As we enter this new year, the Ocala Metro has made a few national lists which are worth highlighting:
U-Haul
Every year, U-Haul unveils their Top 25 Cities for Growth. This list ranks cities based on one-way moves using U-Haul. While not entirely scientific, it is a great barometer of where people are moving. The Ocala Metro has made this list each of the last several years but this year ranks #2 following last year’s ranking as the top city where people are moving. This is important because of who moves using U-Haul – overwhelmingly, it is younger people. We know that 30-39 year olds in the Ocala Metro are growing at double the national average. This is a key demographic for workforce, home ownership, and families.
Housing
One of the best and most significant measures of the strength of the local economy is the housing market. 2023 was a record-year on several fronts. It marked the highest ever number of new single-family homes completed, and the 2nd highest number of permits issued. Additionally, it was the 2nd best year on record for the sale of existing homes. The Ocala Metro was one of only 3 Florida metros and one of only a handful nationwide that saw an increase in year-over-year sales of existing homes. Finally, 2023 saw the largest number of new Multi-Family developments to come online with the addition of approximately 2,000 units.
Talent
A company called Lightcast which provides detailed labor market analytics (and one which we at the CEP are subscribers) produces an annual Talent Attraction Scorecard. They score every US county on how well they attract talent, not just population. They break counties into two categories: those with more than 100,000 residents and those with fewer. Just over 600 counties fall in the large category including Marion County. Five years ago, we ranked #98; today, we rank #47. In particular, we are attracting more educated and skilled talent especially compared to our competitors.
Knowing that not only is the Ocala Metro one of the premier communities to relocate but one that has a fast-growing economy is key to the continued growth and development of our community. Ocala is a truly amazing place to live, work, and play and we are committed to maintaining our Forward Momentum!
