RentData

Average Rent in Ocala, FL Rents rising 4.5% YoY

HUD FY2025 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 387,697

Data review: HUD FY2025Sources: HUD, Zillow, CensusMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Ocala, FL has rental prices ranging from $1,014/month to $1,825/month in 2025, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,094/month — 22% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $58,535/year, spending $1,094/month on a 1-bedroom represents 22% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Ocala Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,323/month, Ocala ranks #24 most expensive of the 54 cities tracked in Florida — pricier than 87% of all US cities in our data.

The Ocala Rental Market

The Ocala, FL area has a population of about 387,697 and 23% of households renting rather than owning. That renter share runs below the US average of ~34%, a more homeowner-heavy market where rental inventory can be limited.

Rent Trends

2-bedroom rents in Ocala, FL have risen by $57/month (4.5%) over the past year, from $1,266 to $1,323. This modest growth is consistent with broader inflationary trends seen across US rental markets.

Affordability

To afford a 1-bedroom apartment in Ocala, FL without exceeding the 30% housing cost guideline, a renter needs an annual income of approximately $43,760. The local median household income of $58,535 exceeds that threshold by $14,775, making Ocala relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Ocala, FL is $268,844, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 16.9. With a break-even horizon of approximately 17 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.

Fair Market Rents

HUD FY2025
Studio
$1,014
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$1,094
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$1,323
4.5% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$1,691
Average
4 Bedrooms
$1,825
Average
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Median Home Value
$268,844
Source: Zillow ZHVI
Est. monthly payment
$1,431/mo
20% down · 30yr · 7%

Is Ocala, FL Affordable?

Income needed to rent or buy, price history, and how this city compares to nearby metros.

Affordability Index(30% income rule)

To rent a 2BR
$52,920/year
Local median income: $58,535
To buy a median home
$57,236/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $1,323/month and 20% down on a $268,844 home at 7% rate.

Nearby Cities in FLlargest metros in the state

CityStudio1BR2BR3BRHome Value
West Palm Beach$1,639$1,830$2,187$2,856
Miami$1,711$1,898$2,329$3,008
Fort Lauderdale$1,768$1,929$2,388$3,297
Tampa$1,566$1,686$1,978$2,533
Orlando$1,636$1,727$1,958$2,486
Jacksonville$1,381$1,454$1,730$2,163

Rent or Buy in Ocala?

Break-even analysis and mortgage estimates based on local market data.

Should I Rent or Buy?

Break-even analysis using real Ocala data

$
Home Value
$268,844
2BR Rent
$1,323/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,431/mo
🏠 Buy

Buying breaks even after 1 year — worth it if you stay 1+ years.

Total monthly buy cost: $1,980/movs rent: $1,323/mo
Estimates only. Excludes HOA, PMI (if <20% down), closing costs, and tax benefits. Assumes 5% return on invested down payment.

Mortgage Calculator

Estimate monthly payment for $268,844 home at 7% rate

20% — $53,769
3%50%
Estimated Monthly Payment
$1,431
per month · 30 years · 7% APR
Loan Amount
$215,075
Total Paid
$515,124
Total Interest
$300,049
Estimated only. Excludes taxes, insurance, HOA. Rate from FRED.

Living in Ocala

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in Ocala

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⚖️Rent vs Buy in Ocala

Is it cheaper to rent or buy here?

💵Rent Affordability in Ocala

Salary needed to afford rent here

🗺️All Cities in FL

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📋FL Tenant Rights

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