Cost of Living in Ocala, FL
Population 64,903 · Florida · Data vintage 2023
(100 = US avg)
Most of Ocala's cost indicators track within a reasonable band of national figures, with median household incomes near $53,520 — a more representative starting point for relocation math than the headline-expensive or headline-cheap cities on either tail. At 7.0%, the local unemployment rate runs well above the US figure, pointing to structural rather than cyclical labor-market issues.
Ocala is about 35 miles south of Gainesville, the nearest large metro — close enough that regional housing and labor patterns are shaped largely by the larger market. Housing prices track closely with Gainesville's $235,000 median.
Cost Overview
Scale: 100 = US national average. Green < 90, Red > 110.
About the Cost of Living in Ocala
The median home value in Ocala is $219,900 — 28% below the national median of $305,000. Median rent runs $1,230/month, 6% lower than the national median of $1,314/month. The median household income of $53,520/year is 28% lower than the US median of $74,580. The local unemployment rate is 7.0%, above the national average of 4.8%. Florida charges no state income tax, a meaningful advantage for take-home pay. Overall, Ocala has a cost of living index of 81 versus the US average of 100, meaning it is 19% less expensive.
🏠 Housing
HUD Fair Market Rents by Bedroom
💰 Estimated Monthly Budget
Estimates based on median data and national averages. Actual costs vary.
🛒 Food & Groceries
National BLS average prices (2023). Local prices may vary.
🚗 Transportation
Commute Mode
⚡ Utilities
📋 Taxes
💼 Income & Employment
🎓 Education
👥 Demographics
💨 Air Quality
EPA AQS 2023 — county-level monitoring data
🏫 Schools
NCES CCD 2019 — public school district data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Ocala, FL?
Ocala has a cost index of 81 (100 = national average). It is 19% below the national average.
What is average rent in Ocala, FL?
The median gross rent in Ocala is $1,230 per month based on 2023 Census data.
What is the average home price in Ocala?
The median home value in Ocala is $219,900 according to Zillow and Census data.
What is the median income in Ocala?
The median household income in Ocala is $53,520 per year (2023 ACS 5-year estimates).
What is the sales tax in Ocala, FL?
The combined state and local sales tax rate in Ocala is 7.0%. Florida has no state income tax.
Is Ocala, FL affordable?
Yes, Ocala is generally considered affordable, with a cost of living index of 81 — about 19% below the US national average of 100.
Ocala at a Glance
- Population
- 64,903
- Median Income
- $53,520
- Home Value
- $219,900
- Median Rent
- $1,230/mo
- Unemployment
- 7.0%
- Sales Tax
- 7.0%
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Explore county-level cost of living data
Florida Rankings
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