Ocala, FL : Florida


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Living a Cultural Center Lifestyle in Ocala, FL, Florida

Ocala Ocala has long been famous as horse country because of all of the many horse ranches in the area. The presence of lime in the soil is one reason for its popularity with horse lovers. The population is about 54,000 people with many more in the surrounding area. Originally a citrus growing region, horses are a big local industry. Ocala has grown quite rapidly because it is different and a bit more relaxed than either of Florida's coasts. East Fort King Street has many excellent examples of Victorian Revival architecture. There are a number of Ocala structures on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Union Train Station. Photo of Ocala commercial district courtesy of Wikipedia and Ebyabe.

Where to Retire in Ocala, FL and Home Prices

For those who prefer living in a development, there is a growing number of active adult communities in the Ocala area because there is more inexpensive land in this region.
Prices are more reasonable than in many other parts of Florida. The median price of a home was $280,000 in the 4th quarter of 2022, as reported by the NAR, and a 12% rise from a year earlier.

What Is Special about Ocala, FL

This is horse country - if you want to be near horses, you will be in heaven here in the "Horse Capital of the World". Ocala is a bit less crowded than south Florida. Silver Springs Nature Theme Park is located here, and many victorian homes and historic structures grace the Union Street area.

What Is Not Special about Ocala, FL

Ocala is in Florida's interior - if you have to live on the coast, it is not for you.

Climate and Physical Environment

The Silver River is the largest artesian spring formation in the world. Ocala National Forest is the 2nd largest national forest in Florida. Because of its interior location summers are hotter, the sun shines more days, and winters are cooler than the rest of Florida.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Appleton Museum of Art, and Garlits Museum of Drag Racing are located here. Gainesville and the University of Florida are less than 40 miles away.

Crime

The crime rate is well above the national average.

Medical Facilities

There are 2 medical centers in Ocala - Munroe Regional and Ocala Regional.

Transportation

Interstate 75 runs through Ocala. Ocala International Airport offers commercial service. Amtrak has a station. Ocala is not considered a walkable town.