Protecting the Environment Boosts Home Values—Just Look at Santa Barbara, California

To be fair, Santa Barbara County was born beautiful—but its pioneering environmental policies have maintained a level of splendor that has helped fuel booming property values.

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the verdant Santa Ynez Valley with the Santa Ynez Mountains sandwiched in between, the Central California enclave of almost half a million people is nicknamed “America’s Riviera” for its year-round vernal climate and Spanish rooftops. Along the 110 miles of coastline a string of towns retain a classic California beach-town vibe; while inland, the east-to-west traversing Santa Ynez Valley enjoys 15,000 acres of vineyards, multiple wineries and a laid back, ranching lifestyle.