Waterfront living without the high price tag in Rainbow Springs
The neighborhood of Rainbow Springs gets its name from the large state park and winding river located within it. While only a small portion of homes back up to the water, Jeanne Herzig-Arena, a Realtor with Professional Realty of Ocala who sells throughout Marion County, says the whole area has the remote feel of a waterfront community, and residents get the same laid-back vibe without paying the inflated prices of coastal homes. “I think that’s the main draw,” she says. “You get that waterfront feel without having to live on the coast.”
Diverse housing options from condos to riverfront estates
On the neighborhood’s east side, houses sit a bit close together yet still boast large front and back yards. Most have three or four bedrooms and were built after 1980. Ranch-style homes are most common for older homes, and new construction boasts New Traditional styles. Prices range from $230,000 to $650,000, with higher-priced homes featuring recent renovations. Large homes, often with four or more bedrooms, sit along the Rainbow River. They average around $1 million and have backyard water views. West of Highway 41, lot sizes are bigger. Home sizes and styles are like those on the east side and range from $220,000 to $580,000. Higher-priced homes often sit on acre lots and were built in the 2020s or are newly renovated. A small selection of two-bedroom condos is available on the neighborhood’s east side, ranging from $175,000 to about $200,000.
While the Rainbow River doesn't often flood, there is still a chance during severe weather. Homeowners can purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. Regarding crime, Rainbow Springs has a 1 out of 10 on the CAP Index, three points lower than the national average.
Golfing, hiking, and equestrian activities nearby
Rainbow Springs State Park is on the neighborhood’s east side and is a popular outdoor recreation spot for locals and out-of-towners alike. Swimming, tubing, canoeing, and kayaking are allowed in the springs. Its nature trails are popular with hikers, runners and birders. The neighborhood HOA has a private park for residents on the Rainbow River with barbecue grills and gazebos. Juliette Falls Golf Course is open to the public and is loved for its challenging and picturesque 18-hole layout. While the Rainbow Springs Golf Course closed in 2014, the club is still open and offers a restaurant and community pool.
Blue Run Park is about 5 miles from the neighborhood, and Herzig-Arena says the proximity is a big perk for many residents. “You can launch your boat or go for a walk. There’s a trail that connects to the Florida Greenway where you can do your biking,” she says. For those who ride horses, Ocala’s many equestrian stables and facilities, including the notable World Equestrian Center, are less than 20 miles away.
Kayaking down the Rainbow River, you are surrounded by gorgeous subtropical greenery.
Standing alone in the middle of the Rainbow River is a lone cypress tree, the perfect rest stop.
1/2
Groceries in the neighborhood, dining in Downtown Dunnellon
Winn-Dixie is located within the neighborhood and is a convenient place to pick up groceries. Publix, Walmart, services and chain restaurants line Highway 41 just outside of the neighborhood. Downtown Dunnellon, about 4 miles away, has galleries, boutiques, and a mix of restaurants. Herzig-Arena says a standout is locally owned Paige’s off East Pennsylvania Avenue. “It’s a great place to grab a burger and a homemade root beer,” she says.
Students have many options through Marion County Public Schools
The schools zoned to the neighborhood are Dunnellon Elementary, Dunnellon Middle, and Dunnellon High. All three schools have a B-minus rating on Niche. Dunnellon High offers multiple clubs and organizations, including Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Literary Club, and Future Business Leaders of America. Marion County Public Schools, which the schools are a part of, offers controlled open enrollment, allowing families to choose any school in the state that isn’t at capacity.
Dunnellon Elementary School is a public school serving grades PK, K-5 in Marion County.
Dunnellon Middle School provides education in the neighborhood of
Dunnellon and serves Rainbow Lakes Estates.
Students continue their education at Dunnellon High School in Marion County.
1/3
Nearby highways get residents where they need to go
Highway 41 leads to Downtown Dunnellon. State Road 40 runs along the neighborhood’s north side and connects to Interstate 75 and Ocala. Marion County Airport is right outside the neighborhood, but it is only for private planes. The closest major airport is Ocala International, about 20 miles away.
