Living & Working in Cortland
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
Median home price is $199,000 . Buying analysis suggests potential savings over renting for long-term residents.
Neighborhoods by Value & Commute
Downtown Cortland
URBANSouth Cortland
SUBURBANQuick Decision Guide
Major HVAC Employers
Top-Rated School Districts in Cortland, NY
- Homer Central School District: Consistently ranked among the best in the region, with Homer Senior High School receiving high marks for academics and extracurriculars. Source: Niche.
- the area City School District: Known for its strong programs and community involvement. Source: GreatSchools.
- Marathon Central School District: Recognized for its small class sizes and student support services.
Childcare Costs in Cortland, NY
- Daycare: Average monthly cost ranges from $800 to $1,200, depending on the facility and age group. The SUNY here Child Care Center is a licensed option with fees starting at $900/month for toddlers. Source: SUNY the area.
- Nanny: Rates average $15 to $20 per hour, translating to approximately $2,400 to $3,200/month for full-time care. Source: NY OCFS.
###
Work-Life Balance Culture
Cortland, NY, offers a balanced work-life culture, with a mix of professional opportunities and leisure activities. The city's smaller size (population ~18,000) contributes to a relaxed pace, though nearby universities like SUNY here add vibrancy. Many residents commute to Syracuse (45-minute drive) for work, but local employers prioritize flexible schedules.
Fitness Facilities
- Gyms:
- Planet Fitness: $10/month for basic membership, $22.99/month for Black Card. Located at 1129 Route 13.
- Cortland Fitness Center: Offers personal training and group classes, with memberships starting at $40/month. Address: 20 Groton Ave.
- Parks & Trails:
- Yaman Park: Features walking paths, picnic areas, and a playground. Free entry.
- Homer Village Green: A scenic spot for jogging and outdoor workouts.
- Tinker Falls Trail: A 1.5-mile hike with waterfalls, 15 miles from here.
Dining Costs
- Lunch: $8–$12 at casual spots like The Red Jug Pub (burgers, sandwiches).
- Dinner: $15–$25 at mid-range restaurants like The Hollywood Restaurant (Italian-American cuisine).
- Drinks: $4–$6 for beer, $8–$
Financial Facts for Cortland, NY
- State Income Tax Rate: New York State has a progressive income tax system. For 2023, rates range from 4% to 10.9% depending on income brackets. Cortland residents follow these state rates. For details, refer to the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance.
- Property Tax Average: The average property tax rate in Cortland County is approximately 2.5% of assessed home value, with rates varying by municipality. For specific town/county rates, see the here County Tax Rates page.
- Cost of Living Comparison: Cortland's cost of living is approximately 15% lower than nearby Ithaca, NY, according to regional cost-of-living calculators. For a detailed breakdown, visit Payscale's Cost of Living Calculator.
- Growing Industries Creating Jobs: Key industries driving job growth in Cortland include manufacturing (e.g., food processing and solar energy), healthcare, and education. A spice company's recent relocation to the area is expected to create over 300 jobs, supported by state incentives. For more, see the [here Business Development Corporation report](https://cortlandbusiness.com/sp