Cortland, NE
Population 629 · Nebraska
About Cortland, NE
Cortland is a small community located in Nebraska with a population of 629 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $68,250 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.5 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 $173,400, which is 29% 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 $950, 18% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 229 total housing units, 86% are owner-occupied (197 units) and 14% are renter-occupied (32 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Cortland shows an unemployment rate of 1.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 4.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Cortland have an average one-way commute time of 28.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
13.6% of Cortland residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 17.5% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 2.5% Asian residents, with 0.5% of the population being foreign-born.
How Cortland Ranks in Nebraska
Cost of Living in Cortland, NE
Compared to national averages, Cortland has a median household income of $68,250 (9% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $173,400, which is 29% below the national median. Monthly rent at $950 is 18% below the US average of $1,163. Within Nebraska, Cortland's income is 4% above the state average of $65,895, and home values are 38% above the state median of $125,824.
Why Live in Cortland, NE?
Cortland offers affordable housing with a median home value of $173,400, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $950/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 1.0%. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 4.9%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($68,250) that falls below the national average. However, Cortland’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Cortland has a population of 629 with a median age of 35.5 years. Compare Cortland with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Nebraska.
Similar Cities Near Cortland
Cities in Nebraska with a similar population size.
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Nebraska
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, NE?
The population of Cortland, NE is 629 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Nebraska.
What is the median household income in Cortland?
The median household income in Cortland, NE is $68,250 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Cortland?
The median home value in Cortland, NE is $173,400, which is 29% 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, NE is $950, which is 18% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Cortland?
The unemployment rate in Cortland, NE is 1.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Cortland, NE a good place to live?
Cortland offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 629 and a median age of 35.5, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Cortland, NE?
13.6% 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, NE: median home value is $173,400 (29% below national), median rent is $950/month, and median household income is $68,250. 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, NE is 4.9%, 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, NE?
Cortland's population is 17.5% White, 3.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 2.5% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 0.5% of residents are foreign-born.