THE MESA

Location:
Fronting the coastline along the city's southwestern boundary, the Mesa's main artery is Cliff Drive, flowing from Arroyo Burro Beach to Leadbetter Point. Spanish for "table", the name "Mesa" has been applied to this flat benchlike geographic feature of Santa Barbara since mission days.

Characteristics:
The Mesa is one of the city's oldest historical areas, while paradoxically one of its youngest residential neighborhoods. It was mostly oilfields until after World War II, when the blufftop's mild weather-- historically 10 degrees warmer in winter and cooler in summer-- led to a housing boom. Artists, writers, and marine enthusiasts have a special affinity for the Mesa as a carefree place to live, and until recently most homes were quite modest. Spectacular views from some properties have led to a recent revitalization and subsequent increase in valuations.

Price Range:
$680,000 to $2,200,000