Here are a few exceptional lots we have our eyes on right now: Click Here
What Happened in Montecito Last Week?
July 27th – August 2nd
weekly spotlight
What's Happening this Month
August in Montecito and Santa Barbara offers a vibrant mix of traditions, music, and outdoor experiences, perfect for enjoying the summer season.
Music Academy of the West – Soundtrack to Summer: August 3-9 • World-class concerts, opera, and master classes.
Hotel Californian, RooftopSunset Sessions: Sundays in August • Live DJ sets and music under the stars.
Majorelle Saturday Sessions at Hotel Californian: Saturdays in August • Morning wellness classes including yoga and body-weight sculpt.
Music at the Ranch at The Stow House: Tuesdays, August 5, 12, 19 • Free outdoor concerts in a family-friendly setting.
Santa Barbara County Cars & Coffee at Manning Park, Montecito: August 17 • Morning meet-up featuring classic and exotic cars.
Folded Hills Events in Montecito & at The Ranch: August 7–24 • Vinyl nights, golden hour tastings, vineyard hikes, and cheese pairings.
