CountyofSB.org 
Santa Barbara, Calif. – Newly finalized mortality data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that Santa Barbara County continues to rank among the counties with the lowest firearm death rates in California.
According to finalized CDC mortality data for 2023 comparing California counties, Santa Barbara County recorded:
- The 12th lowest total firearm death rate
- The 19th lowest firearm homicide death rate
- The 13th lowest firearm suicide rate
Preliminary 2024 data show an additional improvement, with Santa Barbara County’s total firearm death rate declining to 5.17 per 100,000 residents, ranking as the 5th lowest in California.
In each category, Santa Barbara County’s rates remained below both the California county average and national averages.
2020–2023 Aggregate Firearm Death Rates (per 100,000)
| Jurisdiction | Total Firearm Death Rate | Firearm Homicide Rate | Firearm Suicide Rate |
| United States | 14.06 | 6.16 | 7.43 |
| California | 8.53 | 4.34 | 3.82 |
| Santa Barbara County | 6.8 | 2.5 | 4.2 |
2023 Firearm Death Rates (per 100,000)
| Jurisdiction | Total Firearm Death Rate | Firearm Homicide Rate | Firearm Suicide Rate |
| United States | 13.73 | 5.63 | 7.64 |
| California | 8.0 | 3.7 | 3.9 |
| Santa Barbara County | 7.0 | 2.7 | 4.1 |
This data was compiled using CDC WONDER mortality records and analysis from the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions.
“While every loss of life involving firearms is tragic, these statistics reflect the ongoing efforts of our deputies, law enforcement partners, mental health professionals, educators, and community organizations working together to improve public safety throughout Santa Barbara County,” said Sheriff Bill Brown. “Our focus remains on prevention, responsible firearm ownership (including safe storage), intervention efforts, and continued collaboration to address violence and support people in crisis before tragedies occur.”
Statewide data show California continues to maintain some of the lowest firearm mortality rates in the nation. In 2024, California experienced an estimated 2,853 to 2,900 gun-related deaths, equating to approximately 7 deaths per 100,000 residents. Analysts reported that firearm violence in California declined approximately 9% between 2015 and 2024, while nationwide firearm violence increased approximately 15% during the same period.
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