countyscore
38.9
County Score
Soil Quality 77.4Health 76.4Lawn Care 69.2

County Report Card

About Cortland County, New York

Struggling to Meet the National Median

Cortland County’s composite score of 38.9 falls significantly behind the national median of 50.0. This gap highlights challenges in maintaining overall livability compared to the rest of the country.

Trailing New York’s State Average

At 38.9, the county sits below the New York average of 47.0. Economic pressures and safety concerns contribute to this lower-than-average state ranking.

Reliable Health and School Systems

Despite overall scores, the county maintains a strong health score of 76.4 and a school score of 64.2. These dimensions provide a stable foundation for the county's families.

High Taxes and Safety Concerns

The tax score of 0.3 is one of the lowest in the region, with an effective tax rate of 2.646%. Safety is also a major concern, reflected in a low score of 15.4.

A Resilience Test for Local Families

Cortland is best for those with strong local ties who value good schools and healthcare. Newcomers should be prepared for the high tax burden and specific safety challenges in the area.

Score breakdown

Tax0.3Cost32.5Safety15.4Health76.4Schools64.2Income60.3Risk48.8Water51.4Weather54.7
🏛0.3
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠32.5
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼60.3
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡15.4
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤76.4
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓64.2
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡48.8
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧51.4
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤54.7
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨77.4
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱69.2
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Nearby counties

Tompkins County
New York
38.4
Chenango County
New York
46.5
Tioga County
New York
53.8
Broome County
New York
37.3
Onondaga County
New York
36.8
Madison County
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47.9
Cayuga County
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43.8
Seneca County
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45.3

Deep Dives

Cortland County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Cortland County

via TaxByCounty

Cortland has highest tax rate here

Cortland County's effective tax rate of 2.646% is the highest among these eight counties and roughly four times the national median effective rate of 0.71%. The median property tax bill of $4,184 substantially exceeds the national median of $2,690, reflecting both Cortland's elevated rate and homes valued above the national median.

Cortland's rate tops New York average

Cortland County's effective rate of 2.646% exceeds New York's state average of 2.046%, placing it among the higher-taxed counties statewide. Its median property tax of $4,184 falls below the state average of $4,709, suggesting Cortland residents face steep rates on more modestly valued properties.

Cortland charges most among peers

Cortland County's 2.646% rate is notably higher than neighboring Chenango (2.389%), Delaware (1.736%), and most others in this regional group. In absolute terms, Cortland's median tax of $4,184 is substantial, making it one of the costlier counties for property owners in central New York.

Cortland homeowners pay $4,184 tax

A homeowner with a median-valued property of $158,100 in Cortland County pays an estimated $4,184 in annual property taxes, or roughly $349 per month. Adding mortgage escrow increases the annual bill to approximately $4,539.

High rates make appeals worthwhile

Cortland County's elevated tax rate makes assessment accuracy especially important—even a small overvaluation compounds significantly. Contact your local assessor to request a reassessment if you suspect your home's value has been inflated; a successful appeal could recover thousands in tax savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Cortland County

via CostByCounty

Cortland delivers strong renter value

Cortland County's 16.2% rent-to-income ratio beats the national 28% threshold handily, with median rent at just $911 monthly. Despite household incomes of $67,527 running 10% below the national average, housing remains genuinely affordable.

Among New York's most affordable counties

Cortland's 16.2% rent-to-income ratio ranks in the state's more affordable tier, beating New York's 17.6% average despite median rents of $911. This reflects the county's success keeping housing costs in line with lower regional incomes.

Regional affordability leader

Cortland's $911 rent sits squarely between Chenango ($819) and Cortland's regional cohort, offering competitive pricing without sacrificing access to services. Median home values of $158,100 rank among the lowest in the upstate cluster.

Housing remains truly manageable

With incomes of $67,527, Cortland renters paying $911 monthly dedicate just 16.2% of income to rent—leaving 80%+ for other necessities. Homeowners face $1,084 monthly, representing 19.2% of income, placing ownership within reach for disciplined savers.

Affordable upstate living in Cortland

Cortland combines small-town character with solid affordability metrics, making it ideal for families prioritizing housing accessibility. If you're earning $65,000–$75,000, Cortland's 16.2% rent ratio represents exceptional value compared to most New York metros.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Cortland County

via IncomeByCounty

Cortland trails national income median

Cortland County's median household income of $67,527 falls 9.6% below the national median of $74,755, placing it slightly behind the typical American county. This modest gap reflects a rural upstate economy that generates steady but not exceptional household earnings.

Below average in New York State

Cortland's $67,527 median income sits $8,906 below New York's state average of $76,433, ranking it in the lower-middle tier of the state's 62 counties. The shortfall reflects limited access to major employers and metropolitan wage premiums.

