Ocala ( oh-KAL-ə) is a city in and the county seat of Marion County, Florida, United States. Located in North Florida, the city's population was 63,591 as of the 2020 census, making it the 43rd-most populated city in Florida. Ocala is the principal city of the Ocala metropolitan area, which had a population of 375,908 in 2020. Home to over 400 thoroughbred farms and training centers, Ocala is considered the "Horse Capital of the World". Notable attractions include the Ocala National Forest, Silver Springs State Park, Rainbow Springs State Park, the College of Central Florida, and the World Equestrian Center.