Photography Contributed By
David Hall
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jeanne Herzig-Arena,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Welcome to your own private sanctuary in the Rainbow Springs Woodlands — where 1.88 sprawling acres cradle a home that feels less like a residence and more like a retreat you never have to leave. The rotunda driveway announces itself first, leading you towards the home & an additional 2-car garage where you think - finally, there is room for all my toys! Bring the boat, the golf cart, the kayaks,
Sunshine, Open Views & Your Own Private Pool — Welcome Home to Fairway Estates! Say hello to this bright, beautifully kept 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom gem tucked into the beloved Rainbow Springs Country Club community! Perched on what was once the 16th hole of the Rainbow Springs golf course (now a gorgeous stretch of green common space), this home comes with front-row views and a whole lot of charm.
Tucked into the heart of Dunnellon's beloved Rainbow Springs Country Club Estates, this home invites you into a life woven around one of Florida's true natural treasures — the crystal-clear Rainbow River. Just minutes from Rainbow Springs State Park's spring-fed waters, waterfalls, and shaded hiking trails, and moments from the community's own river access with kayak and canoe launches, this is
Welcome to luxury waterfront living on the infamous Rainbow River. This stunning concrete block 2023-built residence offers 105 feet of pristine river frontage, complete with a seawall & existing boathouse, creating the perfect setting for boating, kayaking, and enjoying Florida’s natural beauty. Situated on 2.18 acres outside of a flood zone, this thoughtfully designed split-bedroom home
COUNTRY CHARM, ONE ACRE, POOL & ROOM FOR ALL THE TOYS! This inviting two-story home sits on just over an acre and offers 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, a 2-car garage and plenty of space inside and out. A large front porch welcomes you home and sets the tone for the relaxed country lifestyle this property has to offer.Step inside to a spacious, light-filled living room featuring beautiful wood
Welcome to one of the Rainbow River’s most desired locations, just north of KP Hole Park, where the water settles into that unmistakable turquoise the river was named for. Across the bank, preserved in perpetuity, protected state park land rises in a skyline of cypress, mirrored on the water’s surface — a view of beauty you’ll never tire of looking at. Full of love and appreciation for its
Rainbow Springs Country Club Home with oversized lot. This home is ready for entertaining...private access to Rainbow River and more! Living/ dining combo has sliding door to the lanai. This space is also perfect if you work from home. The kitchen is open to the family room with access to lanai. The kitchen has plenty of counter space, cabinets and a closet pantry. Whirlpool appliances,
Rainbow Springs The Woodlands-This home has a large corner lot and fenced backyard for your pets. The home has formal living-dining with access to the lanai & pool area. The Kitchen is open to the family room with a breakfast bar! Lots of cabinets and counter space to cook and entertain. The laundry room is adjacent to the kitchen. The two-car garage features a bonus room that can be used for
Welcome to 19535 SW 77th Loop in Grand Park North, where modern construction, thoughtful upgrades, and the natural beauty of Rainbow Springs come together. Built in 2024 by Lennar, this Tivoli model offers 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a 3-car garage, and an approximately 1/3-acre lot backing to community common area.Inside, you’ll find numerous custom upgrades throughout, including luxury vinyl
Experience classic Florida magic tucked along the legendary Rainbow River — and yes, you just might want to stay forever.Built in 1953, this warm and soulful riverfront home offers 2 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms in the main house, plus an additional bedroom and bathroom in the detached guesthouse. Cedar walls throughout give the home its signature cabin-cool, river-relaxed character — the kind
Welcome to your own private sanctuary in the Rainbow Springs Woodlands — where 1.88 sprawling acres cradle a home that feels less like a residence and more like a retreat you never have to leave. The rotunda driveway announces itself first, leading you towards the home & an additional 2-car garage where you think - finally, there is room for all my toys! Bring the boat, the golf cart, the kayaks,
When only the best will do! Custom-built with no expenses spared in 2021- this home was designed & constructed for discerning homeowners. Situated on 1+ acre in Rainbow Springs Woodlands with private access to Rainbow Springs - this impressive property offers a main residence with 3 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms + an office & incredible pool & outdoor living space; and a 66' x 40' insulated & air
Open & Bright Home Located in Rainbow Springs Country Club, Situated on Landscaped 0.31 of an Acre. Front Views are of Open Space, Mature Well Cared for Landscaping Offers Privacy. The 2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom Split Floor Plan Home Under Air is 1517sqft & 2072 W/Garage &Enclosed Lani That Open to Large Patio w/Decorative Pavers that Overlook the Serene Back Yard. Off of the Lani You Have Access
