Cortland County, New York Demographics 2026

Population Overview

Cortland County is located in New York with a total population of 46,401. It is the 52nd most populous county out of 62 in New York. The county encompasses 1 Census-designated place.

Age Demographics

The median age in Cortland County is 36.5 years. This is 8% lower than the state median of 39.6 years.

Economy, Income & Housing

The median household income in Cortland County is $67,527. This is 20% lower than the state median of $84,578. Compared to the national median of $78,538, household income here is 14% lower. The poverty rate stands at 12.8%. This is 6% lower than the state poverty rate of 13.7%. The unemployment rate is 5.7%. This is 7% lower than the state rate of 6.2%. The median home value is $158,100. Housing costs are 61% lower than the state median of $403,000. With a home-value-to-income ratio of just 2.3x, Cortland County is one of the most affordable housing markets in the area. 66.4% of occupied housing units are owner-occupied. This homeownership rate is 22% higher than the state average of 54.3%.

Race & Ethnicity

Cortland County has a predominantly White (non-Hispanic) population, comprising 89.7% of all residents. Hispanic or Latino residents account for 3.5%. The White (non-Hispanic) population is significantly higher than the state average (89.7% vs 53.4%). The Black or African American population (2.0%) is well below the state average of 13.6%. The Hispanic or Latino population (3.5%) is well below the state average of 19.6%. The Asian population (1.4%) is well below the state average of 8.8%.

Education

28.3% of residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher. This is 28% lower than the state rate of 39.6%. Nationally, 35.0% of adults hold at least a bachelor's degree. The high school graduation rate (or equivalent) is 90.9%.