Median Age
39 Years
Largest Age Group
30-39 Years
Approximately 14% of Residents
Under 20
25%
Over 65
19%
Avg Rent
$1,273
Population
65,964
Renter Mix
50% Rent
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.
The entrance to Silver Springs State Park.
Canoeing is a very popular activity on the fresh water springs at Silver Springs State Park.
Downtown Ocala is sprinkled with art throughout the neighborhood.
Take the little ones out for a day at Tuscawilla Playground in Downtown Ocala.
This interactive mural is one of the art installations in Downtown Ocala.
The World Equestrian Complex near Southeast Ocala hosts numerous events year round in Ocala.
Median Household Income
$51,442
Average: $76,226
Education
15,347
Residents Have a Degree
Job Market
28,007
Workers Employed
Median Age
39 Years
Largest Age Group
30-39 Years
Approximately 14% of Residents
Under 20
25%
Over 65
19%
Housing Distribution
In Ocala, there are roughly the same number of renters and homeowners.
Education Distribution
Review this city's overall education levels.
As of May 2026, the average apartment rent in Ocala, FL is $786 for a studio, $1,260 for one bedroom, $1,532 for two bedrooms, and $1,819 for three bedrooms. Apartment rent in Ocala has decreased by -3.4% in the past year.
The cost of living in Ocala, FL is 11.7% lower than the national average. Generally, housing in Ocala is 30.9% less expensive than the national average, with rent falling between $802 - $1,832. You can expect to pay 5.7% more for groceries, 3.7% less for utilities, and 6.8% less for transportation.
Compare Cities
Explore how walkable, bikeable, drivable, and transit-friendly Ocala, FL is for everyday living.
Fairly Walkable
Walkability
Minimal Public Transit
Transit
Very Drivable
Drivability
Somewhat Bikeable
Bikeability
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Horizon Academy At Marion Oaks
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† 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 February 2026.
Demographic information comes from Neustar and combines detailed address data with U.S. Census and American Community Survey statistics to produce reliable local estimates.