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Cortland is a small city of about 18,000 residents in Cortland County in central New York State, roughly 30 miles south of Syracuse. It is home to SUNY Cortland and has a classic upstate New York college-town character, with affordable rents, locally owned restaurants and bars, and a downtown that caters to both students and longtime residents. The surrounding region offers outdoor recreation including hiking, skiing at nearby Greek Peak Mountain Resort, and access to the Finger Lakes. Cortland's cost of living is well below the New York State average, making it an attractive option for students seeking budget-friendly housing.
Along Tompkins Street, Groton Avenue, and Maple Avenue, the most popular and convenient, with older multi-unit homes within walking distance of class.
Centered on Main Street, about a mile from campus, with restaurants, coffee shops, and retail within biking distance.
Quieter residential streets with even lower rents for students willing to live a bit farther from campus.
Here's what you need to know about getting around Cortland.
Cortland does not have a robust public transit network, and no regular city bus service operates on routes useful to most students. Cortland County has a rural transit program for specific needs, but it is not practical for daily student commuting. Most students who live more than a short walk from campus rely on personal vehicles, bicycles, or rides from friends.
The area immediately surrounding the SUNY Cortland campus is very walkable, with most student-heavy neighborhoods within a 10 to 20 minute walk of academic buildings. Cortland's terrain is relatively flat in the central city, making biking a practical option for students renting nearby. A bicycle is a cost-effective way to get around the campus area and reach downtown without a car.
Cortland has ample street parking and off-street parking throughout the city, and it is generally free or very low cost in residential neighborhoods. Students who bring cars to campus should note that on-campus parking requires a permit, while off-campus neighborhoods typically have unrestricted street parking. Finding a spot near your rental is rarely a problem for students living off campus.
Common questions from students searching for housing.
Cortland is a small, affordable upstate New York city with a strong student presence thanks to SUNY Cortland. It has a walkable campus area, a modest downtown with local dining and shops, and easy access to outdoor recreation in the surrounding region.
Browse student housing near each Cortland-area university.