Supplements: ECONOMY Renowned internationally for its fine restaurants, shopping, hotels and architecture, the tourism industry is the region's top economic driver. In addition, the city economy includes a large service sector, technology, health care, and finance. Education in particular is well-represented with several world-class higher learning institutions ... (Read more) ECONOMY Renowned internationally for its fine restaurants, shopping, hotels and architecture, the tourism industry is the region's top economic driver. In addition, the city economy includes a large service sector, technology, health care, and finance. Education in particular is well-represented with several world-class higher learning institutions including University of California Santa Barbara. LOCATION The city is 90 miles north of Los Angeles and served by the Santa Barbara Airport and Amtrak station. Tucked between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate averaging 300 sunny days a year. Beaches, parks and mountains provide a playground for a wide array of activities.