Best Nursing Homes in SANTA BARBARA, CA (2025)

Last Updated: November 2025

Nursing Homes

4.6

Average Rating

4+ Star Facilities

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About Nursing Homes in SANTA BARBARA

SANTA BARBARA stands out with 5 five-star nursing homes (71.4% of facilities)—significantly above the national average of 18.9%. With an average rating of 4.6 stars across 7 facilities, SANTA BARBARA offers strong options for quality senior care.

SANTA BARBARA Quick Facts:

•71.4% five-star rate (278% above the national average)
•57.1% chain-owned facilities (national average: 76%)
•3 nonprofit facilities (42.9% of market)
•100% of facilities have abuse violations

Nursing Home Costs in SANTA BARBARA

Nursing home costs in SANTA BARBARA, California average $385-$499 per day ($11,550-$14,970/month) for skilled nursing care, which is 35% above the national median according to the 2024 Genworth Cost of Care Survey. Most facilities accept Medicare for short-term rehabilitation (up to 100 days), private insurance, and Medicaid for eligible residents. Some facilities also participate in Veterans Aid & Attendance programs for qualifying veterans and spouses.

Market Overview

SANTA BARBARA's nursing homes include 57.1% for-profit, 42.9% nonprofit facilities.

Choosing a Nursing Home in SANTA BARBARA

Start by touring the 5 five-star facilities in SANTA BARBARA, which represent the top 71.4% by CMS quality metrics. Consider the 3 nonprofit facilities—research shows nonprofits earn five-star ratings at twice the rate of for-profits nationwide. Note that 7 facilities (100%) have documented abuse violations—review inspection reports carefully before deciding.

All nursing homes in SANTA BARBARA are licensed and inspected by the California Department of Public Health. Medi-Cal covers nursing home care for eligible California residents. For advocacy and complaints, contact the California Long-Term Care Ombudsman at 1-800-231-4024. California law requires nursing homes to maintain minimum staffing ratios, conduct quarterly inspections, and report all incidents to state authorities. Families can file complaints with the California Long-Term Care Ombudsman program, which investigates concerns about quality of care, resident rights, and facility conditions.

All Nursing Homes in SANTA BARBARA

Filter and sort facilities below. Default ranking uses our composite quality score, which combines CMS ratings, staffing quality, safety records, and compliance history.

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Showing 7 of 7 facilities in SANTA BARBARA