Ocala is a city in north-central Florida, located in Marion County. With a population of approximately 60,000 people, it is one of the larger cities in the region. Ocala is known for its natural beauty, equestrian culture, and historic downtown area.

One of the major attractions in Ocala is the Ocala National Forest, which covers over 600 square miles and offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting. The forest also includes several natural springs, including Silver Springs and Alexander Springs, which are popular destinations for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Another important aspect of Ocala’s culture is its equestrian heritage. The city is known as the “Horse Capital of the World” and is home to many horse farms, as well as the Florida Horse Park and the Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company. Ocala also hosts several equestrian events throughout the year, including the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit and the Live Oak International carriage driving competition.

In addition to its natural and equestrian attractions, Ocala has a charming downtown area with historic buildings, boutiques, restaurants, and cultural institutions. The downtown square is a popular gathering spot, and the city hosts several events throughout the year, such as the Ocala Arts Festival, the Ocala Culinary Festival, and the Harvest Fest Music and Food Festival.

Overall, Ocala offers a unique blend of natural beauty, equestrian culture, and small-town charm that draws visitors from all over the world.

Population:

• Population (2022): 68,426
• Median age (2023): 38.6
• Residents under 18 (2023): 22.7%
• Residents over 65 (2023): 18.8%
• Population by sex (2023): Female – 49%, Male – 51%
• Homeowners and renters (2022): Homeowners – 48.6%, Renters – 51.4%
• Married population (2023): 48%
• Population change in the 10 year period of (2010-2020): Appx. 5% increase
• Poverty rate compared to the US national average (2022): 18% vs the average of 11.5%

Demographics (2022):

• White Non Hispanic – 57.7%
• Black Non Hispanic – 19.7%
• White Hispanic – 7%
• Multiracial Hispanic – 5%
• Asian – 3%
• Multiracial Non Hispanic – 3%

*Prices shown are based only on activity for the dates specified

Income:

• Median Household Income (2022): $50,618
• Per capita income (2022): $31,710

Tax:

• County Property Tax Rate: .99% of a property’s assessed fair market value (2022)
• Combined State and County Sales Tax Rate: 7.5% (2023)

Cost of Living:

• Average cost of living compared to the US national average (2023): Lower
• Cost of housing compared to the Florida average (2023): Lower
• Cost of food compared to the US national average (2023): 4% Lower
• Cost of healthcare compared to the US national average (2023): 2.4% Lower
• Cost of utilities compared to the US national average (2023): 14% Lower
• Cost of transportation compared to the US national average (2023): 4%

Political affiliation based on the 2024 election results ( Marion County ):

• Republican – 65.5%
• Democratic – 33.85%

Largest 3 employers: Munroe Regional Medical Center, Ocala Health System, E-One

School ratings: Marion County Public Schools – B rating (2021)

Coastal: No

Average low and high temperature: Low 15.4 degrees celsius, High 26.9 degrees celsius

Fun facts: Ocala is known as the “Horse Capital of the World” due to its thriving horse industry

Location and Amenities:

 

Highways:

• I-75: Approx. 5-10 miles away
• US-301: Approx. 5-10 miles away

International Airports:

• Orlando International Airport (MCO): Approx. 90-100 miles, 1.5 to 2 hours drive
• Tampa International Airport (TPA): Approx. 100-110 miles, 1.5 to 2 hours drive
• Jacksonville International Airport (JAX): Approx. 100-110 miles, 1.5 to 2 hours drive

Universities and Colleges:

• University of Florida (Gainesville): Approx. 40-50 miles, around 1 hour drive
• Central Florida Community College (Ocala): Within Ocala
  College of Central Florida (Ocala): Within Ocala

Hospitals:

• Ocala Regional Medical Center: Within Ocala
• West Marion Community Hospital: Within Ocala

Shopping Malls:

• Paddock Mall (Ocala): Within Ocala
• The Oaks Mall (Gainesville): Approx. 40-50 miles, around 1 hour drive

Major Cities:

• Gainesville, FL: Approx. 40-50 miles, around 1 hour drive
• Orlando, FL: Approx. 80-100 miles, 1.5 hour drive
• Tampa, FL: Approx. 90-110 miles, 1.5 to 2 hours drive
• Jacksonville, FL: Approx. 90-110 miles, 1.5 to 2 hours drive

Amenities/attractions:

• Silver Springs State Park, Ocala National Forest, Appleton Museum of Art, Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, Ocala Downtown Square, Santos Trailhead and Campground

Short Term Rental Regulations:

** All short term rental operations in Florida must obtain a business license from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation ( DBPR ) and a Florida Department of Revenue Certificate of Sales and Use. ** Short term rental regulations can be subject to change and should always be confirmed with city / towns or county departments.

Restrictions:

• Rental periods of less than 6 months are considered short term rental operations.
• Zoning restrictions apply

For information visit mariontax.com