The American Horse Council Foundation conducts periodic surveys to collect data defining the economic impact of the horse industry in the United States. Marion County/Ocala Metro, Florida, has topped the numbers, earning its trademarked name, “The Horse Capital of the World®”.

The equine industry in Ocala, Florida, significantly impacts the local economy. According to a 2023 study by the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association (FTBOA), the equine industry in Marion County/Ocala Metro contributes $4.3 billion annually to the local economy, which is about 22% of the country’s gross domestic product.

The industry also supports 28,500 jobs, about one in five in Marion County, with 56% of those jobs related to thoroughbreds.

A network of equine services and specialists, including veterinarians, feed and tack retailers, blacksmiths, equine dentists, and major horse transportation companies, supports the area’s equine industry.

The area has many thoroughbred breeding and training facilities, with 431 thoroughbred farms in Marion County alone. The thoroughbred industry alone has more than $1.3 billion annual economic impact.

The equine industry’s ripple effect extends beyond the traditional sectors, influencing a broad spectrum of industries.

Here are some numbers

• 75,000 horses in Marion County
• $4.3 Billion Total Economic Impact
• Nearly 1 in 2 horses are Thoroughbreds
• 28,000 people employed in equine-related businesses. 1 in 5 jobs
• 210,000 acres used for horse-related purposes, 20% of Marion County
• 22% of the Marion county’s gross domestic product