Ocala florida is it that bad? (Tampa, Orlando: low income, real estate, lease)

[Tecnica_swift]

We are looking at homes in and around Ocala but I have seen alot of post here about crime etc. and to stay away from Marion Oaks.

After reading these post it is making me think to look at other areas. Also is this directly why the Ocala symbol says "God Be With Us"?

[sunrico90]

Originally Posted by Tecnica_swift

We are looking at homes in and around Ocala but I have seen alot of post here about crime etc. and to stay away from Marion Oaks.

After reading these post it is making me think to look at other areas. Also is this directly why the Ocala symbol says "God Be With Us"?

Check our site for more info about Ocala..Ocala, Florida (FL) Detailed Profile - relocation, real estate, travel, jobs, hospitals, schools, crime, news, sex offenders

[Chet S.]

There are sketchy areas to the East. Jobs are tough and there is a lot of low income which brings some bad areas and crime with it. West of I-75 is more newer developments and away from most of the negatives. Not much to do there but if you are a retiree its probably a nice fit.

[bunnyv24]

It's like any other place. Good areas, not so good areas. If you are looking in Marion Oaks, I would suggest staying to the newer area on the northern side of 484. Most houses in this area were built starting in 2003 and on. I haven't heard of anything major going on in Ocala in general, let alone in Marion Oaks (although I'm sure petty crime happens like anywhere else). It really boils down to whether or not you can find a job. That, unfortunately, is no lie. Job market is not so good right now. I know the agent that rents our house said a lot of people are trying to get out of their lease due to losing their jobs (including us). Other than that, a lot- A LOT of old people. Seriously. If you have kids, they will probably hate you for moving somewhere that has nothing to offer a young person.

As far as the "God be with us", it is because most people here are pretty religious. From what I have heard, that tends to bleed over into the classroom. I don't know this personally as I don't have any children. If it were up to me I would put "God's waiting room" on the Ocala symbol.

But that's me.

My boyfriend and I moving because he lost the job we moved up here for and we are bored out of our minds here. Sarasota/Clearwater/Tampa area is pretty cool, depending on how much money you have to throw around. I personally never cared for Orlando. There is only one way to find out of course, which is coming down and seeing for yourself.

Anywhoo, good luck!

[floridabear]

I live a nice community just west of I-75. The majority of new development is happening on the west side. Marion Oaks is a massive area of plotted neighborhoods, some sections are ok but most are somewhat empty (one here next house 5 blocks away). Due to the isolation I have heard of many home invasions. There are plenty of new areas closer to everything, Hwy200, I75, malls, etc. Try Fore Ranch, Heathbrook, or the Sun Valley area if you want to a bit back from Hwy 200. I feel this side of 75 is safe. I do not worry about walking at night, etc. The crime ratings for Ocala are a bit high, There are some bad pockets near "downtown" that raise the rating.

[OneSweetWorld]

As previous posters pointed out Ocala has some shady areas but generally west of I-75 is pretty nice. A lot of new development coming in over the next few years along the west end of SR200. Crime in Florida seems a lot more random than anywhere else I've lived because people come here from all over the country...and world for that matter. Most riff-raff moves to warm location to live cheap...that's a factor. Just be smart and know how to protect yourself and Ocala is A O.K.

[Rayman421]

I haven't had any issues with crime here, but I've lived in D.C. as well as 10 other states and so to me, Ocala is a small town that is now dealing with growth issues (not so small anymore) and with growth comes more crime.

As previous poster said, be smart, and pay attention just like anywhere else. Most places you can tell if crime is higher, b/c the area will look more run down. Also some blue collar neighborhoods that everyone knows everyone - like living on dead end street - and if you are a stranger, you stick out. I certainly don't think Ocala has a high crime rate and compared to most cities the same size it probably has a lower rate of violent crimes. that is why they are so shocking - and make the news more - when they do happen.

I've lived here almost 12 years. I would not consider for moment NOT moving here b/c of crime rate. Poor schools - yes! I would never have my children go to public school in Florida!

[beer980]

We live in the west part of Silver Springs Shores and don't see much crime here. Maybe because we are close to 441 and the Sheriff Department's south office. Marion Oaks may not be too good with the prison they are trying to put in there. I have lived here since 1984 and crime has not been much of a problem. We will be relocating to Texas for my job whenever our house does sell so good luck on your move if you decide on Ocala.