Cortland, IL
Population 4,556 · Illinois
About Cortland, IL
Cortland is a small town located in Illinois with a population of 4,556 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $82,750 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.9 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Cortland features a median home value of $203,700, which is 17% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Cortland in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,420, 22% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,631 total housing units, 77% are owner-occupied (1,215 units) and 23% are renter-occupied (362 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Cortland shows an unemployment rate of 6.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 8.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Cortland have an average one-way commute time of 27.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
31.1% of Cortland residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 12.1% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 2.0% Black or African American, and 3.3% Asian residents, with 2.3% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Cortland, IL
Compared to national averages, Cortland has a median household income of $82,750 (10% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $203,700, which is 17% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,420 is 22% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Cortland's income is 10% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 23% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Cortland, IL?
Cortland offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $82,750, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $203,700, below the US average of $244,900, and a low poverty rate of 8.0%, better than the national average.
Cortland has a population of 4,556 with a median age of 31.9 years. Compare Cortland with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Cortland
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Creve Coeur | 4,572 | $49,853 | $86,500 | Compare |
| Stone Park | 4,504 | $75,165 | $218,300 | Compare |
| Fox River Grove | 4,501 | $125,104 | $289,200 | Compare |
| Watseka | 4,630 | $42,794 | $104,400 | Compare |
| Olympia Fields | 4,636 | $107,656 | $289,900 | Compare |
| Peotone | 4,462 | $104,792 | $261,400 | Compare |
| Fairfield | 4,658 | $41,026 | $91,800 | Compare |
| Tuscola | 4,675 | $77,034 | $148,100 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Illinois
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Cortland With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Cortland
What is the population of Cortland, IL?
The population of Cortland, IL is 4,556 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Cortland?
The median household income in Cortland, IL is $82,750 per year, which is 10% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Cortland?
The median home value in Cortland, IL is $203,700, which is 17% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Cortland?
The median monthly rent in Cortland, IL is $1,420, which is 22% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Cortland?
The unemployment rate in Cortland, IL is 6.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Cortland, IL a good place to live?
Cortland offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,556 and a median age of 31.9, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Cortland, IL?
31.1% of residents in Cortland aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Cortland?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Cortland, IL: median home value is $203,700 (17% below national), median rent is $1,420/month, and median household income is $82,750. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Cortland?
The poverty rate in Cortland, IL is 8.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Cortland, IL?
Cortland's population is 12.1% White, 1.2% Hispanic or Latino, 2.0% Black or African American, 3.3% Asian, and 9.1% two or more races. 2.3% of residents are foreign-born.