What BestPlaces Users Say about Ocala
Ocala, Florida is a small city located in the northern part of the state, known for its scenic landscapes and equestrian culture. With a population of just over 60,000, Ocala offers a slower pace of life compared to larger cities in Florida. However, living in Ocala does not come without its own set of pros and cons, as evident from the numerous user reviews on bestplaces.net. Many users have shared their experiences of living in Ocala, highlighting various aspects such as the cost of living, job opportunities, and community atmosphere.
According to JohnD, who has been living in Ocala for 5 years, the city has a "friendly and welcoming community" that makes it a great place to raise a family. He also mentions the affordable cost of living and the abundance of outdoor activities in the area. Another user, AmyW, echoes the sentiment, stating that Ocala has a "small town feel with big city amenities." She also praises the education system in Ocala, citing her children's positive experience in the local schools.
On the other hand, not all reviewers share a positive outlook on living in Ocala. SarahL, who has lived in the city for 10 years, expresses her disappointment with the lack of job opportunities and the slow pace of development. She writes, "There are not many job opportunities here, and the ones that are available pay very low wages. The city seems to be stuck in time, with no significant growth or development." Similarly, RonB has mixed feelings about Ocala, stating that while the cost of living is low, it comes at the expense of limited job opportunities and a lack of diversity in the community.
In conclusion, user reviews on living in Ocala, Florida provide a diverse range of opinions and experiences. While some appreciate the city's friendly community and affordable cost of living, others highlight the challenges of finding employment and the slow pace of development. Ultimately, living in Ocala may be a good fit for those seeking a quieter and more affordable lifestyle, but it may not be the ideal location for those looking for a fast-paced and diverse community.
based on 56 ReviewsGet to know Ocala with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited Ocala
Forget Ocala - 9/15/2013
This sleepy small town has the highest rate of unemployment of any city in Florida. There is an overflow of rednecks. There is no culture. Home prices are low because they are cheap. You children will go to school in trailers and the crime rate is among the worst in the nation.
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Ocala is a great place to live - 3/9/2013
I've lived in Ocala for most of my adult life. It is true that it is very hot here. It is also true that it is renamed slooow cala for a reason. If you like to live in a clean environment, then Ocala is right for you. If you want to raise a family, then Ocala is for you. Depending on your career choice, this could be a comfortable place to live. I live on eight acres & I love that I can see my neighbors but I can't hear my neighbors! Very laid back atmosphere here. If you want excitement, then take 2 hours a go to Orlando. People vacation & retire here for a reason! you don't here of anyone wanting to retire in Ohio! If you are outgoing, you will find lots to do here. Traffic is not bad, shopping is not bad. The cost of living is comparable to neighboring states. No state taxes here! Homes are reasonably priced. This is not a place for single people! So beware! I think Ocala is a great place to
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Ocala, Great place to live!! - 2/28/2013
After being in South Florida for over 20 years. Ocala has been a great decision for us. Housing is priced right & cost of living is great. No regrets for us as of yet. My wife teaches & I practice Respiratory Therapy.
Try it. Better yet join
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living in ocala - 12/22/2012
we moved here in oct of this year. bought a house...lot of house for the money, are on fixed incomes s.s., not fond of doctors, and find community is 25 yrs. behind. moved here from sarasota, fl. beautiful place but not sure it is for us. laid back is a understatement. of course we have no friends here and are lonely
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Living in Ocala Florida - 9/18/2012
Lets just say if you like horses, beautiful pastures and a rural community the you will love Ocala florida. It is located 40 south of Gainesville right on I 75 and has a pop. of the low 50,000's The downtown area is home town america. It is 70 miles due west of Daytona and 40 miles east of the gulf of mexico. St Augustine is NE of here about 90 minutes and is the oldest city in america. There are lots of activities especially if you love horses.I can't think of a better location to live in than Ocala Fl. The weather is wonderful year round. Winters are what midwesterners would call spring. If you are considering Florida then consider
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Life in Ocala - 10/10/2010
I was born and raised in the SE side of Ocala. I must say this is a very boring town for young people. Not much to do and most of the younger people are too broke to travel down to Orlando every weekend to have fun. The people are rude (most of them are from the Northern States) and good luck finding anyone who knows the meaning of customer service. I was an over-the-road trucker for over 2 years and I must say that Ocala is home of some of the WORST drivers in the country. I would have to suggest finding a different city to move to if you are under the age of 55. 55+ this is a great place to retire. Lots of golf and a decent nature park. I know Ocala is generally hotter than the other cities in Fl during the summer and can be the coldest in the winter. The unemployment rate is outrageous and this is a city where you are either poor, rich, or retired. There is not much in between. The property taxes are only once a year and on our .27 acre homestead it costs us anywhere from
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sunny florida - 4/7/2010
moved to florida for the warmth. had over 97 days of cold this year so far! need to go further
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You get what you pay for - 12/13/2009
Florida in general spends less on its citizens than nearly every other state. Florida's legislative leaders have proudly declared that Florida is either 49th or 50th (depending on which study you are citing) in state spending on its citizens. State employees have had no or very small salary increases in recent years. In Marion County, public safety has suffered. Sheriff's Office Deputies and civilian employees have had no pay increases in 3 years, and this has been compounded by requests from the County Commission to decrease the overall budget. Fire and EMS are also at risk and face budget cuts. Other services such as Building Inspection, Code Enforcement and Animal Control have also been cut due to budgetary constraints. Many major intersections in Marion County are populated by people claiming to be homeless and soliciting money from motorists. Law enforcement is unable to effectively deal with this problem largely because the County Commission is reluctant to pass a county
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Life in Ocala - 10/14/2009
We moved here 9 years ago, from NYC and I know without a doubt that it was the right move.
The quality of life here has indeed changed for us, We are able to enjoy more family times than we ever did in NYC.
We frequent many of the town festivals, carnivals, parades,(and we love them.)
we also have many good friends with very good family values.
Needless to say I was born a NYker but I live in Ocala and I must say I love it here.
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No fun in the sun - 8/21/2009
Ocala,Fl has been hit very hard by the reccession, I have lived here for four years now and have found the people very unfriendly and on edge, As far as customer service or local business deals go a good deal of the local population seems to be challenged, I have seen several large factory's close there doors and now the smaller Mom & Pop operations seem to be following suit, There are still plenty of fine restaurants and local attractions to keep you occupied though, Ocala seems to be like most of florida where the gated communities are very nice, Just do not go beyond the fence... You will really see the red and blue divide in Ocala, to sum it up cost of living soaring ,Crime rate rising, bussiness closing down, school budget shot, I personally believe I have been here about four years too
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