Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Ocala, FL
Considering a move to sunny Ocala, FL? With a welcoming population of 64,096, Ocala features affordable living—median home prices at $243,000 and average 2-bedroom rent around $1,225. Residents enjoy a short average commute of 21.9 minutes and 67% sunny days each year. While property crime rates are higher than the national average, the city offers a laid-back lifestyle, abundant outdoor recreation, and convenient access to healthcare and education. Ocala’s warm climate and budget-friendly housing make it a great choice for families and retirees looking for value and sunshine.
Demographics - Ocala, FL
Ocala is home to about 64,000 residents and features a diverse community, with nearly 60% identifying as White and over 22% as Black or African American. The median age is 38.6, reflecting a balanced mix of young professionals, families, and retirees. Around 13.5% of residents speak a language other than English at home, adding to the city's multicultural atmosphere.
Population:
64,096
Density:
1,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
38.6
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
59.8%
Black:
22.8%
Asian:
2.5%
Others:
14.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Ocala, FL?
Ocala offers a cost of living well below the national average, with a median home value of $243,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,225. Utilities and groceries remain affordable, and Florida’s 0% state income tax helps residents stretch their budgets further. These factors make Ocala an attractive option for those seeking value without sacrificing amenities.
Median House Value:
$243,000
Gross Rent:
$1,225
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$145
Auto Insurance:
$2,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,570
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$515
State Taxes:
Low:
0%
|
High:
0%
Cost Of Living Index:
87.3
Grocery:
96.0
Housing:
71.5
Utilities:
99.5
Transportation:
95.3
Health Care:
97.8
Miscellaneous:
93.4
Crime
Is Ocala, FL a safe place to live?
While Ocala maintains a laid-back lifestyle, its property and violent crime rates are higher than the national average, with a 1 in 34 chance of property crime and a 1 in 218 chance of violent crime. Residents are encouraged to stay aware, but many neighborhoods remain safe and family-friendly. Community initiatives and local law enforcement work to promote safety throughout the city.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
458
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,950
Crime Index:
3,408
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 218
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 34
Weather
What is the weather like in Ocala, FL year-round?
Ocala enjoys a warm, subtropical climate with mild winters averaging 45–71°F and hot summers reaching up to 92°F. The city receives about 52 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 67% sunny days, perfect for year-round outdoor activities. The pleasant weather is a major draw for those seeking sunshine and an active lifestyle.
Winter
Min:
45°F
Max:
71°F
Spring
Min:
55°F
Max:
82°F
Summer
Min:
72°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
58°F
Max:
84°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
52.3 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
67%
Neighbors
Residents of Ocala experience a median household income of $47,900 and an average commute of just under 22 minutes. While the area has an 18% poverty rate, most neighbors have at least a high school diploma, and the community is known for its welcoming, small-town feel. Public transportation usage is low, indicating a preference for personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$28,500
Household Income:
$47,900
Family Income:
$56,700
Per Capita Income:
$27,800
Income Male:
$32,100
Income Female:
$25,200
Poverty Rate:
18.0%
Non English Speakers:
13.5%
Rent:
$1,225
Unemployment Rate:
4.8%
Public Transport Usage:
0.7%
Commute Time:
21.9 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
85.2%
Bachelors or More:
19.6%
Education
How are the schools in Ocala, FL?
Ocala offers a range of education options, including well-regarded public schools such as Saddlewood Elementary and West Port High, as well as private institutions like Grace Christian School. The city is also home to the College of Central Florida, serving around 10,000 students. With a strong foundation in both K-12 and higher education, Ocala supports lifelong learning for all ages.
Public Schools
Name:
Saddlewood Elementary School
Street:
3700 SW 43rd Court
Phone:
352-291-4075
Students:
1,050
Student Teacher Ratio:
15.1
Name:
West Port High School
Street:
3733 SW 80th Ave
Phone:
352-291-4000
Students:
2,500
Student Teacher Ratio:
19.6
Private Schools
Name:
Grace Christian School
Street:
4410 SE 3rd Ave
Phone:
352-387-3090
Students:
370
Colleges
Name:
College of Central Florida
City:
Ocala
State:
FL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
10,000
Name:
Webster University (Ocala Campus)
City:
Ocala
State:
FL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
300
Healthcare
Ocala provides quality healthcare with two major hospitals offering emergency services and a physician availability close to the national average at 1.9 per 1,000 residents. About 83% of the population has health insurance coverage, ensuring access to essential medical care. The city’s healthcare index reflects reliable services for families and retirees alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
AdventHealth Ocala
Address:
1500 SW 1st Ave, Ocala, FL 34471
Phone:
(352) 351-7200
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
HCA Florida Ocala Hospital
Address:
1431 SW 1st Ave, Ocala, FL 34471
Phone:
(352) 401-1000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
82.7%
Health Care Index:
73.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Ocala, FL?
Ocala’s housing market is affordable and dynamic, with a median home price of $243,000 and a healthy 7.5% annual appreciation rate. Nearly half of residents own their homes, and rental vacancies remain moderate at 7.3%. The city’s real estate market appeals to both first-time buyers and investors looking for steady growth.
Median Home Price:
$243,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,225
Owner Occupied Rate:
49.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.3%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
7.5%
New Construction Rate:
2.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
DMV services in Ocala are handled by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, conveniently located on SE 25th Ave. Residents can access driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other motor vehicle services both in-person and online. For more information, the official website provides helpful resources and contact details.
State:
Florida
Department:
Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles
Address:
110 SE 25th Ave, Ocala, FL 34471
Phone:
850-617-2000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.