How to Change Ollama’s Model Directory with a Symlink

Ollama stores AI models in ~/.ollama by default, but if you want to use an external drive or a different location, you can change this with a symbolic link. This guide shows you how.

Step 1: Install Ollama

First, install Ollama by following the official instructions:

• Mac App: Just download the app and drag it into Applications: https://ollama.com/download

Alternatively you can install via homebrew: brew install ollama

Step 2: Remove the Existing .ollama Directory

Ollama stores its models in ~/.ollama. If you've already downloaded models, back them up before creating the symlink.

mv ~/.ollama ~/.ollama_backup

Step 3: Create a Symlink to Your New Location

Choose the location where you want Ollama to store models. If you have an external SSD or another directory, point the symlink there.

ln -s /Volumes/SSD/Ollama ~/.ollama

Step 4: Verify the Symlink

Check that ~/.ollama now points to your chosen directory:

ls -l ~/.ollama

If the output shows ~/.ollama -> /Volumes/SSD/Ollama, it's working.

Step 5: Test Ollama

Run a model to confirm it's downloading to the new location:

ollama run deepseek-r1:32b

Then check the model directory:

ls -l /Volumes/SSD/Ollama/models

If you see the downloaded model there, the setup is complete! Now, Ollama will store all models in your preferred location.