For many active adults, living in a gated community isn’t about exclusivity—it’s about security. People want to feel safe, especially in their homes, and gated communities provide an extra layer of protection. It’s a modern housing trend that’s growing in popularity, and it’s especially prominent in 55+ communities.

Buyers looking for Ocala homes for sale in gated communities have a number of excellent options. We’re taking a closer look at some of the more popular gated neighborhoods in one of Central Florida’s most desirable cities.

On Top of the World

Below $100k - Low $400s

On Top of the World is a huge community, with 10,000 new and resale homes available as attached and single-family properties. This gated 55+ community takes its security seriously, and residents enjoy the fact that they rarely have to leave their neighborhood to get what they need.

With a Town Square that includes a coffee shop, deli, ice cream parlor, and cultural center, there’s always plenty to in this community. Other amenities include fitness centers, pools, pickleball, shuffleboard, and three golf courses. On Top of the World is one of the largest gated communities in Florida, and active adults enjoy its woodworking shop, restaurants, libraries, and softball field.

Villas, cottages, and single-family homes come in dozens of floor plans and models, making it easy for homebuyers who are looking for a particular layout or price range. Villas start at 1,092 square feet with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, and some homes in the Estate Series are as large as 2,888 square feet with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and an attached three-car garage.

JB Ranch

High $100s - Mid $200s

For something a little (or a lot) smaller in size and even newer, buyers might want to check out JB Ranch, a gated 55+ community in Ocala with only 346 properties. Residents can really get to know their neighbors and enjoy some of the amenities that are still under construction, such as the clubhouse, fitness center, and the multi-purpose room. There’s also a pool and patio as well as plenty of parks, open spaces, and trails for walking, biking, and jogging.

The community is only 10 minutes from the historic downtown district of Ocala, and it’s surrounded by horse farms and natural spaces. Ocala National Forest isn’t far, and it’s a great place to enjoy hiking, swimming in natural springs, and fishing.

Low-maintenance living in the security of a gated community is a huge selling point at JB Ranch. The new construction properties are appealing as well. Spacious single-family homes are available in four floor plans, ranging from 1,641 to 2,034 square feet. They have two or three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and attached two-car garages. There are large master suites with double walk-in closets and expanded kitchens in most models.

Stone Creek

Low $100s - Mid $500s

One of the most popular gated 55+ communities in Ocala is Stone Creek. Both new construction and resale properties are available as single-family homes and attached villas.

The Twin Villas are set up like duplexes, with 1,548 to 1,709 square feet, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a den. There’s also an attached two-car garage. The larger single-family homes are available in several floor plans in the following models: The Pinnacle Series, The Classic Series, The Garden Series, The Regal Series, and The Estate Series. These homes are between 1,133 and 2,634 square feet with one to four bedrooms.

An on-site activities director helps residents organize clubs, plan activities, and enjoy the wide range of amenities at Stone Creek. Reflection Bay is a sprawling social and recreational facility, with meeting rooms, tennis courts, pickleball courts, a softball field, and a fishing lake. The Elan Spa is a soothing place to relax and includes indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centers, and massage services. There’s also Stone Creek Golf Club, where residents can play the 18-hole course, practice at the driving range, or visit the pro shop.

Ocala Palms

Mid $100s - High $200s

Gated Ocala real estate doesn’t have to be pricey. At Ocala Palms, for example, buyers can find reasonably priced resale homes in a gated, active 55+ community that’s close to parks, art museums, restaurants, and shopping. The Ocala Palms Golf and Country Club is on-site with 18 holes of championship golf. There’s also a putting green, driving range, pro shop, and Bianca’s Cafe, which is a relaxing place to enjoy lunch or a drink after a round of golf.

Homes are available in five golf-themed models. Buyers can choose a smaller home in The Villa Series or The Fairway Series, or a larger property in The Eagle Series, Championship Series, or Masters Series. Homes range from 1,064 to 2,654 square feet and have two or three bedrooms and two or three bathrooms. Many properties also have dens and attached garages. Some homes come with a view of the golf course or the lake.

Trilogy® at Ocala Preserve

Low $200s - High $400s

One of the most desirable gated 55+ communities in Ocala is Trilogy® at Ocala Preserve, where buyers will find both new-construction homes on a golf course and resort-style amenities. Security for the entrance gate, street light upkeep, and general maintenance are all handled by an active HOA, leaving residents time to enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle.

Homes are built with energy-efficiency in mind, and buyers can choose one of 16 floor plans in five different models. They range from two to four bedrooms, have two or three bathrooms, and come with attached two-car garages.

In addition to the 24-hole golf course, residents enjoy a seven-acre lake, a day spa, restaurants, a culinary studio, and fitness centers. There’s also pickleball, tennis, and bocce ball. Some of the clubs and activities already represented in this community include the book club, camera club, and ping pong club. There are casino trips, cooking classes, and seasonal parties on the schedule year-round. Also, Trilogy is just a few minutes from Interstate 75, making for easy travel to other cities like Tampa, Gainesville, and Orlando.