Cortland County, NY
46,126 residents · 499 sq mi · 92.5/sq mi · 47% rural
About Cortland County
Cortland County is a county located in the U.S. state of New York. As of the 2020 census, the population of Cortland County was 46,809. The county seat is Cortland. The county is named after Pierre Van Cortlandt, president of the convention at Kingston that wrote the first New York State Constitution in 1777, and first lieutenant governor of the state. The county is part of the Central New York region of the state.
Prepper Assessment
This area features a mix of rural and suburban environments with a population density of 92.5 people per square mile, indicating a relatively populated setting compared to more remote regions. The climate is characterized by an annual mean temperature of 45.4°F and an average annual rainfall of 44.3 inches, supporting a growing season suitable for USDA zone 7a crops. The humid water classification can be beneficial for gardening and farming, though the colder winter lows of 13.6°F may limit year-round growing options.
Cortland County faces several natural hazards, with riverine flooding (FEMA rank 72) being a notable concern, alongside landslides and severe winter weather. The county's disaster percentile of 51 suggests a moderate risk profile, and while it has a low violence percentile of 3, indicating safety, the population density may lead to more competition for resources. Additionally, the median home price of $148,200, while reasonable, may still pose a challenge for some potential homesteaders.
This county may suit individuals or families looking for a balance between rural living and community amenities, particularly those who can manage the risks associated with flooding and winter weather. Those who thrive here will likely have a strong interest in agriculture or self-sufficient practices. However, urban-oriented individuals or those seeking extreme remoteness might find the population density and potential hazards to be dealbreakers in their homesteading plans.