Ocala
cityOcala, Florida, nestled in North Central Florida, serves as the county seat of Marion County. As of 2020, the city's population was 63,591, making it the 43rd most populous city in Florida. The Ocala metropolitan area boasts a population of 375,908. Known as the "Horse Capital of the World," Ocala is surrounded by over 400 thoroughbred farms and training centers, contributing significantly to its unique character. Ocala's economy is diverse, with key sectors including healthcare, retail, education, manufacturing, and distribution. The city is experiencing economic growth, driven by business expansion, housing demand, and infrastructure investment. Major employers contribute to a stable job market, and the area is recognized for its strong equine industry. Ocala offers a blend of historical charm and modern development. Founded in 1849 around Fort King, the city has evolved from an agricultural center to a hub for tourism and various industries. Its proximity to natural attractions like Silver Springs and the Ocala National Forest enhances its quality of life, providing residents with ample outdoor recreation opportunities.
Ocala, Florida
- Classification
- City
- FIPS Code
- 12-50750
- Country
- United States
- County
- Marion County
- Region
- North Central Florida
- Elevation
- 104 ft
- Total Area
- 47.79 sq mi
- Land Area
- 47.26 sq mi
- Water Area
- 0.01 sq mi
- Latitude
- 29.1872
- Longitude
- -82.1401
- Climate
- Humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot, humid summers. Average annual temperature is 70°F (21°C).
- Notable Features
- Silver Springs · Ocala National Forest · Ocklawaha River
- Neighboring Areas
- Gainesville · Orlando
- Population (2020)
- 63,591
- Est. Population (2026)
- 73,434
- Median Age
- 39.2
- Median Income
- $56,376
- Poverty Rate
- 21.13%
- Owner-Occupied
- 52.1%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- The racial makeup of Ocala includes 61.36% White, 18.89% Black or African American, 4.03% Asian, and 3.49% other races. 17.8% of the population is Hispanic.
- Government Type
- Council-Manager
- Governing Body
- City Council
- Body Size
- 5 members
- School District
- Marion County Public Schools
- Municipal Services
- Police · Fire · Public Works · Parks & Recreation
- Unemployment Rate
- 5.6%
- Economic Profile
- Residential · Commercial · Equine Industry
- Employment Sectors
- Healthcare · Retail · Education · Manufacturing · Distribution
- Major Employers
- Munroe Regional Medical Center · Lockheed Martin · AT&T
- Schools
- 50
- Student-Teacher Ratio
- 16:1
- School Districts
- Marion County Public Schools
- Colleges & Universities
- College of Central Florida · Rasmussen University-Florida
- Transportation
- Interstate 75 · Ocala International Airport · Public Transportation
- Utilities
- Municipal Water · Ocala Electric Utility · Fiber/Broadband
- Major Facilities
- Hospitals · Ocala International Airport
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- Silver Springs State Park · Ocala National Forest · Rainbow Springs State Park
- Parks & Trails
- City Parks · Walking Trails · Scott Springs Park · Tuscawilla Art Park
- Founded
- 1849
- Incorporated
- 1885
- Named After
- Ocale, a Timucua village meaning "Big Hammock"
- Historical Significance
- Evolved from a military outpost and agricultural center to a significant commercial and tourist hub in North Central Florida.
- Key Events
- Fort King established in 1827 · County seat of Marion County in 1846 · Rebuilt with brick after the fire of 1883 · Farmers' Alliance held national convention in 1890