524 movers in Ocala
What to know when moving to Ocala, FL
Ocala at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A city where 38.2% of residents are renters and the median household income is $49,592.
- The Major Draw:
- Enjoy the outdoors at Silver Springs State Park, rated 4.7 by over 12,800 users.
- The Reality Check:
- With a poverty rate of 13.5%, the cost of living may be a concern for some.
- Commute:
- Only 0.4% of residents use public transit, indicating a car-dependent lifestyle.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for a median rent of $1,124 per month.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Ocala is a city with a population of 21,521, where the community appears to be moderately educated, with 22.7% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The housing landscape shows that a sizable portion of the population, 38.2%, are renters, which may appeal to those looking for flexibility in their living arrangements. Coupled with a median home value of $171,500, this can create a dynamic housing market.
Probably not your spot if you are concerned about a higher poverty rate of 13.5% or the reliance on cars for commuting, as public transit use is very low.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median rent is $1,124, making it accessible compared to many urban areas.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $171,500, indicating a reasonable price point for homebuyers.
- 22.7% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, reflecting the educational landscape of the community.
- The poverty rate stands at 13.5%, which could impact local services and amenities.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Schools & Higher Ed
Ocala has access to several educational institutions, providing options for higher learning.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 4
- Institutions with College Scorecard data: 4
- Notable schools include: College of Central Florida and Marion Technical College.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Marion County experiences about 44.6 inches of rainfall annually, with 117 rainy days each year, so plan for some wet weather. The area does not see snow, making it a warm climate ideal for outdoor activities.
- Silver Springs State Park - 4.7 stars (12,831 reviews)
- The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park - 4.9 stars (7,877 reviews)
- Tuscawilla Park - 4.6 stars (3,205 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Marion County, the unemployment rate is 5.6% as of December 2025, with a labor force of 161,307.
- Unemployed individuals: 9,084
- Total employed: 152,223
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
