Meg Ryan’s Montecito Estate Reenters Market at Reduced Price
Actress Meg Ryan, known for her iconic roles in romantic comedies, has made headlines again with her real estate endeavors. After successfully selling her Santa Barbara home for an impressive profit in 2021, Ryan purchased a stunning estate in Montecito for $9.5 million. However, after listing the property for $22.5 million earlier this year without any buyers, it is now back on the market with a significantly lower asking price of $19.5 million. The listing is handled by Riskin Partners Estate Group at Village Properties.
Property Overview
Ryan acquired the notable two-acre estate from Alicia McFarlane, granddaughter of the legendary John Wayne, and her husband James. The McFarlanes purchased the property in 2020 for $5.4 million. Prior to that, it belonged to the late mystery author Sue Grafton and her spouse, Steve Humphrey. Originally constructed in 2010, the residence underwent extensive renovations during Ryan’s ownership, adding 3,000 square feet of living space along with a new ocean-view porch featuring a fireplace.
Features and Amenities
The Montecito compound includes three distinct structures that together feature seven bedrooms and six bathrooms across 8,400 square feet of living space. The primary residence measures 7,100 square feet and showcases elegant dark hardwood flooring, lime-washed walls, and arched doorways. The spaces are characterized by whitewashed wood-beam ceilings and boast a media room, a sleeping porch, and a spacious living area complete with a striking chandelier.
Interior Highlights
- Media room and fireside living room
- Dining area connected to a modern kitchen
- Kitchen equipped with top-tier appliances, a marble island, and a walk-in pantry
Adjacent to the main house is a guest suite over a three-car garage, measuring approximately 800 square feet, and a secluded cabin of 454 square feet, both tastefully designed with their own bedrooms and bathrooms.

Outdoor Space
With park-like grounds, the estate features beautifully landscaped gardens, a bubbling fountain, and numerous areas designed for outdoor lounging and entertaining. The primary retreat on the upper level includes a private balcony, a cozy sitting area by the fire, and a luxurious bathroom highlighted by a floating vanity and soaking tub.
Future Plans
In addition to the real estate changes in Montecito, Ryan has also expanded her property portfolio in the Hamptons, purchasing a traditional shingled home for approximately $13.5 million last fall. As she embarks on this new venture, fans are eager to see how she will transform her latest acquisition.
For more images of the breathtaking Picacho Lane residence, please follow the links provided.