Build your dream home on this beautiful 1.01-acre lot in the desirable Rainbow Springs community. Surrounded by natural beauty and mature trees, this property offers the perfect blend of privacy and space while still being part of a well-maintained neighborhood. Enjoy access to community amenities including the Rainbow River access, private park, walking trails, and more. Conveniently located
Virtually Staged. Immaculately maintained home in the heart of Rainbow Springs! This charming 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home is beautifully situated on a just over 1 acre CORNER lot. The circular drive gives ample parking and convenient ingress and egress. Inside, the high ceilings and tall windows give tons of light. The oversized kitchen was just RENOVATED in 2025 with all new QUARTZ counters and
Experience refined resort-style living in the gated community of Juliette Falls! This impressive four-bedroom, two-bath residence offers expansive living spaces thoughtfully designed for comfort, entertaining, and everyday enjoyment. Surrounded by lush landscaping, scenic waterfalls, peaceful natural beauty, and an acclaimed golf course, Juliette Falls delivers an exceptional lifestyle with
Welcome to your own private sanctuary in the Rainbow Springs! This 3 bed/2 bath/2 car garage sitting on one acre of wilderness was just fully renovated and is ready for you to move in. Updates include, just to name the few: inside and outside paint, kitchen cabinets, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, tile floors in the kitchen, dining and great room area, laminate floors in the
Property Overview and Interior Design This single-family rental home provides an exceptional layout featuring four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a highly sought-after three-car attached garage. Inside, the property showcases high-end design elements including luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout the bedrooms, elegant decorative wainscoting, a custom accent wall, and a fresh coat of neutral
Virtually Staged. Welcome to Your Rainbow Springs Retreat! Beautifully furnished 2022-built home situated on 1.05 private wooded acres in the desirable Woodlands of Rainbow Springs. This charming Florida home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a 2-car garage, and an open-concept floor plan with a split-bedroom design, providing the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and functionality.The
Rainbow River Access — Fully Furnished & Move-In Ready!30-Day Minimum Rental | Flexible Lease OptionsEnjoy Florida living in this beautifully furnished 3BR/2BA home in Rainbow Springs Country Club, including exclusive access to the private Rainbow River park for swimming, kayaking, paddling, picnicking, and relaxing along the crystal-clear spring-fed river.This move-in
Welcome home to this well maintained 3 bedroom 2 bath ranch home in beautiful Rainbow Springs. This open floor plan has a split bedroom design, enclosed lanai, private back yard on a quiet street. The home is well cared for and professionally managed. Pets ok on a case by case basis, As a tenant, you have access to the rainbow river and Rainbow springs amenities at no cost to you. Call today for
4-bedroom, 3-bath home in Dunnellon's Grand Park North at Rainbow Springs offers a beautiful open-concept, split-floor plan. Features include granite counters, tile throughout (carpeted bedrooms), and a screened lanai. Enjoy a private, forest-backed lot with no rear neighbors, a well for irrigation, and screened lania. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, the community features a private deck for
Welcome to this beautiful 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home in the desirable Grand Park North community of Dunnellon! Thissingle-story home features an open-concept floor plan with modern finishes throughout. The kitchen boasts stainless steelappliances, a large prep island, standalone pantry, and custom countertops that open to the dining area. The split-bedroomlayout provides a private
Brand-new 3-bedroom, 2-bath home located in a gated golf community. This home features an open floor plan with tile throughout the main living areas and carpet in the bedrooms. The kitchen comes fully equipped with all appliances and opens to the living and dining areas. Enjoy a large covered lanai overlooking the spacious backyard, perfect for relaxing, entertaining, or enjoying Florida's
Exquisite 3 Bed/2.5 Bath "Rutenberg Design" home located in top-rated Golf Course Community, Juliette Falls. This home is one of a kind,located right on the pristine golf course with sweeping views of #11 fairway. This home also has a spacious open floor plan with a chef's kitchen & walk-in pantry. The sliding glass doors in the living room lead to a travertine, screened-in patio with a
Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Dunnellon, this 3/2/2 presents an exceptional opportunity for those seeking a tranquil residential haven. This charming property exudes warmth and character, offering a comfortable lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty. The interior spaces are thoughtfully designed, featuring cozy living areas and ample natural light that creates a welcoming ambiance.
Beautifully remodeled home, on nearly half an acre lot. This property is part of a wonderful neighborhood, Rainbow Springs Country Club Estates, with private river water access, and tranquil tree lined streets. The home features 2 spacious bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a large two-car garage. Includes brand-new stainless-steel appliances and thoughtful details that provide both style and
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