Moderate incomes in rural upstate

Cortland's $67,527 sits between neighboring Chenango ($62,093) and Clinton ($69,208), placing it firmly in rural upstate's moderate-income band. The county's reliance on SUNY Cortland, healthcare, and light manufacturing keeps wages competitive within the region.

Affordable housing aids stretched budgets

With a rent-to-income ratio of 16.2% and a median home value of just $158,100, Cortland households spend conservatively on housing relative to earnings. This affordability helps median income stretch further than the raw number might suggest.

Build savings with steady employment

Cortland's $67,527 median income and low housing costs (16.2% of income) create room for consistent saving and investment. Start with an emergency fund covering three months of expenses, then shift surplus into a diversified IRA or brokerage account.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Cortland County

via CrimeByCounty

Cortland Mirrors National Crime Trends

Cortland County’s total crime rate of 2,357.0 per 100K is nearly identical to the national average of 2,385.5. This results in a safety score of 96.3, which is lower than many neighboring counties.

Below the New York Safety Average

Cortland struggles compared to the rest of the state, as its crime rate is double the New York average of 1,074.4. Its safety score of 96.3 falls below the state’s typical 98.3 benchmark.

Higher Crime Than Neighboring Counties

Cortland has a much higher crime rate than nearby Chenango County, which sits at just 1,142.4. Local law enforcement across 4 agencies handles a higher volume of cases relative to the population size.

High Concentration of Property Crimes

The vast majority of Cortland's crime is property-based, recorded at 2,177.3 per 100K residents. Violent crime is also higher than the state average, standing at 179.7 per 100K.

Priority Security for Cortland Residents

Given the elevated property crime rate, residents should invest in robust home security systems. Use doorbell cameras and alarm systems to deter theft and help local police protect your neighborhood.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Cortland County

via HealthByCounty

Cortland falls short of national averages

At 76.2 years, Cortland County residents live 0.2 years below the U.S. average of 76.4 years. About 16.3% report poor or fair health, a relatively favorable rate within this cohort.

Below state average but improving outlook

Cortland's 76.2-year life expectancy trails New York's state average of 77.9 years by 1.7 years. The county ranks in the lower-middle tier statewide, but its 16.3% poor/fair health rate shows potential.

Mixed results compared to surrounding areas

Cortland (76.2 years) outpaces Chenango County (74.9 years) but falls short of Delaware County (76.7 years). The county sits in the middle of upstate's health landscape.

Strong mental health support, moderate primary care

Cortland excels with 428 mental health providers per 100,000 residents—the highest among all eight counties—but offers only 37 primary care providers per 100,000. With 4.7% uninsured, most residents can access the mental health services available.

Leverage mental health resources with coverage

Cortland's exceptional mental health provider network is a major asset for residents with insurance. Verify your coverage at NY State of Health to access preventive care and mental health services.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Cortland County

via SchoolsByCounty

Town and Country Education Infrastructure

Cortland County hosts 17 public schools within six districts, serving a student population of 5,581. The system includes eight elementary schools and five high schools, catering to a balanced mix of town and rural residents. This infrastructure supports a diverse range of learners across the central New York region.

Competitive Performance and Consistent Funding

The county maintains a graduation rate of 86.4%, which is more than a percentage point higher than the New York state average. Schools receive $14,398 in per-pupil spending, staying competitive with regional trends and exceeding the national average. A composite score of 67.6 shows the county performs right in line with the statewide benchmark.

A Balance of Large Districts and Choice

Homer Central and Cortland City are the primary districts, each educating nearly 1,860 students across their respective campuses. Cortland is also home to one charter school, representing roughly 6% of the total schools in the county. This variety offers families a choice between large traditional districts and alternative public options.

Navigating Larger Town Schools and Rural Gems

With 10 schools in town settings and seven in rural areas, the county offers a versatile feel for students. Cortland High School is the largest facility with 596 students, while the countywide average of 328 ensures most buildings remain easy to navigate. The mix of elementary hubs like Homer Elementary creates a structured and welcoming atmosphere.

Settle Down Near Top-Performing Town Districts

Cortland County provides a stable academic environment with graduation rates that consistently outperform the state. Families moving to Homer or Cortland City can benefit from established districts with solid funding and diverse school types. Look for homes in these areas to give your students a competitive edge in their education.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Cortland County

via RiskByCounty

Cortland County ranks among the safest

Cortland County's composite risk score of 51.24 places it well below the national average, earning a relatively low risk rating. This significantly below-average score reflects notably low exposure to most major natural hazards, particularly wildfires and tornadoes. Cortland residents enjoy one of the more favorable disaster risk profiles in the nation.

New York's safest county in this comparison

At 51.24, Cortland County scores substantially below New York's state average of 69.42, ranking it among the state's safest counties for natural disaster exposure. This favorable position means Cortland residents face significantly lower disaster vulnerability compared to most New York neighbors. The county's risk profile simplifies insurance decisions and preparedness planning.

