Cincinnatus is a peaceful retreat from nearby cities
Cincinnatus is a rural community at the eastern edge of Cortland County. Its small downtown area rests in the Otselic River valley, offering locally owned businesses, a central school and a few essential services. Beyond the town center, farms and evergreen forests blanket the rolling landscape. With Norwich and Cortland within a 25-mile drive, residents have access to employment opportunities and urban amenities, but Cincinnatus often appeals to those looking for a calm retreat from city life.
Historical homes and a few newer builds in Cincinnatus
Sidewalks line many of the relatively flat streets in the town’s center. Housing options comprise two-story National-style builds from the late 1800s and early 1900s, a few Victorian-style designs and some midcentury ranch-style homes. In the outlying areas, lots tend to be larger, with a mix of styles, including Colonial Revival and Cape Cod. “It’s mostly older housing- there isn’t much in the way of new construction,” says Joanne Sweeney, associate broker with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Heritage Realty, who has lived in the region all her life. “A few places pop up where a farmer sells land to somebody from a city, and then they build a nice house on it.”
Sales typically range from $70,000 to $190,000. Owners are responsible for maintaining their own wells and septic systems. Parts of the town are prone to flooding, and lenders may require flood insurance. The area's CAP Index Crime Score is 1 out of 10, well below the national average of 4.
Field days, church dinners and holiday events keep locals connected
Despite its relatively quiet, rural setting, residents have many opportunities to connect with their neighbors. Knickerbocker Country Club hosts golf leagues, United Presbyterian Church holds monthly pasta dinners and Cortland Chenango Rural Services organizes a farmers market during the growing season. Each June, the town-wide yard sale draws bargain hunters from nearby cities. The main event, however, is Cincinnatus Field Days, typically held in summer or early fall — timing often depends on when carnival rides are available. Field day attractions include fireworks, live music and tractor pulls. In December, townspeople begin the holiday season with a day-long community Christmas celebration featuring carriage rides, caroling and breakfast with Santa.
Strong community support for Cincinnatus High School’s FFA program
The Cincinnatus Central School District operates one large school complex in the heart of downtown, which serves both the town and the surrounding communities. Cincinnatus Elementary School and Cincinnatus Middle School each get a C from Niche, while Cincinnatus High School gets a C-plus. The high school offers a Future Farmers of America program, supported by an active FFA alumni organization that helps fund student attendance at conferences.
Recreation includes bowling, golf and fishing in the Otselic River
Local green spaces include Cincinnatus Town Park, which features a playground and a picnic pavilion, as well as a soccer field used by the Joint Youth Commission for summer practices. Knickerbocker Country Club offers an 18-hole course that is open to the public, and Cincinnatus Bowling Barn has pool tables and tenpin bowling lanes.
The natural surroundings also invite outdoor exploration, such as trout fishing and kayaking in the Otselic River. Gee Brook State Forest spans more than 850 acres along state Route 41, providing space for hunting, hiking and backcountry camping.
Cincinnatus Home Center and a few eateries, driving for more options
The Cincinnatus Home Center is the town’s one-stop destination for groceries, tools, garden supplies and even prepared foods. Sweeney recommends D’s Dairy Treat, a seasonal ice cream and burger stand. Knickerbocker Country Club is also open seasonally for lunch and dinner. Magro’s Italia Pizzeria offers casual, sit-down dining throughout the year. For broader retail and dining options, residents drive to Cortland or Norwich.
Car travel to services and jobs in Norwich or Cortland
Homes in the center of town are within walking distance of some businesses and services. Centro provides weekday bus service, but the community remains largely car dependent. “There is not really any industry in town, so most people have to seek out work in other places,” Sweeney says. The main thoroughfares are state routes 23, 26 and 41.
Family Health Network-Cincinnatus Health Center offers primary medical care, while the closest hospitals are in Cortland or Norwich. Cortland is roughly 20 miles west, and Norwich is a similar distance east. Greater Binghamton Airport is about 30 miles south.
