Planning a move to Ocala with your horses, but not sure where to start? You want year-round riding, easy show access, and a property that fits your program without surprise costs. This guide walks you through Ocala’s main equestrian submarkets, the features that drive value, and a practical checklist to match facilities with your budget. Let’s dive in.
Why Ocala draws horse buyers
Ocala and Marion County are recognized as a major U.S. equestrian center. You will find thoroughbred farms, sport-horse venues, and a deep support network of vets, farriers, trainers, and feed and hay suppliers. This ecosystem makes relocating from out of state more seamless.
Mild winters keep training on track all year. Summer heat and humidity mean footing, shade, and irrigation matter more for comfort and safety. Sandy soils in much of the area drain well, which is ideal for turnouts and arenas. You will still want to plan for dust control and footing management during dry spells.
Several show and training hubs shape demand across neighborhoods and corridors. The World Equestrian Center and the Florida Horse Park draw regional and national competitors. Regional show series and other arena complexes also pull interest to specific areas. As schedules and facilities evolve, confirm current details directly with each venue.
Key submarkets around showgrounds
Show-adjacent (about 10-20 minutes)
If you ride or train often, living close to major showgrounds can be a clear advantage. Daily access to warm-up rings and show amenities is the draw. These listings often feature specialty barns and professional infrastructure. Expect premium per-acre pricing for turnkey facilities in these pockets.
Peri-urban communities (about 20-45 minutes)
These areas balance acreage, newer custom barns, and access to Ocala’s amenities. They suit buyers who want quality arenas and stalls without top-tier land prices. Travel times to shows remain reasonable. Many buyers find the best blend of cost and facility quality here.
Rural acreage zones (about 45 minutes or more)
If you want larger tracts at lower per-acre cost, this is where to look. You gain room for turnout, galloping lanes, or expansion. Factor in higher upfront costs to add or upgrade arenas, utilities, and barns. Travel time to shows and services will be longer.
Property types and acreage
Hobby or backyard equestrian (about 2-10 acres)
These properties are sized for one to three horses. You will see small barns or run-ins, and often a small outdoor arena or longe ring. They are popular with buyers relocating for lifestyle and manageable upkeep.
Sport-horse or competitive boarding (about 5-20 acres)
Facilities typically include 6 to 12 stalls, one indoor or covered arena, and outdoor schooling areas. Paddocks, a tack room, and wash racks are common. Proximity to showgrounds is a frequent priority.
Full-service boarding, training, or small breeding (about 20-80+ acres)
You will see multiple barns, covered grooming and wash areas, and larger indoor arenas, often 80 x 200 feet or more. Turnout fields, hay storage, and staff housing are typical. These properties are suited to organized operations with clients or on-site staff.
Commercial breeding and thoroughbred farms (about 50-300+ acres)
Expect mare and stallion barns, foaling stalls, and extensive paddocks with specialized fencing. Some have training tracks or gallops. Established farms with mature landscaping and tradition often carry added appeal.
What drives price in Ocala
- Stalls and barn quality. Stall count, stall size, ventilation, and construction type matter. Masonry or high-quality wood/metal with rubber matting and proper drainage adds value.
- Arena type and footing. Indoor and covered arenas, reliable lighting, and high-quality, well-drained footing are major price multipliers. Irrigation and dust control are important in summer.
- Fencing and security. Board fencing, vinyl, or mesh in good condition increases safety and appeal. Well-designed paddock divisions and secure perimeter fencing add cost.
- Usable land for turnout and training. Contiguous, well-draining pasture and safe galloping lanes are valuable. Raw acreage matters less than usable, horse-safe acreage.
- Water and utilities. Dedicated wells, irrigation systems, water storage, septic capacity, and reliable electrical service are significant. Some operations benefit from 3-phase power for equipment.
- Support buildings and systems. Tack rooms, hay and equipment storage, staff quarters, wash racks, and fly control systems all add utility. Turnkey infrastructure reduces near-term capital needs.
- Permits and allowed uses. Properties already permitted for boarding, breeding, or events remove permit risk and can enable immediate income.
- Proximity and condition. Shorter drives to major showgrounds often command premiums. Newer, code-compliant construction lowers surprise repairs and upgrades.
- Market seasonality and inventory. Turnkey equestrian properties can be scarce in peak seasons. Low inventory periods may push prices higher.
Zoning, tax, permits, and insurance
Zoning and land use rules in Marion County define what you can do on the property. Agricultural, residential, rural, or commercial equine designations affect permitted activities, such as boarding, training, or the number of animals. If the property is in a subdivision or an HOA, obtain the covenants, conditions, and restrictions. Some CC&Rs limit structures, fence styles, commercial use, or the number of animals.
Florida’s agricultural classification, often called greenbelt, can reduce property taxes when the land is used for qualifying agricultural purposes. Boarding, breeding, or hay production may qualify if you meet county criteria. Confirm requirements with the Marion County Property Appraiser and review Florida Department of Revenue guidance. Understand how to maintain the classification and any penalties for noncompliance.