Lowest-risk county in this regional group

Cortland's 51.24 score ranks it as the safest county among these eight, well below even Essex County (62.66) and Clinton County (68.80). This substantially lower exposure compared to regional peers like Chenango (72.33) and Delaware (83.33) reflects notably gentler terrain and weather patterns. Your county's favorable position is a genuine asset for long-term planning and property investment.

Flooding is your only significant concern

Cortland County's flood risk (71.85) stands as its primary natural hazard exposure, though still below the state average. Wildfire risk (9.89) ranks among the nation's lowest, and tornado exposure (37.40) remains well-managed. Your hazard profile is unusually straightforward compared to most counties.

Flood insurance provides essential coverage

Despite Cortland's exceptional overall safety ranking, flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program remains important given your county's 71.85 flood risk score. Standard homeowners insurance combined with this specialized flood coverage provides comprehensive protection for Cortland properties. Annual review of coverage ensures your policy reflects your property's actual risk.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Cortland County

via WeatherByCounty

Cold and exceptionally wet

Cortland County is significantly cooler than the national median, averaging just 44.7°F. High moisture levels result in 45.1 inches of precipitation, exceeding the state average.

A chillier New York outlier

With an average temperature nearly 3 degrees below the state mean of 47.4°F, Cortland is one of the region's coldest spots. It is notably wetter and snowier than the typical New York county.

Burying neighbors in snow

The county receives 117.3 inches of snow, far surpassing neighbor Chenango County's 66.5 inches. Extreme heat is almost non-existent here, with only 1 day reaching 90°F annually.

A dominant winter season

Winter dominates the cycle with 117.3 inches of snow and a January average of 20.9°F. Summer is mild and brief, with a seasonal average of only 65.2°F.

Reinforcing for the snow load

Structural reinforcement and roof rakes are vital for managing 117 inches of snow. Air conditioning is rarely a priority given the county experiences only one day of extreme heat.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Cortland County

via SoilByCounty

Top-Tier Soil for Local Growers

Cortland County boasts a pH of 5.62, outperforming the state average of 5.11. Even without taxonomic records, the data shows this soil is more acidic than the 6.5 national median.

Dense Earth Retains Nutrients

The soil composition is heavy on silt at 45.5% and low on sand at 21.5%. This creates a dense, productive earth that retains nutrients effectively but may require careful management to avoid compaction.

High Fertility and Water Storage

Organic matter levels reach 14.83%, which is near the New York state average of 17.01%. This richness drives a high available water capacity of 0.210 in/in, which is significantly better than the state average.

Excellent Moisture Regulation Potential

Though specific hydrologic groups are not listed, the high soil score of 77.4 suggests very high environmental quality. This land likely supports excellent moisture regulation for both farming and landscaping projects.

A Sweet Spot for Cool-Weather Crops

Cortland sits in zone 5b, making it perfect for cool-weather crops like broccoli and snap peas. With a soil score well above the state average, your garden has a massive head start.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Cortland County

via LawnByCounty

Cortland County Offers Prime Lawn Conditions

A lawn difficulty score of 69.2 makes this county significantly friendlier for turf than the average New York county. This Zone 5b region benefits from moderate temperatures and consistent moisture that take the stress out of weekend yard work.

Cooler Summers and Ample Moisture

Cortland receives 45.1 inches of rain annually, ensuring your grass stays hydrated without heavy irrigation. With only 1 extreme heat day per year, cool-season grasses rarely experience the summer dormancy typical of warmer regions.

Strong Foundation with Low Sand Content

The soil features a relatively low 21.5% sand content and a pH of 5.62, which is closer to the ideal 6.0 range than many neighboring counties. This soil holds moisture well, though occasional aeration may be needed to ensure proper root oxygenation.

Reliable Rainfall Minimizes Drought Stress

The county experienced only 4 weeks of drought last year and currently has 0% area in dry conditions. This consistency allows for a more relaxed watering schedule, though maintaining a high mow height is still recommended for root health.

Planting for a Five-Month Season

Cool-season grasses like Perennial Ryegrass and Kentucky Bluegrass thrive when seeded in late spring or late summer. Wait for the May 13 frost date to pass before starting new seed, and expect growth to slow by the first frost on October 5.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cortland County's county score?
Cortland County, New York has a composite county score of 38.9 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does Cortland County rank among counties in New York?
Cortland County ranks #55 among all counties in New York on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in Cortland County, New York?
The median annual property tax in Cortland County is $4,184, with an effective tax rate of 2.65%. This earns Cortland County a tax score of 0.3/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Cortland County?
The median household income in Cortland County, New York is $67,527 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Cortland County earns an income score of 60.3/100 on CountyScore.
Is Cortland County, New York a good place to live?
Cortland County scores 38.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #55 in New York. The best way to evaluate Cortland County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare Cortland County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.