RentData

Average Rent in Ocala, FL↑ Rents rising 1.5% YoY

HUD FY2027 · Official government data · Updated annually · Metro pop. 387,697

Data review: HUD FY2027Sources: HUD, Zillow, CensusMethodologyEditorial standardsReport a correction

Market Overview

Ocala, FL has rental prices ranging from $1,194/month to $1,925/month in 2027, depending on unit size. The typical 1-bedroom apartment rents for $1,201/month — 14% below the national average of $1,400/month. With a median household income of $58,535/year, spending $1,201/month on a 1-bedroom represents 25% of gross income — within the recommended 30% threshold.

How Ocala Compares

With an average 2-bedroom rent of $1,394/month, Ocala ranks #25 most expensive of the 56 cities tracked in Florida — pricier than 85% 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 $21/month (1.5%) over the past year, from $1,373 to $1,394. Rents have remained relatively stable year over year, indicating a balanced rental market in the area.

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 $48,040. The local median household income of $58,535 exceeds that threshold by $10,495, making Ocala relatively accessible compared to local wages.

Rent vs. Buy

The median home value in Ocala, FL is $263,895, giving a price-to-rent ratio of 15.8. With a break-even horizon of approximately 16 years, renting is likely the more financially prudent option for most residents unless they plan to stay long-term.

Fair Market Rents

HUD FY2027
Studio
$1,194
Affordable
1 Bedroom
$1,201
Affordable
2 Bedrooms
$1,394
↑1.5% YoY
Affordable
3 Bedrooms
$1,836
Average
4 Bedrooms
$1,925
Average
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▼
Median Home Value
$263,895
Source: Zillow ZHVI
Est. monthly payment
$1,405/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
$55,760/year
Local median income: $58,535
To buy a median home
$56,182/year
US national median: $75,000
💡 Based on a 2BR rent of $1,394/month and 20% down on a $263,895 home at 7% rate.

Nearby Cities in FLlargest metros in the state

CityStudio1BR2BR3BRHome Value
Fort Lauderdale$1,759$1,902$2,321$3,172—
West Palm Beach$1,907$2,008$2,349$3,052—
Miami$1,953$2,121$2,564$3,277—
Tampa$1,597$1,648$1,917$2,448—
Orlando$1,658$1,726$1,959$2,445—
Jacksonville$1,401$1,421$1,694$2,077—

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
$263,895
2BR Rent
$1,394/mo
Mortgage Rate
7%
Monthly P&I
$1,405/mo
🏠 Buy

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

Total monthly buy cost: $1,943/movs rent: $1,394/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 $263,895 home at 7% rate

20% — $52,779
3%50%
Estimated Monthly Payment
$1,405
per month · 30 years · 7% APR
Loan Amount
$211,116
Total Paid
$505,642
Total Interest
$294,526
Estimated only. Excludes taxes, insurance, HOA. Rate from FRED.

Living in Ocala

Cost of living, job market, crime rates, and moving cost estimates.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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🏘️Neighborhoods in Ocala

Compare rent & home prices by neighborhood

⚖️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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⚖️Compare Ocala

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📋FL Tenant Rights

Deposit limits, eviction laws & renters protections