For the 2026 school year, there are 4 community colleges serving 24,557 students in Santa Barbara County County, California.
The top-ranked community college in Santa Barbara County, CA is Lionel University.
The average community college acceptance rate in California is 77% (compared to national acceptance rates).
Minority enrollment is 72% of the student body (majority Hispanic), and the student:teacher ratio is 48:1.
Top-Ranked Santa Barbara County Community Colleges (2026)
College
Location
Quick Facts
Lionel University
Private for-profit
1013 Mark Avenue
Carpinteria, CA 93013
(800) 650-4772
Carpinteria, CA 93013
(800) 650-4772
Enrollment: 578 students Minority enrollment: 60%
Allan Hancock College
Public
800 South College Drive
Santa Maria, CA 93454
(805) 922-6966
Santa Maria, CA 93454
(805) 922-6966
Enrollment: 11,463 students Acceptance rate: 98% In-state tuition: $1,346 Out-state tuition: $6,750 Minority enrollment: 81%
San Joaquin Valley College-Santa Maria
Private for-profit
303 Plaza Drive
Santa Maria, CA 93454
(559) 734-9000
Santa Maria, CA 93454
(559) 734-9000
Enrollment: 182 students Minority enrollment: 85%
Santa Barbara City College
Public
721 Cliff Drive
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
(805) 965-0581
Santa Barbara, CA 93109
(805) 965-0581
Enrollment: 12,334 students Student-teacher ratio: 43:1 In-state tuition: $1,374 Out-state tuition: $6,836 Minority enrollment: 64%
Frequently Asked Questions
How many community colleges are located in Santa Barbara County, CA?
There are 4 community colleges serving 24,557 students in Santa Barbara County, CA.
What is the community college acceptance rate in Santa Barbara County, CA?
The average community college acceptance rate in California is 77% (compared to national acceptance rates).
How diverse are community colleges in Santa Barbara County, CA?
Community colleges in Santa Barbara County, CA have approximately 72% minority enrollment, with the majority being Hispanic.
Recent Articles
Community Colleges and Careers in Climate Tech and Green Energy
Learn how community colleges are preparing students for careers in climate tech and green energy through specialized training and workforce programs.
Virtual Reality Training Programs in Community Colleges
Explore how virtual reality training programs in community colleges are preparing students for careers in healthcare, manufacturing, public safety, and more.
Design-Your-Own Degree Programs at Community Colleges
Discover how design-your-own degree programs at community colleges help students create personalized pathways for transfer and career success.