Discover the Active Lifestyle at On Top of The World in Ocala, Florida
Looking for a vibrant 55+ community that truly has it all? On Top of The World in Ocala, Florida might just be your perfect retirement destination. This established active adult community has been creating an exceptional lifestyle for residents for over four decades, and it's easy to see why it continues to attract retirees seeking an engaging, amenity-rich environment.
What sets On Top of The World apart isn't just its impressive amenities or beautiful Florida setting—it's the genuine sense of community and the thoughtful planning that ensures residents have everything they need within golf cart distance. From championship golf courses to world-class entertainment, this community offers a lifestyle that keeps residents active, engaged, and connected.
New Construction vs. Resale: Exceptional Opportunities Available
Currently, On Top of The World presents outstanding opportunities for both new construction and resale home buyers. According to community sales representatives, it's an particularly good time to buy new, with "moving ready" homes available that can close in just two to three weeks with cash, or within four to five months for homes still under construction.
Active Building Areas
The community continues to expand with new construction primarily focused in these areas:
- Candler Hills - Currently the main new construction zone with inventory homes by Balfour Homes
- Long Leaf Ridge - Additional new construction area within the central community
- Waveborn Landing - Recently completed neighborhood, now fully built out
- Indigo East - Another completed section of the community
The resale market offers variety and value, with current listings ranging from the mid-$400s to around $590,000, providing options for different budgets and preferences.
Golf Cart Living: The Heart of Community Life
One of On Top of The World's most appealing features is its golf cart-friendly design. Surprisingly, only about 15% of residents are actually golfers, yet the golf cart lifestyle is embraced community-wide. Many families become "one car and a golf cart" households because of the convenience and accessibility.
Everything Within Reach
Three convenient plazas provide all the essentials of daily life, accessible by golf cart:
- Post office and hardware store
- Publix grocery store for all your shopping needs
- Medical services including dental, vision, and hearing care
- Hair and nail salons
- Target (newly announced addition)
- Home Depot (coming soon)
World-Class Amenities and Continuous Improvements
At 43 years old, On Top of The World has perfected the art of community amenities. What's impressive is their commitment to continuous improvement—if residents need something, the community builds it.
Recreation and Fitness
The fitness and recreation offerings are extensive and tiered for different intensity levels:
- 23 pickleball courts with 8 recently covered courts
- Three existing golf courses with a fourth executive 9-hole course being added in Waveborn Landing
- A new fitness center currently under construction
- Softball facilities with active leagues
- Tiered fitness programs from gentle exercise to high-intensity "bikini body" workouts
Entertainment and Learning
The cultural center hosts impressive entertainment including:
- Major performers like Willie Nelson, Kevin Costner, Sheena Easton, and Air Supply
- Regular ABBA tribute performances
- Eagles and Journey tribute bands
- Live entertainment Thursday through Saturday nights
- Weekly farmers market every Thursday
The Lifelong Learning Center offers hundreds of classes covering everything from cooking and pottery to history, languages, and technology training—including "how to work your iPhone" classes.
Dining and Social Opportunities
Community dining options include the Whistling Duck restaurant, famous for what residents call "the best hamburger ever"—a double patty smash burger with perfectly melted cheese that has become a local legend.
Social activities abound, from cheerleading squads (yes, really!) to cookie exchanges, ensuring there's something for every interest and personality type.
Smart Financial Structure
On Top of The World requires a 20% down payment on home purchases, which serves an important purpose beyond financing. This requirement ensures that all homeowners have significant equity in their properties, protecting the community against foreclosures and maintaining property values—a smart approach that benefits all residents.
Natural Beauty and Thoughtful Landscaping
The community features a distinctive "northern landscape" feel with live oaks, pines, and magnolias creating a beautiful, mature setting. While palm trees are strategically placed on golf courses and common areas, the overall aesthetic is more varied and natural than typical Florida communities.
Ready to Experience On Top of The World?
With its perfect blend of active amenities, convenient services, strong community spirit, and ongoing improvements, On Top of The World in Ocala represents one of Florida's premier 55+ communities. Whether you're interested in new construction with modern features or resale homes with established character, this community offers exceptional value and lifestyle opportunities.
Ready to explore your options in On Top of The World and other outstanding 55+ communities? Visit Explore55Plus.com to discover detailed community profiles, current listings, and expert guidance to help you find your perfect active adult community. Our concierge service can connect you with local experts who know these communities inside and out, making your transition to active adult living seamless and enjoyable.