Dunnellon marks the confluence of the Withlacoochee and Rainbow rivers. The city of 2,000 lies deep in the verdant hammocks of Central Florida, about 20 miles off the coast and 25 miles from Ocala, one of the fastest-growing cities in the country. Mark St. Germain, a Realtor with LPT Realty, says folks make the drive to Ocala regularly for more extensive healthcare, dining and shopping options, but nothing is better than coming back home to two beautiful rivers and a quiet rural atmosphere. “I live on the river, and there’s some real peace in looking out on the water, seeing the world and the wildlife around you,” he says.
Dunnellon is a boon for outdoor recreation. Miles of trails wind through its dense forests. Rainbow Springs State Park is on the city’s north side. “I love all the opportunities on the water – kayaking, fishing, swimming,” St. Germain says. “And I love that it’s not too crowded here. It’s like old Florida.”
The main modes of getting in and out of Dunnellon are Highways 41 and 484, which intersect downtown. Nearby Highway 40 is a straight shot to Ocala. The closest commercial airport is Gainesville Regional Airport, which is 50 miles away.
The scenery is endless amongst the century years old oak trees in Dunnellon.
There are a variety of retail and dining options in Fellowship, Florida.
Relax and refresh at your home on the Withlacoochee River in Dunnellon.
Soak in the sun on a lazy kayak float along the Rainbow River.
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The Dunnellon Trail and Rainbow Springs State Park
St. Germain says traffic picks up in the summer when out-of-towners flock to area rivers and parks. The Dunnellon Trail runs about two miles along a Boomtown-era railroad and the Withlacoochee River on Dunnellon’s south side. The popular pathway bridges the 110-mile Cross Florida Greenway and the 47-mile Withlacoochee State Trail. Rainbow Springs State Park spans almost 1,500 acres along Dunnellon’s north side. The park is famous for its spring-fed pool, an attraction since the 1930s. The crystal blue water averages around 72 degrees year-round, and depth varies from 10 to 18 feet. Visitors enjoy glass-bottom boat rides, as well as snorkeling and swimming alongside turtles and stretches of seagrass. Another popular activity is paddling or tubing down the Rainbow River, surrounded by gorgeous subtropical greenery. The river is about 6 miles long and, much like the spring, is crystal clear and great for snorkeling. KP Hole Park is another river access point featuring a boat ramp. It's a popular banking spot for tubers and kayakers.
Residents enjoy miles of riding on the Withlacoochee Trails in Hernando.
Follow the hiking trails to amazing waterfalls at Rainbow Springs State Park.
Enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal clear water at Rainbow Springs State Park.
KP Hole Park features a boat ramp, kayak ramp, and perfect access to Rainbow River
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Boomtown Days and the Dunnellon Boomtown Historic District
The discovery of quality phosphate rock in Dunnellon's landscape put it on the map and earned it the everlasting moniker Boomtown. The small city was established in 1890, and mining pits were soon dug out around the Rainbow River. Dunnellon quickly became a transportation hub thanks to the mines, railroad and Withlacoochee River. However, the phosphate began to dry up in the 1920s, and – just as fast as it began – the city’s boom quieted. The city’s primary industry has since shifted to manufacturing, followed by transportation and warehousing. Today, Dunnellon celebrates its founding annually with Boomtown Days. The day-long festival fills the city center with delicious food, beautiful art and high spirits. Car shows, beauty pageants and concerts are among the main events.
Remnants of the bygone era can be found around the city’s downtown, officially known as the Dunnellon Historic Boomtown District. It’s home to around 70 historic buildings, several of which have been transformed into local shops, such as Grumbles House, an antique and garden store, and The Station Nutrition, a charming cafe. These local businesses – including community staples like the waterfront Swampy’s Bar and Grille – cluster around the district's quaint main strip on Highway 484. Walmart, Tractor Supply Co. and other big-box chains are north of downtown along U.S. Highway 41.
Beautiful Dunnellon nestled between the Withlacooche, and Rainbow Rivers.
The Grumble House is a memory of times past, it's a favorite antique shop in Dunnellon.
With plenty of retail shops, Dunnellon has everything you could need.
Dine amongst nature while at Swampy's Bar & Grill and watch fish swim by.
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Private docks, vintage cottages and leafy lots
The median price for a single-family home in Dunnellon is around $280,000, about $100,000 less than the national average. Midcentury ranch-style homes sit on midsized waterfront lots along the Withlacoochee and Rainbow Rivers. The Dunnellon Boomtown Historic District features vintage cottages and bungalows. Houses on the city’s outskirts sit on larger, leafier lots by vast expanses of farmland. New construction properties can be found in Dunnellon Oaks, a subdivision currently being built out with New Traditional properties.
Dunnellon is 20 miles off the coast, and most properties have a minimal flood risk. However, flood insurance is recommended – especially for waterfront properties – due to the unpredictable nature of hurricane season, ranging from June 1st to November 30th.
A modest contemporary style home in Dunnellon.
