The best neighborhoods in Ocala, FL, showcase everything that makes the North Central part of the Sunshine State a great place to call home. You'll love living life here with gently rolling hills, stately oak trees covered in Spanish moss, highly-rated schools, friendly neighbors, and its own breed of Southern hospitality.
The best neighborhoods in Ocala, FL offer everything you need to live the good life. You’ll find historic charm, timeless elegance, equestrian culture, endless amenities, and much more in these little pockets of the city. Some of the best neighborhoods in Ocala include the Historic District, Fort King District, Golden Ocala, Laurel Run, On Top of the World, Fore Ranch, and Country Club of Ocala.
Each neighborhood in Ocala offers its own unique personality and amenities. No matter what you prioritize in a home, from historic allure to equine elegance, you’ll find it in Brick City. Let’s break down the best neighborhoods in Ocala, FL based on your interests and needs as a homebuyer.
Best Neighborhoods in Ocala for Equestrians
There’s no denying the equestrian community’s impact on Ocala. The presence of the internationally-known World Equestrian Center alone signifies just how important the love of horses is to the people of Ocala. This means that some of Ocala’s best neighborhoods are designed for those seeking an equestrian culture they won’t find anywhere else.
Golden Ocala
Looking for an elegant setting with modern amenities? Consider calling Golden Ocala home. This Northwest Ocala community features 10 distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique setting. Picture luxury homes lining a golf course with world-famous replica holes. Imagine yourself relaxing at the community’s full-service spa. Enjoy decadent dining at one of the on-site restaurants. No matter how you want to live the good life, you’ll find it at Golden Ocala.
Another great thing about Golden Ocala? The Equestrian Center. If you own a horse, the Equestrian Center at Golden Ocala provides everything you need to ensure your animal gets the care and exercise it needs to stay healthy. Options here include everything from barn rental to full boarding. And you’ll also find miles of trails to ride throughout the community’s lush, rolling hills.
Homes for sale in Golden Ocala start with 1,960 sq-feet luxury golf villas at The Residences and can go up to 6,000-square-feet mansions at Lakeside Estates.
World Equestrian Estates
World Equestrian Center is more than an internationally-known facility for horses and events. Discerning equine enthusiasts can own a piece of the action at World Equestrian Estates. These properties will sit adjacent to the World Equestrian Center and offer all of Golden Ocala’s luxury and amenities and much more.
Lots at World Equestrian Estates start at 3 acres, giving you room to spread out with your horse. Homes and barns may be built in a French country or elegant English styles. You can learn more about World Equestrian Estates through Royal Shell Real Estate.
Best Neighborhoods in Ocala for Families
Families moving to Ocala are often seeking two things: Great home values and great schools. Ocala’s Historic District and Fort King District offer both of these amenities. Some of the best neighborhoods in Ocala, FL are family-friendly and make a great place to enjoy childhood and beyond.
The Historic District
Ocala’s Historic District comes with a rich history. This downtown-adjacent neighborhood features many homes built between 1880 and 1930, giving this unique part of town its own air. Homes here range from Queen Anne Revival to classic American Bungalows and include everything in between.
But there’s more than history and style to Ocala’s Historic District. This family-friendly neighborhood is home to some of the best schools in the city. The neighborhood is served by public and private schools alike. Public schools serving the Historic District include 8th Street Elementary School, which ranks in the top 30% of all Florida public elementary schools. Many students who call this Ocala neighborhood home also attend private schools, including Ambleside School of Ocala and St. John Lutheran School.
Fort King District
You’ll find the Fort King District adjacent to Ocala’s Historic District. This neighborhood includes many of Ocala’s best public amenities. Ocala Golf Club is in the heart of the Fort King District. You’ll also find the only clay public tennis courts in town at the Fort King Tennis Center here. The Marion County Public Library headquarters is in the Fort King District as well, along with other parks, public and private schools, shopping, restaurants, and more.
Homes in the Fort King Distract range from charming midcentury ranches to lavish estates. With such variety, you’re sure to find the perfect home for your family in this diverse neighborhood.
