Quality of Life
Quality of life is a cornerstone in the foundation of a successful and thriving community. We all know there is more to life than business. Successful companies understand the importance of a positive community for the lifestyle of their employees away from the office. Team members who enjoy their down time away from work can bring renewed and energized perspectives to the workplace. It's great for business when it's great for life! Ocala and Marion County can meet those needs.
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Culture
Ocala/Marion County is a community rich in cultural and natural resources. The arts flourish through the Appleton Museum of Art, with its outstanding cultural exhibits, and the Ocala Civic Theatre with a wide array of award-winning dramatic and musical productions. Opportunities exist for music appreciation through the Ocala Symphony Orchestra and the Marion Civic Chorale. West Port High School serves as the Marion County Center for the Arts. In addition, the Marion Cultural Alliance is a community-sponsored agency that encourages art programs and appreciation of all cultural activities in the community.
Cost of Living
| Marion County Price Level Index Value of Major Items | |
| Weighted State Average = 100 | |
| Marion County | 90.51 |
| Rank - 37th of 67 Counties | |
| Population Weighted State Average = 100 | |
| Food | 99.98 |
| Healthcare | 96.29 |
| Housing | 81.52 |
| Transportation | 96.67 |
| Other Goods and Services | 96.84 |
Source: 2009 Florida Statistical Abstract
Recreation
Forget shoveling snow! The mild climate of Ocala/Marion County is ready to host your best round of golf. Both public and private golf, tennis and recreation facilities populate the picturesque countryside. The area is renowned for its natural beauty with many lakes, rivers, crystal clear springs and nature parks throughout the county. If the beach scene sounds enticing, either coast is within a scenic drive less than 60 miles away.
Climate Averages
| Average Annual Temperature | 72 ° |
| Average Maximum in July | 91.7 ° |
| Average Minimum in December | 47.2 ° |
| Days with 90 ° or Higher | 108.7 |
| Days with 32 ° or Lower | 10.5 |
| Annual Precipitation (inches) | 52.49” |
| Annual Snow Days | 0 |
| Earthquake Zone | 0 |
Source: 2010 SE Regional Climate Center
Healthcare
The reassuring factor of an outstanding medical community is available in Ocala and Marion County. The area attracts world-renowned physicians specializing in cardiology and stroke care. The caliber of physicians and medical support staff is exceptional. Three of Ocala’s premier hospitals, Munroe Regional Medical Center, and Ocala Health System which consists of Ocala Regional Medical Center and West Marion Community Hospital, have received nationally recognized awards. Additionally, Ocala’s close proximity to the University of Florida’s Shands Teaching Hospital, has given our community a wealth of expert health care providers.
Medical Professionals
| Chiropractors | 70 |
| Dental Hygienists | 189 |
| Dental Radiographers | 262 |
| Dentists | 116 |
| Medical Doctors | 524 |
| Nurses, Practical | 1,179 |
| Nurses, Registered | 3,341 |
| Opticians | 71 |
| Optometrists | 32 |
| Osteopathic Physicians | 41 |
| Pharmacists | 229 |
| Podiatrists | 16 |
| Psychologists | 39 |
| Therapists, Massage | 360 |
| Therapists, Occupational | 90 |
| Therapists, Physical | 165 |
Source: 2009 Florida Statistical Abstract
Religious Diversity
| Faith | Houses of Worship |
| African Methodist/Episcopal | 7 |
| Anglican | 2 |
| Apostolic | 3 |
| Assemblies of God | 9 |
| Baptist | 118 |
| Bible | 2 |
| Catholic | 12 |
| Christian | 13 |
| Church of Christ | 9 |
| Church of God | 19 |
| Community | 4 |
| Episcopal | 6 |
| Jehovah’s Witness | 11 |
| Lutheran | 17 |
| Methodist | 28 |
| Nazarene | 3 |
| Non-Denominational | 17 |
| Pentecostal | 24 |
| Presbyterian | 11 |
| Seventh Day Adventist | 8 |
| Synagogues | 3 |
| Other | 20 |
Source: Ocala/Marion County EDC
Child Care
| Program | Number of Facilities | Capacity |
| Licensed Family Child Care Homes | 95 | 988 |
| Registered Family Child Care Homes | 19 | 190 |
| Licensed Child Care Centers | 66 | 6,200 |
| Religious Exempt Child Care Centers | 23 | 2,840 |
| Head Start/Early Head Start | 20 | 555 |
| Voluntary Pre-K School Year Providers | 80 | 2,420 |
| Voluntary Pre-K Summer Providers | 27 | 752 |
Source: Early Learning Coalition of Marion County, Inc.