In October of 2013, Uber launched in Santa Barbara allowing people to push a button and get a ride, opening the door for flexible earning opportunity for those who needed it. Today wait times average under 5 minutes and more than 60,000 people used the service in the last few months, so we hosted a Driver Appreciation Event to thank the driver partners who help move this city.

Nearly 100 driver partners attended the Partner Appreciation Event in Downtown Santa Barbara

At the event, we heard from nearly 100 driver partners about how Uber provides a new, flexible option to earn money and help support their families. From small business owners to UCSB students to a retired partner who is saving up to buy a home, Uber driver-partners clearly value the flexible schedule and the opportunity to improve transportation options in their community.

Patrick Sr. began driving after his son, Pat Jr. told him how much he loves the earning flexibility with Uber. This father son duo love driving because it allows them to work when and however long they want.

Santa Barbara is home to nearly 1,000 driver-partners who provide convenient and reliable rides. Thanks to our fantastic driver-partners, Uber has helped connect thousands of riders to their destinations in and around Santa Barbara, truly transforming the way this city moves.