Most barns, arena structures, and significant site work require permits. The exact requirements vary by structure size, whether an arena is roofed, and whether grading affects stormwater systems. Wells and septic systems need health department approvals and must match intended occupancy, including staff housing. If you plan new arenas or drainage improvements, additional permits may apply.
Ocala’s karst geology and springs make water quality and stormwater management important. Check county and state rules for runoff, setbacks from sensitive areas, and best practices for manure and hay storage. Irrigation needs can be significant during dry months, so verify well permits and water availability.
Florida has equine activity statutes that provide some liability protection for landowners and activity sponsors. Commercial operations still face exposure, especially with boarding or lessons. Consider a farmowner policy, commercial equine liability, equine mortality and medical coverage for valuable horses, and an umbrella policy if clients or boarders visit the property. Work with an insurance broker who understands equine risk and consult an attorney about business structure.
For due diligence, contact the Marion County Building and Zoning Department for zoning maps and permit guidance. The Marion County Property Appraiser can clarify agricultural classification rules. The UF/IFAS Extension in Marion County is a helpful resource for pasture management, forage choices, and soil testing.
Buyer checklist: align must-haves and budget
Step 1 — Define use and priorities
- List your horses, discipline, and how often you plan to show.
- Decide if you want to board, breed, or keep it private.
- Set a target drive time to key showgrounds and training venues.
- Rank must-haves versus nice-to-haves, such as a covered arena versus extra acreage.
Step 2 — Match facilities to discipline
- Dressage: a flat, well-drained 60 m x 20 m arena, ideally indoor or covered, plus turnout and warm-up space.
- Hunter or jumper: larger schooling arenas, often 80 x 200 feet or more, quality footing, and adequate warm-up space.
- Eventing: open acreage for conditioning and cross-country schooling, plus access to eventing centers.
- Thoroughbred or breeding: mare and stallion barns, foaling stalls, larger paddocks, and experienced service providers.
Step 3 — Quick feature checklist for showings
- Stalls: count, dimensions, materials, ventilation, drainage, and any foaling or wash stalls.
- Arenas: indoor, covered, or outdoor; dimensions, lighting, footing, drainage, and irrigation.
- Fencing: type, condition, and perimeter security.
- Water and utilities: well capacity, irrigation, septic sizing, and electrical service.
- Land: usable pasture acreage, slope, soil drainage, and barn-to-pasture layout.
- Support: tack rooms, hay and equipment storage, staff quarters or rental potential.
- Permits: current status for boarding or breeding, and any code issues.
- Access: drive times to major showgrounds and veterinary or referral hospitals.
Step 4 — Budgeting and tradeoffs
- If you need daily show access, prioritize proximity and a modest, high-quality arena and barn over larger acreage.
- If turnout and conditioning space matter most, expect a longer drive or higher operating costs.
- Include recurring expenses like fencing maintenance, arena re-footing, hay and bedding storage, mowing, labor, and insurance.
Step 5 — Due diligence before you offer
Schedule an equine-focused inspection of barns, arenas, fencing, electrical systems, well, and septic.
Order soil tests and evaluate space for future arenas or buildings.
Review permits, tax classification history, CC&Rs, easements, and any flood zone designations.
Speak with local vets, farriers, and trainers about the property and area.
Engage an equine property specialist and, if needed, an equine-savvy inspector.
Work with a specialist
Buying an equestrian property is different from buying a typical home. You need advice on operational suitability, not just curb appeal. A specialist can help you weigh arena footing versus acreage, confirm zoning and permits, and model ongoing costs.
If you are exploring Ocala’s market, connect with a network that blends local knowledge with global reach. Global Equestrian Advisors offers buyer representation, valuations, and consultative advisory for equine properties. You will work with advisors who understand barns, footing, and the daily realities of running a horse operation.
FAQs
How much acreage do I need in Ocala?
- For a few horses and a small arena, plan on about 2 to 10 acres. For sport-horse training or modest boarding, 10 to 40 or more is typical. Commercial breeding often starts at 50 acres. Prioritize usable pasture and flat, safe training space over raw acreage.
Is living near the World Equestrian Center worth the premium?
- If you compete or train often, the time savings and logistics can justify higher prices near major showgrounds. For casual riders, more acreage farther out may offer better value.
Can I start a boarding or breeding business right after closing?
- Only if zoning and permits allow and the well, septic, and power support your plan. Many properties need new permits or upgrades. Verify with county departments before you commit.
What hidden costs surprise new farm owners in Ocala?
- Arena construction and re-footing, fencing repairs, hay and bedding storage, insurance for commercial activity, and potential upgrades to wells, septic, or electrical are common line items.
How do I handle liability for lessons or boarders in Florida?
- Use a farmowner policy and commercial equine liability coverage, post required warnings, use waivers, and consult an attorney about the right business structure for your operation.