Our College Town

Whether you’re visiting for a day or spending the next four years here, there are many things you should know about Cortland, N.Y., and the surrounding area. Students and families can use this page to browse local restaurants, discover nearby attractions and learn more about what makes our college town special.

Consider some of our community’s recent good news:

• In 2019, SUNY Cortland was named the safest campus in New York state, according to data analyzed from the U.S. Department of Education and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Cortland also ranks No. 21 among the 50 Safest College Towns in America, according to SafeWise — the only New York state community on the list.

• The city of Cortland earned $10 million in 2017 as part of the state’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative plus $2 million from the state’s Regional Economic Development Council to build new pedestrian and bicycle connections. 

• Cortland placed No. 8 among “Best Small Cities for New Grads,” a list based on factors such as median monthly rent, median earnings for those with a bachelor’s degree, percentage of residents ages 20-34 and entertainment options.

Our streets are safe. Our downtown is transforming. Our people are genuine. 

You’ll find that Cortland is an extraordinary place, one that we’re proud to call our home.