If you’ve ever dreamed of owning one of the farms for sale in Florida, Ocala might just be the place where those dreams come to life. There’s a reason this area is often called the “Horse Capital of the World,” and it’s not just because of the sheer number of horse farms.
Perfect Weather for Horses
One of the biggest perks of Ocala is its weather. The area enjoys a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. On average, you’re looking at temperatures in the mid-70s to low-80s during the day, which is perfect for horses.
This mild weather means your horses won’t face the harsh winters you’d find up north, and they’ll be comfortable year-round.
Also, Ocala gets about 53 inches of rain annually, which is well-distributed throughout the year, so you won’t have to worry about long, muddy seasons that can make horse care a bit of a challenge.
Ideal Terrain and Soil Conditions
Ocala’s land is a dream for anyone into horses. The terrain is mostly flat with gentle rolling hills. This makes for excellent riding conditions and helps keep your horses in top shape.
The soil here is generally sandy and well-drained, which means less mud and standing water after it rains.
Good drainage is crucial because it helps prevent hoof problems and keeps your pastures healthier. If you’ve ever dealt with waterlogged fields or muddy conditions, you’ll appreciate this aspect of the soil here.
A Thriving Equestrian Community
Here’s something that really sets Ocala apart: its equestrian community. The town is home to over 600 thoroughbred farms, and they aren’t just for show.
Ocala has earned its reputation as the “Horse Capital of the World,” with impressive stats to show for it. 45 national champions, 6 Kentucky Derby winners, and 20 Breeders’ Cup champions have all come from here.
Being part of such a community means you’re never far from fellow horse enthusiasts, trainers, and experts. There are local horse shows, competitions, and events almost year-round, so you can always stay involved and make new friends who share your passion.
Top-Notch Equine Services
Let’s talk about convenience. Ocala offers some of the best equine services you can find. The town has a number of top-notch veterinary clinics, farriers, and feed stores. For example, the Florida Equine Veterinary Hospital, a facility that is renowned for its cutting-edge care, is located right in Ocala.
If you’re into competitive riding, you’ll also find several world-class training facilities and arenas here in Ocala. Having all these services nearby means you won’t have to travel far to get your horses the best care and equipment.
Affordable Cost of Living
Living in Ocala offers a great quality of life. The town has a friendly, small-town feel with a strong sense of community, yet it’s close enough to larger cities like Gainesville for convenience. This means you get the best of both worlds: peace and tranquility without being too far from urban amenities.
Compared to other equestrian hubs like Wellington or Lexington, Ocala is relatively affordable. The cost of living here is lower, meaning you’re very likely to get the most value for your money.
You’ll find that property prices are quite reasonable considering their size and quality. This means you can buy a large property with better facilities without breaking the bank.
Plus, the overall cost of maintaining a horse farm here is generally lower, which helps with long-term budgeting.
Investment Potential
Horse properties in Ocala tend to retain their land value, thanks to the area’s reputation and demand. This makes it not only a great place to have a good time with your horses but also a solid investment for the future.
Whether you’re looking to buy a farm as a long-term home or as a business venture, Ocala offers a stable market that can provide good returns.