Weirsdale, FL: A Guide to This Charming Marion County Community
This is a living in ocala news article published on 2026-02-10 covering local Marion County, Florida news. Weirsdale is a small, historic community in southern Marion County known for its lakeside beauty and proximity to The Villages. Here is what to know.
Weirsdale is a small, unincorporated community in southern Marion County, Florida, located approximately 25 miles south of Ocala near the shores of Lake Weir.
Where Is Weirsdale?
Weirsdale sits along County Road 25 in southern Marion County, nestled between Lake Weir to the east and rolling farmland to the west. The community is about 25 miles south of downtown Ocala and 10 miles north of The Villages.
History of Weirsdale
Weirsdale was established in the late 1800s during Florida's citrus boom. The community was named after the Weir family, early settlers in the area. For decades, Weirsdale was surrounded by productive orange groves. The devastating freezes of the 1980s wiped out most of the citrus industry, changing the landscape permanently.
What's in Weirsdale Today?
Today Weirsdale offers Lake Weir (one of Marion County's largest lakes for fishing, boating, and swimming), Stanton-Weirsdale Elementary School serving local families, proximity to Orange Springs (another historic Marion County settlement to the east), rural character with horse farms and cattle ranches, and easy access to shopping and entertainment in The Villages.
Living in Weirsdale
Weirsdale offers affordable housing compared to Ocala and The Villages, making it attractive for families and retirees seeking a quieter lifestyle. The community is about 30 minutes from downtown Ocala and 15 minutes from the Paddock Mall area.
For more about life in Marion County, check out our Living in Ocala guide and Neighborhood profiles.