Wake up in the morning to see this amazing nature out your window and pinch yourself in Dunnellon.
The classic quaint downtown cottages are having a revival in Dunnellon, as new people come to town.
A large modern farmhouse style home sits on manicured lawn in Dunnellon.
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Dunnellon schools have small class sizes
Dunnellon is served by Marion County Public Schools, which earns a B from Niche. The district has three public schools in the city – Dunnellon Elementary, Dunnellon Middle and Dunnellon High – each graded B-minus. Because the community is small, students benefit from small class sizes. Of the three schools, Dunnellon Elementary has the smallest student-teacher ratio of 16-to-1. Dunnellon High, home of the Tigers, offers various sports ranging from weightlifting and football to cross country and volleyball. The high school also has dual enrollment courses and two magnet programs: the Advanced Studies Program and the Power Generation Academy.
Dunnellon Elementary School is a public school serving 560 students in grades PK, K-5.
The student population of Dunnellon Middle School is 678 and the school serves grades 6-8.
Dunnellon High School is a public school serving 1,186 students in grades 9-12.
Student love to play on the fields at Dunnellon High School.
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Written By
Micaela Willoughby
Photography Contributed By
David Hall
Video By
Alex Finneran
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Carolyn Clinefelter,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Dunnellon, FL sell after 85 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Dunnellon, FL over the last 12 months is $280,000, up 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
WHAT A BEAUTY !! Come take a look at this meticulously maintained, tastefully updated 3 bedroom MAGNOLIA on a corner lot! Well manicured exterior and a feeling of HOME when you walk in the front door!! This spacious floorplan is open, sunny and bright while still having the defined space of kitchen, dining and living areas. Gorgeous luxury vinyl plank flooring flows thru each room. (tile in bath
5.39-acre mini farm with 3-bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms and 3-car garage in one of the most sought-after areas of Rolling Hills, Dunnellon, FL. This almost new, 2,861 Sq Ft home, built in 2023, offers lots of privacy and is centrally located, 7 minutes away from Ocala and just 11 minutes away from Dunnellon's Rainbow Springs. Fenced in on 3 sides and beautified by an automated gate, that adds a
GRAB YOUR GOLF CLUBS AND TOOTHBRUSH, THIS TURN-KEY 2 BEDROOM, 2 BATH, 2 CAR GARAGE HOME IS COMFORTABLY FURNISHED AND READY FOR NEW OWNERS! (or can be sold empty). You will appreciate the luxury vinyl plank flooring that flows thru with no thresholds, the additional living space provided by the Florida room, and inviting outdoor area created by the spacious covered patio. ROOF 2018, HVAC 2005,
Welcome to this beautifully updated pool home located in the highly desirable RAINBOW SPRINGS Country Club Estates, offering PRIVATE ACCESS to the crystal-clear RAINBOW RIVER through the community’s exclusive river park. This 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom, 2-car garage home offers 1,653 sq ft of comfortable living space. Inside, you’ll find luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, a spacious and
Welcome to a beautifully reimagined retreat in the heart of the sought-after Rainbow Springs Country Club Woodlands community in Dunnellon, FL. This fully remodeled 4/3/2 POOL HOME is perfectly positioned on over an acre of lush Florida landscape and blends modern elegance with the serene charm of North Central Florida living. Inside, the home offers 2,387 square feet of thoughtfully updated
Welcome to the Florida lifestyle in Citrus Springs! This meticulously maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath, 2-car garage home—with GENERAC Generator—combines peace of mind, comfort and character, all on a corner lot! The 2025 roof, sprinkler system to keep your flowers and yard lush, gutters to prevent water-related damage to your home, alarm system for added security, and fully fenced backyard are all
Welcome to this immaculately maintained 1968 Florida Classic Gem. This 2 bed, 2 bath, 2 car garage home is beautifully situated on a peaceful and nature-filled .62-acre parcel in the community of Rainbow Lakes Estates. Nestled among mature trees and beautifully landscaped grounds, this property offers a serene setting that truly feels like a natural paradise, while remaining just minutes from
16.39 Acres of Untouched Florida Beauty - Endless Possibilities Await! Discover the perfect canvas for your dream estate or future development on this sprawling 16.39-acre parcel in the peaceful heart of Citrus County. Tucked away on a quiet street near Citrus Springs, this heavily wooded property offers privacy, natural beauty, and incredible potential. This rare piece of land is high and dry,
0.35 - Acre Wooded Lot - Come Build Your Dream Home! No HOA! Quiet wooded setting in the up and growing Citrus Springs area. Perfect opportunity to design your your custom home with freedom and flexibility. Within easy reach of local amenities, yet peaceful and serene. Start building your dream today! BONUS: The lot next door is also for sale, offering the potential for a larger property.
0.35- Acre Wooded Lot - Build now or Invest! No HOA! Serene wooded setting in growing Citrus Springs. Buy this lot alone or combine with the lot next door for a larger property or future investment. perfect opportunity to design your dream home.
