Ocala

Ocala, Florida – The Gateway to Central Florida’s Natural Beauty

Overview
Ocala, known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” is located in Marion County in Central Florida, about 85 miles northwest of Orlando and 50 miles east of Gainesville. With a population of roughly 60,000 in the city proper and over 375,000 in the greater Marion County area, Ocala blends the charm of a small city with access to larger metropolitan amenities. Its location makes it an ideal home base for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with rural and natural escapes nearby.

City Highlights & Lifestyle

  • Horse Country & Equestrian Lifestyle – Ocala is home to thousands of thoroughbred horses, world-class training farms, and a strong equestrian culture. It hosts numerous horse shows, competitions, and events, making it a top destination for horse lovers.

  • World Equestrian Center – Opened in 2020, the World Equestrian Center Ocala is the largest equestrian facility in the United States. It features state-of-the-art arenas, show grounds, and training facilities for all disciplines of equestrian sports. WEC hosts national and international competitions, attracting riders, owners, and spectators from across the globe. Beyond horse events, WEC also offers restaurants, shopping, and event spaces, contributing to Ocala’s economy and lifestyle appeal.

  • Historic Downtown Ocala – A walkable area filled with boutique shops, local restaurants, coffee houses, art galleries, and cultural events. Downtown Ocala also hosts a farmers market, festivals, and live music events, making it a vibrant hub for residents.

  • Arts & Culture – The city is home to the Ocala Civic Theatre, Appleton Museum of Art, and local art festivals, offering cultural enrichment year-round.

  • Outdoor Recreation & Nature – Residents enjoy Silver Springs State Park, with kayaking, paddleboarding, and glass-bottom boat tours, as well as numerous local parks and nature preserves. Hiking, biking, and birdwatching are popular year-round activities.

  • Golf & Leisure – Ocala offers multiple public and private golf courses, including scenic courses with views of rolling hills and horse farms.

  • Shopping & Dining – Marion County provides everything from local artisan shops to national retailers, as well as a diverse food scene ranging from Southern comfort food to upscale dining experiences.

  • Healthcare & Education – Ocala is served by multiple hospitals and specialty clinics, and offers access to Marion County Public Schools, private schools, and nearby colleges such as College of Central Florida and Santa Fe College in Gainesville.

Neighborhoods & Communities
Ocala features a mix of suburban neighborhoods, gated communities, and rural estates, catering to different buyer types:

  • Calesa Township – A family-friendly, amenity-rich golf cart community with pools, fitness facilities, trails, and community events.

  • Bellechase – A gated, upscale subdivision offering larger homes on one-acre lots with access to quality builders.

  • On Top of the World – A 55+ active adult community with multiple golf courses, pools, restaurants, and recreational options.

  • Marion Oaks – Affordable, master-planned community with family-friendly amenities, parks, and pools.

  • Kingsland Country Estates – Suburban neighborhood offering mid-sized homes on a variety of lot sizes with nearby wildlife preserves.

Events & Activities

  • Equestrian Events – WEC and local farms host year-round competitions, shows, and equestrian exhibitions.

  • Downtown Festivals – Art shows, holiday celebrations, and food events throughout the year.

  • Outdoor Recreation – Nearby lakes, rivers, and springs provide year-round water activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming.

  • Sports & Community Leagues – Soccer, baseball, tennis, and other recreation leagues available for all ages.

Transportation & Accessibility

  • Major Roads: US-27, US-301, and I-75 provide convenient travel across Central Florida.

  • Airports: Ocala International Airport for private flights and Gainesville Regional or Orlando International Airport for commercial travel.

  • Public Transportation: Limited, but local buses and community shuttles are available.

Why People Move to Ocala
Ocala attracts a wide range of residents: families seeking affordable, suburban living with strong schools, retirees drawn by quiet neighborhoods and active adult communities, and professionals looking for a growing city with access to natural and cultural amenities. The combination of horse country charm, the World Equestrian Center, outdoor recreation, cultural activities, and affordable housing options makes Ocala a compelling choice for newcomers to Central Florida.