Marion County is home to approximately 370,000 residents across its major cities and unincorporated communities. The county's economy is centered on equine industry, healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and retiree services, creating a diverse workforce with varying levels of access to employer-sponsored health insurance.
Marion County — Ocala — is the self-proclaimed "Horse Capital of the World," home to more thoroughbred horse farms than any other region outside Kentucky's Bluegrass. The equine industry (breeding, training, showing, and racing) supports thousands of jobs in and around Ocala. Beyond horses, Marion County has significant healthcare infrastructure (AdventHealth Ocala, HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, UF Health Shands Ocala), a growing manufacturing sector, and a large retiree population attracted by the county's affordability compared to coastal Florida.
With an estimated 15% uninsured rate, Marion County has thousands of residents who may qualify for $0/month or heavily subsidized ACA health insurance but haven't yet enrolled. The Affordable Care Act marketplace offers comprehensive coverage options through 2 competing carriers in the county.
Available ACA Carriers in Marion County (2026)
Two carriers serve Marion County. Florida Blue has strong network coverage through AdventHealth and HCA Florida Ocala Hospital.
- Florida Blue (BCBS)
- Ambetter from Sunshine Health
Each carrier offers plans across multiple metal tiers — Bronze, Silver, and Gold. Silver plans are typically the best value for subsidy-eligible Marion County residents due to Cost Sharing Reductions that only apply at the Silver tier.