Nearly 10 acres of untouched Florida beauty, high and dry, outside of a flood zone, and free from HOA restrictions. This 9.95-acre property offers the kind of privacy that’s getting harder to find. A mix of mature Cedar and Oak trees creates natural shade and character, while pockets of cleared land give you a head start on building or placing your home. The setting feels peaceful, with deer
Are you looking for a spacious home in a serene country setting? This beautiful property is situated on a one-acre lot with minimal neighboring homes, offering you privacy and tranquility. Enjoy the spacious living room and private office, along with a well-equipped kitchen with bar seating, a pantry, and a cozy breakfast nook. The expansive master bedroom includes a luxurious garden tub, walk-in
IMPORTANT: For all showing requests, use the Showing Time cart. Please do not call or text with showing requests, if possible. Important Showing Instructions and documents located under paperclip. Room sizes are estimates and are the buyer's responsibility. Home is on a Marion County Supra.
Do not miss this opportunity to own a spacious home on nearly half an acre in Dunnellon with no HOA! Discover the perfect blend of space, privacy, and Florida living with this beautiful 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home situated on a generous 0.44-acre lot in Dunnellon, FL — with NO HOA! Offering 1,546 square feet of living space, this home features a comfortable and functional layout ideal for both
Escape to your own slice of Old Florida charm with this one acre, affordable, and ready-to-build homesite in the peaceful community of Rainbow Lakes Estates! This parcel offers the perfect opportunity to create your dream retreat, investment property, or future homestead—all with no HOA, no CDD, and no time limit to build, giving you complete flexibility to design on your timeline. This parcel is
Large home with pool******LAKE ROUSSEAU AREA****Welcome to this large home with a pool, located in the vibrant city of Dunnellon, FL. This property boasts three spacious bedrooms and two full bathrooms, perfect for those who value comfort and convenience. The home is situated on a large lot, providing ample outdoor space for relaxation or entertaining. Inside, you'll find new appliances and a
Be the very first tol ive in this stunning brand-NEW Home, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bath designed for comfort and modern living. This beautifully carfted property offers spacious interiors filled with natural light and open concept layourt perfect for entertaining and thoughtfully designed bedrooms that provide both privacy and funcionality. Step outside to enjoy and exceptionallly large backyard- ideal
With over an acre of land, this is a Stunning, modern 3/2 block construction with a den/Office that could be used as a 4th Bedroom. The elegance in this home boosts over $15k in upgrades and is located in the beautiful Rolling Hills. Enter the home through the beautiful wide & Tall entry into the open living/dining space with an extra room/ den to the right. Stunning views from sliding glass
NO HOA, OVER 1 ACRE OF LAND, BRING YOUR TOYS AND HORSES!! NEWLY CONSTRUCTED HOME, Nestled in the serene surroundings of Rolling Hills, this spectacular 2025 home invites you with its dazzling charm and over an acre of prime land. Designed for those who crave elegance and functionality, this residence promises a lifestyle of comfort and convenience. Are you ready to explore your dream home?
NO HOA -- Move in READY. With over an acre of land, this is a Stunning, modern 3/2 block construction with a den/Office that could be used as a 4th Bedroom. Home is ready for your family and all your toys. Ride the ATV through the neighborhood, park the rv on your large 1.2 acre property. Located in Rolling Hills, close to Supermarkets, Restaurants , WEC, HITS, Rainbow River and more.**
Be the first to live in this brand-new construction rental home in Dunnellon. This newly built property offers modern finishes, a clean design, and the benefit of everything being unused and move-in ready. Inside, you’ll find a functional open layout with natural light, updated fixtures, and a comfortable flow designed for everyday living. As a new build, the home provides lower maintenance and a
Brand new construction, be the very first to live in this home! Enjoy peaceful lake views right from your backyard with easy access to walking trails around the water, perfect for morning strolls or unwinding at the end of the day. This move-in ready home features luxury plank vinyl flooring throughout the main living areas, tile in the bathrooms, and comfortable carpet in the bedrooms. The
5/3 Newly renovated on 3+ acres Dunnellon***** Discover this newly renovated 3-bedroom, 3-bath home on just over 3 acres in Dunnellon, FL. The large open-concept living area provides flexible space for daily living and entertaining, and the expansive screened-in lanai extends usable living outdoors. Interior updates include no carpet throughout for easy maintenance. The property features a fenced
*Limited-Time Offer: Get 1 Month Free Rent!* Apply and Get Approved By April 7, 2026 and save on moving costs with 1 month free! This beautifully designed 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in the heart of Dunnellon offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience. With its modern finishes, open-concept layout, and durable, easy-to-maintain features, this home is ideal for
this charming property offers the perfect blend of comfort and Florida living. Nestled in the peaceful community of Citrus Springs, this home sits on a spacious lot surrounded by natural beauty, providing both privacy and room to grow. The property features a welcoming layout with ample natural light, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere throughout. Whether you’re looking for a primary
The advertised rate of $7,904/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of April 14, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can be
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