Ocala

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Ocala, FL

Area Guide

The Horse Capital of the World touts rich history and natural beauty

Historic Scenic Rural Suburban Convenient Affordable

Located in North Central Florida, Ocala is renowned as the "Horse Capital of the World," with hundreds of thoroughbred farms and training centers dotting its landscape. The rental market includes garden-style communities near the historic downtown district and newer developments close to the World Equestrian Center. One-bedroom units average $1,243 monthly, while two-bedroom homes typically lease for $1,551, reflecting a 4.5% year-over-year increase. The historic district, with its Victorian architecture along East Fort King Street, and the area near the College of Central Florida are among the city's most sought-after neighborhoods.

Residents enjoy easy access to outdoor recreation at the Ocala National Forest and Silver Springs State Park, home to famous glass-bottom boats and crystal-clear springs. Downtown Ocala centers around the historic Marion Theatre and the downtown square, offering shopping and dining options. The College of Central Florida campus adds to the area's appeal. With more than 230 sunny days annually, residents can take advantage of the city's parks and trails year-round. Ocala's history dates to 1849, and its "Brick City" nickname comes from the rebuilding efforts following an 1883 fire. The city hosts several equestrian events throughout the year, including the HITS competition, highlighting its significance in the international horse industry.

Rent Trends

As of December 2025, the average apartment rent in Ocala, FL is $801 for a studio, $1,244 for one bedroom, $1,529 for two bedrooms, and $1,793 for three bedrooms. Apartment rent in Ocala has decreased by -2.8% in the past year.

Property Type
Average Rent
Average Sq Ft
Apartment
$1,244/month
724 Sq Ft
House
$1,949/month
1,569 Sq Ft
Condo
$1,490/month
1,260 Sq Ft
Townhome
$1,659/month
1,390 Sq Ft
See Rental Market Trends in Ocala, FL

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Ocala, FL is 0.3% higher than the national average. Generally, housing in Ocala is 6.6% more expensive than the national average, with rent falling between $801 - $1,793. You can expect to pay 2.2% less for groceries, 10.1% less for utilities, and 4.8% less for transportation.

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Transportation

33

Car-Dependent

out of 100 WalkScore® Rating

This area is considered a car-dependent area and most errands will require a car.

13

Minimal Transit

out of 100 TransitScore® Rating

You'll likely want a car when living in this area since it has few transit options.

43

Somewhat Bikeable

out of 100 BikeScore® Rating

You might be able to find places to ride your bike in this area, but you’ll most likely want your car for most errands.

Schools

Dr N High Jones Elementary School

Public

Grades PK-5

807 Students

Eighth Street Elementary School

Public

Grades PK-5

405 Students

Ward-Highlands Elementary School

Public

Grades PK-5

959 Students

Maplewood Elementary School

Public

Grades PK-5

817 Students

Osceola Middle School

Public

Grades 6-8

999 Students

Liberty Middle School

Public

Grades 6-8

1,365 Students

Howard Middle School

Public

Grades 6-8

980 Students

Horizon Academy At Marion Oaks

Public

Grades 5-8

1,067 Students

Fort King Middle School

Public

Grades 6-8

1,092 Students

Forest High School

Public

Grades 9-12

2,325 Students

West Port High School

Public

Grades 9-12

2,906 Students

Vanguard High School

Public

Grades 9-12

1,661 Students

Lake Weir High School

Public

Grades 9-12

1,483 Students

Marion Technical Institute

Public

Grades PK & 8-12

162 Students

Points of Interest

Parks and Recreation

  • Silver Springs State Park
  • Cross Florida Greenway - 49th Ave. to Land Bridge
  • Indian Lake State Forest

Top Apartments in Ocala

Houses for Rent in Ocala

Property Management Companies in Ocala, FL

Living in Ocala

Transportation

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Ocala is primarily a driving city, but there is some bus service in its population centers from the SunTran bus system. However, owning a car is a breeze as there is always ample parking wherever you go. If you want to get away, Ocala International Airport offers a small number of regional flights, or you can head to the larger airports in Tampa and Orlando. The Amtrak railroad provides service to the city in the form of shuttle buses connecting passengers to its routes.

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Methodology

† Our analysis of utilities, groceries, transportation, healthcare, home prices, and other goods and services is sourced from the Cost of Living Index, a respected benchmark published by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) that provides a thorough overview of living expenses across different regions.

Rent data is provided by CoStar Group’s Market Trend reports. As the industry leader in commercial real estate information, analytics, and news, CoStar conducts extensive research to produce and maintain a comprehensive database of commercial real estate information. We combine this data with public record to provide the most up-to-date rental information available.

Consumer goods, services, and home prices are sourced from the Cost of Living Index published by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). The data on this page is updated quarterly. It was last published in November 2025.