Culture

Ocala/Marion County is a community rich in cultural and natural resources. The arts flourish through the Appleton Museum, 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.

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 70.5 °
Average Maximum in July 91.7 °
Average Minimum in December 47.2 °
Days with 90 ° or Higher 108.4
Days with 32 ° or Lower 10.5
Annual Precipitation (inches) 52.51”
Annual Snow Days 0
Earthquake Zone 0

Source: 2009 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. Both of Ocala’s premier hospitals, Munroe Regional Medical Center and Ocala Regional Medical Center, were nationally recognized by HCIA-Sachs as recipients of the 100 Top Hospitals Award for 2003 and 2004. 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 64
Dental Hygienists 180
Dental Radiographers 259
Dentists 113
Medical Doctors 515
Nurses, Practical 1,120
Nurses, Registered 3,365
Opticians 76
Optometrists 25
Osteopathic Physicians 45
Pharmacists 216
Podiatrists 16
Psychologists 40
Therapists, Massage 79
Therapists, Occupational 86
Therapists, Physical 159

Source: 2008 Florida Statistical Abstract

Religious Diversity

Faith Houses of Worship
African Methodist/Episcopal 7
Anglican 1
Apostolic 3
Assemblies of God 10
Baptist 116
Catholic 11
Christian 13
Christian Science 1
Church of Christ 8
Church of God 16
Episcopal 8
Islamic 1
Jehovah’s Witness 9
Latter Day Saints 5
Lutheran 20
Methodist 26
Nazarene 3
Non-Denominational 17
Orthodox 1
Pentecostal 25
Presbyterian 12
Scientology 1
Seventh Day Adventist 9
Synagogues 3
Wesleyan 1
Other 16

Source: Ocala/Marion County EDC

Child Care

Program Number of Facilities Capacity
Licensed Family
Child Care Homes
99 1,061
Registered Family
Child Care Homes
19 190
Licensed Child Care Centers 54 4,975
Religious Exempt
Child Care Centers
27 2,351
Head Start/Early Head Start 20 555
Voluntary Pre-K School Year Providers 71 1,694
Voluntary Pre-K Summer Providers 25 426

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: 2008 Florida Statistical Abstract  

Source: Early Learning Coalition of Marion County, Inc.