About Ocala
Marion County Nestled in the heart of Central Florida with scenic landscapes; moss covered trees scattered across rolling hills & horse farms, with access to Silver Springs for diving, canoeing & family picnics. Ocala is centrally located in Florida making it possible to reach all of Florida's attractions within a 2 hours' drive. Marion County is just off I-75 and 1 hour north of Orlando. Ocala is best known for its National Forest, miles and miles of green field horse farms and its beautiful golf courses. Marion County is ranked in the top 20 for most populated county in Florida. Ocala is named #2 hottest real estate market in the country with a 23% increase in homes from June 2005 to June 2006. Marion County consists of more than 1 million acres of mostly rural land.
Ocala has experienced a massive increase in corporate growth with companies creating thousands of new jobs each year. Unemployment rate in less then 4%.

 

 Ocala Population:  

1980: 122,488
1990: 194,835
2005: 303,442
2015(P) 393,456
2030(P) 501,227

(P) Denotes Projected Population          

 

      

Marion County is a heavily targeted area for investment opportunity in Florida’s real estate market. Marion County has experienced explosive growth in a very short period of time and continues to grow at a rapid pace. Over 50% of Florida’s population is located within 150 miles of Ocala. The county’s population has increased by 14% in the last 5 years, exceeding the state ands national averages.

Marion County is an “A” rated school district. With 27 elementary schools and 16 secondary schools. There are 5 Colleges/Universities, 1 community college and 1 Technical School. 

 


Links

City of Ocala Home Page
Marion County Home Page
Ocala Chamber of Commerce Home Page
Central Florida Community College
Ocala National Forest Home Page
Ocala/Marion County Economic Development Council