If 2025 were a high-society treasure hunt, the Montecito Journal’s “Sightings” column would be the map. Below is a playful roundup of the most buzzed-about appearances this year — and the whispered “did you see that?” keeps locals checking their rearview mirrors.

Sir Paul McCartney Passes Through Montecito, and Taylor Swift takes in his performance at the Santa Barbara Bowl.

April 29, 2025 — “Sighting Mix Up”A Montecito Journal column described a case of mistaken identity: someone walking in Beverly Hills was reported as Rob Lowe, though the actor later denied it. The entry frames it as a playful “mix-up,” with the public’s eye staying sharp. Montecito Journal

June 24, 2025 — “Balancing Finance and Fame” In a column, the author mentions seeing (or hearing of sightings of) Robert Mitchum, Jane Seymour, Kirk and Michael Douglas, Peter Cetera, and “others arriving.” It’s presented as a kind of social roll call at local events. Montecito Journal

June 24, 2025 — “Change of Plans”The Montecito Journal’s “Change of Plans” entry mentions Taylor Armstrong (from Real Housewives of Beverly Hills) dining locally, and speculates whether she’s visiting, scouting, or just enjoying time in the area. Montecito Journal

October 14, 2025 — “Sir Paul McCartney: We Don’t Know You, But We Love You”The Journal ran a feature tied to Paul McCartney’s appearance at the Santa Barbara Bowl, and describes his resonance with the Montecito / SB region. The phrasing suggests awareness of his presence or connection, even if not a literal “sighting at the local café.” Montecito Journal

REAL ESTATE SALES

Adam Levine’s $60M Montecito Sale Sets a New Record

Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine and model Behati Prinsloo sold their Montecito estate for a jaw-dropping $60 million, setting a new record for an on-market sale in the area. The 13,362-square-foot property at 700 Picacho Lane features nine bedrooms, 14 bathrooms, two guest houses, a wellness center, and even a chicken coop.

The estate has a storied past: previously owned by Rob Lowe, it passed through the hands of Jack and Julie McGinley before landing with Levine and Prinsloo in 2022 for $52 million. Their short stay turned into a profitable flip, underscoring M

While Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s 2020 move to Montecito sparked global attention, local experts say the celebrity influx is just one piece of the puzzle. The town’s serene charm, privacy, and proximity to Los Angeles have made it a haven for stars like Oprah Winfrey and Gwyneth Paltrow.

New luxury listings and restaurant openings often resemble red carpet events, and the post-pandemic migration of high-net-worth individuals has only intensified demand. With fewer than 10,000 residents, Montecito punches far above its weight in prestige and price.

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While not all are confirmed closings, here are some notable names making waves in local real estate this year:

Katy Perry & Orlando Bloom

· The couple share a $22 million mansion in Montecito. With their split announced in 2025, there has been media speculation about who retains (or sells) the property. House Beautiful

· In early 2025, they began renting out their Montecito home post-breakup. People.com

Jennifer Aniston

· Aniston is building/completing a Montecito residence (or has acquired one) valued at about $15 million. Realtor

Broader Celebrity Presence

· Montecito continues to host many high-profile residents: Oprah Winfrey, Ariana Grande, Gwyneth Paltrow, Meghan Markle & Prince Harry, etc. 

· The area’s celebrity cachet is a key reason the real estate market there remains vibrant.