Best Neighborhoods in Ocala for Young Professionals
Young professionals love Ocala. This bustling little city is known for being one of the fastest-growing places in the country. This means Ocala is home to great employment and networking opportunities for young professionals in all industries, from logistics to healthcare and beyond.
Downtown Ocala
Downtown Ocala has a thriving restaurant, bar, retail, and nightlife scene. Living downtown puts young professionals right on top of the action. Historic downtown homes give young professionals room to spread out, while apartments and condos downtown offer similar comforts with less maintenance.
You’ll find that Downtown Ocala is diverse. Along with homes and residences, you’ll also find a great foodie scene, top-rated salons, adorable gift shops, a weekly farmers market, and much more. Calling Downtown Ocala home puts you close to the action.
Fore Ranch
Located on the southwest side of Ocala, Fore Ranch is an up-and-coming community of townhomes and single-family homes that young professionals love calling home. Fore Ranch is right across from the Marketplace at Heathbrook, one of Ocala’s top retail destinations, and is also conveniently close to healthcare facilities and more.
Many of the subdivisions within Fore Ranch come with great amenities, like well-equipped gyms and HOA-maintained swimming pools. Additionally, Fore Ranch is convenient to Interstate-75, which makes popular destinations like Gainesville, Orlando, and Tampa just a short drive away.
Best Neighborhoods in Ocala for Retirees
The best neighborhoods in Ocala for retirees offer the best of both worlds. The equine-centric city provides both a slow, country life and a fast-paced urban environment, which means there’s both time to relax and time to enjoy an active lifestyle.
Laurel Run
This well-established community on the southeast side of Ocala is a perfect place to call home. With a mix of single-family and attached homes, the residents of Laurel Run are protected 24/7 by a manned gate. This sense of security, along with a great location, make Laurel Run an ideal place to retire.
Most of the homes in Laurel Run were built between 1982 and 1997 and all have been well maintained. The neighborhood has easy access to medical offices, shopping, and dining, and is just a quick drive from Downtown Ocala.
On Top of the World
If you’re looking for a neighborhood in Ocala that has it all, look to On Top of the World. This 55-plus community offers an endless array of amenities and activities. This award-winning community offers a number of unique features you won’t find anywhere else.
For example, lifelong learners who call On Top of the World home can take advantage of exclusive classes offered by Master the Possibilities. Hobbyists will love the community’s arts and crafts rooms, model railroad rooms, library, and more. The active set will love the 3 on-site golf courses, as well as tennis and pickleball courts, racketball facilities, and softball field. You’ll even find a field for flying RC plans at On Top of the World.
Best Neighborhoods in Ocala for Rent
If you aren’t ready to purchase a home in Ocala, you’ll still find lots of options. There are many opportunities for renters to find a great place to live. Some of the best neighborhoods in Ocala for renters include everything from luxury apartment complexes to wallet-friendly options.
Canterbury Circle
Canterbury Circle is one of Ocala’s newest apartment complexes for renters. The homes here range from one-bedroom to three-bedrooms to suit a variety of needs. Amenities here include a state-of-the-art gym on-site, a zero-entry pool, electric car charging stations, and a gated entry.
Deerwood Village
Deerwood Village is another popular option for Ocala renters. These apartments are well-maintained and in a prime location on the city’s southeast side. This pet-friendly apartment complex features amenities like an on-site dog park, fitness room, pool, and more.
Golden Ocala Real Estate Makes it Easy to Come Home
Are you ready to be a part of one of the best neighborhoods in Ocala, FL? Golden Ocala Real Estate makes it easy to find the perfect property for you. From luxury condos with room for just the two of you to expansive equestrian estates, you’ll find your dream home in Golden Ocala.
Enjoy an unmatched quality of life from your home in Golden Ocala. From world-class golf to decadent dining to endless opportunities for relaxation, Golden Ocala offers everything you need to make the most of your beautiful life. Reach out to a friendly Golden Ocala Real Estate agent and find your dream home today.