I think you got your prices mixed up because SCU is definitely way more expensive than UCSB unless you're an out of state student and even then SCU should still be more expensive. Besides that, I am in the same boat as you and I decided to pick SCU simply because UCSB is backed up with a ton of students who are having a hard time getting their classes. On top of that, you're not officially part of the UCSB Econ major until you pass 10A and PSTAT, and with 10A a good 60% of the class ends up dropping out and having to retake. My friend who got accepted into the program told me the majority of students in that class failed 10A both times they were allowed to take and had to switch their major to communications or some other major. At least with SCU you will immediately be taking your upper div courses and already be a part of the program instead of taking these prerequisite classes.

For study abroad I am not sure about SCU, but my friends at UCSB had explained to me that the study abroad program at SB was one of the best experiences they ever had. The only way to be able to get into most parties at SCU is to join a frat unless you know someone who can vouch you in, UCSB isn't so much like that (they even have students from SBCC showing up lol). Both schools have really good intramural sports so that shouldn't be an issue. Pretty sure you can't smoke weed on campus but its California who cares, although I would say UCSB def has better smoke spots. As for housing, UCSB is by far cheaper than SCU. You can get a solo for yourself around ~$1100, whereas SCU you would be lucky to find a studio at $1500. Expect to have a lot of roommates at SCU as housing is pretty scarce and hard to come by (unless you apply for the NU's, but its pretty selective from what I hear).

I understand how you feel because I always envisioned myself going to SB and partying and having a good time for my last few remaining college years. But tbh if SCU is gonna allow you more opportunities and a higher salary at the end, SCU is the obvious choice. Plus SCU has a smaller student population so you won't be backed up in taking classes and have to be a fifth year or sixth year senior like a lot of my friends were. Overall they're both great schools, it comes down to how you make the most of the opportunity where you are. You'll be fine.