North Central Florida

Gainesville, Lake City, Ocala

Ginger Broslat | 10/10/2011

Gators rule at University of Florida's Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, better known as "The Swamp." [Photo: UF Photography]

Quality of Life

Pretty as a picture: Long before the word "ecotourism" was coined, North Central Florida had already created a tourism industry for nature enthusiasts.

Victorian-style homes line Ocala's shady streets.
[Photo: Stephen Floethe]

Acres of picturesque rolling horse farms, lakes, rivers, trails and natural springs provide plenty of family-friendly recreational opportunities — diving, paddling, camping, biking, hiking and horseback riding. Arts and culture can be found here too in a full complement of annual festivals, community theatres and museums.

Notable Employers

Agriculture and Forestry

Buckeye Technologies Inc., Perry
PCS Phosphate, White Springs
Pilgrim's Pride, Live Oak
Suwannee Lumber Company, Cross City

Logistics and Distribution

Johnson & Johnson Fuel Delivery, Madison

Manufacturing

CCDA Waters, High Springs
DuPont Titanium Technologies, Starke
Lockheed Martin Ocala Operations, Ocala
Monterey Boats, Williston

Healthcare

Shands Hospital, Gainesville

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