Discover Ocala: The Ideal Place to Build Your New Home
Ocala is a “big small town” in North Central Florida, between Gainesville and Orlando. It’s known as the Horse Capital of the World, and features a blend of natural beauty with modern conveniences. Ocala is located within Marion County, the fifth largest county in Florida at over 1,600 square miles. As the central population hub for Marion County, the city has a range of neighborhoods suited to different lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for equestrian estates, nearby outdoor recreation, or access to cultural attractions, Ocala has a perfect location.
Which Region of Ocala Is Right for You?
Ocala is generally divided by locals into four directional regions. Fort King Street separates the north and south and Pine Avenue (also known as U.S. 301 and U.S. 441) divides the east and west. Secure Built specializes in luxury custom home construction in communities throughout the greater Ocala area. We’ll also work with you to build a home on privately owned land anywhere in Marion County.
Northeast Ocala
The Northeast region is ideal for those who appreciate culture and entertainment. It’s home to Silver Springs, a historic natural attraction known for its glass-bottom boat tours. This area is also home to the Appleton Museum of Art, which features an impressive collection of internationally sourced historic and contemporary works. The Ocala Civic Theatre, next door to the Appleton Museum, has year-round performances, providing a hub for local arts and theater enthusiasts. Additionally, residents here can enjoy a variety of shopping and dining options, with boutique stores, local eateries, and cultural festivals in this area.
Northwest Ocala
Known for its equestrian lifestyle, the Northwest region features the world-renowned World Equestrian Center, a premier facility that attracts top-tier equestrian events and visitors from around the globe. The area is also home to Ocala Palms and Ocala National Golf Club, offering pristine courses and luxurious club amenities. This region is characterized by sprawling horse farms, exclusive country clubs and communities, and a dedication to the equestrian tradition. Additionally, the Northwest region includes the Greater Ocala Dog Club and Showgrounds, which frequently hosts canine sporting events and training sessions, making it a destination for canine enthusiasts and competitors.
Southeast Ocala
Southeast Ocala is primarily a residential area that extends through Silver Springs Shores. The region is home to Ocala’s historic district, featuring charming, well-preserved homes and tree-lined streets that exude old Florida charm. Families, especially those with young children, can enjoy the abundance of local parks, walking trails, sports fields, and recreational facilities. Nature lovers can explore the Ocala Greenway and Marshall Swamp Wildlife Management Area, vast conservation areas perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Additionally, Southeast Ocala is home to leading area medical facilities, including AdventHealth Ocala and HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, making it a well-rounded and convenient region for residents.
Southwest Ocala
The Southwest region is a hub for modern conveniences, close to the Ocala International Airport, and is where most of Ocala’s shopping is located. This area is home to Paddock Mall, numerous shopping centers, restaurants, and movie theaters. It’s also where the main College of Central Florida campus is located.
Families here will find plenty of recreational activities, including sports complexes, swimming facilities, and several golf courses. For those who enjoy the outdoors, the Southwest region also provides access to the Santos Trails and various wildlife management areas. This region has opportunities for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and nature observation as well. Whether you’re looking for entertainment, recreation, or convenience, Southwest Ocala has something for everyone.
Why Build a Home in Ocala?
Cost of Living
Ocala can provide a more affordable lifestyle compared to other parts of Florida. As of 2025, the cost of living in Ocala is 7% lower than the state average and 8% lower than the national average. This makes it an attractive choice for homebuyers looking for high value at a lower cost.
Real Estate Investment Potential
Ocala’s real estate market has seen remarkable growth in recent years. Home values have increased by 138% from 2014 to 2024, with an annual appreciation rate of 10.1%. This rate outpaces the national average by 61%!
This growth has led to significant equity gains for homeowners. In fact, the average Ocala homeowner gained $147,400 in home equity over the past seven years (as of 2024) thanks to price appreciation. The city’s 3-year appreciation rate as of early 2024 stands at 42.7%, compared to the U.S. average of 21.2%.
Job and Population Growth
Ocala is consistently recognized as a top metro area for job growth. Forbes included the Ocala Metro in its Top 10 Metros for Future Job Growth for five consecutive years. Industries such as transportation, manufacturing, health care, and professional services are thriving, contributing to steady population growth.
Safety and Community
Safety is a key factor for those relocating to Ocala. The city has a lower crime rate than the national average and has been recognized as one of the safest places to live in Florida. According to U.S. News & World Report, violent and property crime rates in Ocala are significantly lower than in other cities of similar size.
Ready to Build Your Dream Home in Ocala?
Secure Built specializes in crafting custom luxury homes that suit your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to build within one of Ocala’s premier neighborhoods or on your own land in Marion County, we’re here to bring your vision to life. If you’re not sure where you’d like to build just yet, we’ll put you in touch with a qualified real estate agent to help you find the perfect plot for your new home. Contact us today to start planning your dream home in Ocala!