In Santa Barbara, Senior Living communities are in high demand, with waitlists ranging from a few years to more than a decade depending on the community and unit type. Long waits are common because residents often remain for years, enjoying the lifestyle, care and amenities these communities provide.
The good news? Joining a waitlist early brings peace of mind and perks—like event invitations, priority unit selection, and even opportunities to connect with future neighbors. By planning ahead, you’ll secure your place in one of Santa Barbara’s most desirable communities and make the transition when the timing is right for you.
Community Waitlist Details:
Casa Dorinda -Montecito
Waitlist: Casa Dorinda maintains a general waitlist with an estimated residency timeframe of 5 to 8 years, depending on availability and apartment type.
Notes: Certain residences, such as cottages or large two-bedrooms, may take longer
Valle Verde -Santa Barbara
Waitlist: 3-5 years for many independent living units; some specific floor plans may take up to 10+ years.
Notes: As a non-profit Life Plan Community, Valle Verde strongly encourages direct contact with a sales counselor for the most accurate, up-to-date details.
Maravilla -Goleta
Waitlist: Availability on a case by case basis.
Notes: Known for resort-style living and high demand, it’s best to contact Maravilla directly about availability and waitlist status.
Covenant Living at The Samarkand -Santa Barbara
Waitlist: 3-5 yrs
Notes: Wait times vary by level of care (independent living, assisted living, or skilled nursing). Direct inquiry is recommended.
Vista Del Monte (Front Porch Community) -Santa Barbara
Waitlist: Maintains a “reservation list” for those committed to Vista Del Monte but not yet ready to move. Length varies by unit type.
Notes: The sales and marketing team can provide updated details on timelines and availability.
Wood Glen Senior Living -Santa Barbara
Waitlist: Availability on a case by case basis.
Notes: The sales and marketing team can provide updated details on timelines and availability.
Alexander Gardens Assisted Living -Santa Barbara
Waitlist: Availability on a case by case basis.
Notes: The sales and marketing team can provide updated details on timelines and availability.
Why Waitlists Are Long:
High Demand, Low Supply: Santa Barbara’s beauty and desirability mean limited senior housing inventory fills quickly.
Life Plan/CCRC Options: Many residents remain in the same community as their health needs change, reducing turnover.
Location & Amenities: These campuses combine luxury, comprehensive care, and prime locations.
Specialized Units: Cottages, 2 bedrooms and unique floor plans carry even longer wait times than standard units.
Perks for Waitlist Members:
Several Santa Barbara communities offer unique benefits for those on the waitlist:
Casa Dorinda: Occasionally, waitlist members may be invited to select events and are able to receive their community newsletter by request.
Valle Verde: “Front Door Club” perks include invitations to events, community newsletters, and opportunities to meet future neighbors.
The Samarkand: A personalized “Your Day, Your Way” visit with dining, activities, and resident interaction.
Maravilla: Like many SRG communities, often extends event invitations and limited amenity access (confirm directly).
Vista Del Monte: Engagement with community events.
General benefits of being on a waitlist:
- Some priority choice of units.
- Peace of mind knowing your future housing is secured.
- Reduced stress during a health transition.
- Early social connections with future neighbors.
Nancy Newquist Nolan and Rachel Quittner of Your SB Real Estate Team along with experts Santa Barbara Senior Living Consultants hosted a Smart Senior Living Seminar. If you are interested in more information about senior communities in Santa Barbara, go to Your SB Team’s YouTube page: “YourSBTeam” to view or email Rachel for a link at [email protected]
In working with seniors, Nancy and Rachel also understand how important it is to start early. They host a monthly “Rightsizing SB Club” to help prepare for downsizing, rightsizing or even upsizing at their office in La Cumbre Plaza 2nd Mondays of the month, located next to Starbucks.
More info: www.yoursbteam.com
