Cortland, NY
Population 17,465 · New York
About Cortland, NY
Cortland is a mid-sized city in New York with a population of 17,465 residents. The median household income is $55,368 per year, which is near the national average. The median age in Cortland is 27.2 years.
Housing in Cortland has a median home value of $143,800 and median monthly rent of $893. Of the 7,751 total housing units, renting is more common than owning, with 3,115 owner-occupied and 3,877 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Cortland is 7.2% and the poverty rate is 22.0%. 26.1% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 16.1 minutes.
Cost of Living in Cortland, NY
Compared to national averages, Cortland has a median household income of $55,368 (26% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $143,800, which is 41% below the national median. Monthly rent at $893 is 23% below the US average of $1,163. Within New York, Cortland's income is 43% below the state average of $96,987, and home values are 63% below the state median of $387,181.
Why Live in Cortland, NY?
Cortland offers affordable housing with a median home value of $143,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $893/month, and short commute times averaging just 16.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($55,368) 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 17,465 with a median age of 27.2 years. Compare Cortland with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in New York.
Similar Cities Near Cortland
Cities in New York with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bethpage | 17,334 | $132,832 | $597,400 | Compare |
| Port Washington | 17,613 | $183,964 | $976,200 | Compare |
| Islip | 17,224 | $122,596 | $486,900 | Compare |
| North Valley Stream | 17,756 | $145,204 | $588,800 | Compare |
| Hampton Bays | 17,138 | $129,080 | $688,900 | Compare |
| Oswego | 17,028 | $53,286 | $114,600 | Compare |
| Massapequa Park | 16,985 | $170,470 | $626,300 | Compare |
| Wantagh | 17,964 | $174,773 | $665,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in New York
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, NY?
The population of Cortland, NY is 17,465 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Cortland?
The median household income in Cortland, NY is $55,368 per year.
What is the median home value in Cortland?
The median home value in Cortland, NY is $143,800.
What is the average rent in Cortland?
The median monthly rent in Cortland, NY is $893.
What is the unemployment rate in Cortland?
The unemployment rate in Cortland, NY is 7.2%.