Santa Maria is the largest city in Santa Barbara County, California. According to the California State Department of Finance, Santa Maria's estimated population surpassed Santa Barbara's with an estimated population of 90,518. The 2000 census indicated Santa Maria's population at 77,423. The estimated population of the area is about 140,000, which includes the Santa Maria Valley, the city of Guadalupe and the unincorporated township of Orcutt. An additional 12,000 people live in Nipomo, near Santa Maria proper. Santa Maria is probably most notable for its ever expanding wine country and the creation of what is now commonly known as tri-tip and Santa Maria Style Barbecue. Santa Maria apartments for rent comparison page shows most up to date rent information on Santa Maria apartments and houses. Rent information is obtained from multiple rental sources but we cannot guarantee their accuracy.