$294,309Average Value$186Average Price per Sq Ft30Homes For Sale
Cortland’s growth is tied to its location and peaceful atmosphere
In Cortland, housing developments carve out space from former farms and fields to make way for new homes and residents. The town in DeKalb County is home to about 4,500 people and saw more than 100% population increase from 1990 to 2000, and then again from 2000 to 2010. What is the reason for this rapid growth? Cortland's proximity to two cities. "If you could combine DeKalb and Sycamore and make a mini version, that would be Cortland," says Gretchen Weber, associate broker with Baird & Warner Fox Valley and a top seller in the area. Little exists in the bedroom community besides residential streets and a small center with town buildings. But that smallness is what attracts newcomers to the neighborhood. "People prefer that small-town, quiet feeling in Cortland," Weber says. "They still have access to the busier areas with shopping and dining, but then they can return home to the quiet."
Cortland’s peaceful streets showcase a mix of charming home styles.
Cortland’s historic sign has stood proudly since 1865.
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Tree-shaded older homes sit beside sidewalk-lined new construction
Some homes date back to the 1970s and 1980s, but most are from the 1990s onward. The older homes, like Colonial Revivals, split-levels, Cape Cods and ranch-style homes, are shaded by tall trees in front yards, which have been growing since the homes were built half a century ago. The houses range between $200,000 and $310,000. New Traditional, Modern Craftsman and other styles from the past two decades in sidewalk-lined developments range between $300,000 and $400,000. Townhouses of the same design sell for $200,000 to $275,000, with those built in the past few years at the top of the range. "The homes are reasonably priced, especially compared to the two nearby cities," Weber says. "And, in general, new homes don't sit long after they're built. They move quickly."
Classic Colonial homes add timeless charm to Cortland neighborhoods.
Welcoming front porches give Cortland homes a cozy, inviting feel.
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Learning with technology at well-rated schools across two districts
Most students are zoned to attend DeKalb Community Unit School District 428 schools, beginning at Cortland Elementary School, which receives a C score from Niche. Huntley Middle School is rated C-plus, and DeKalb High School earns a B-plus. A small section of the area is zoned for the Sycamore Community School District 427. "The northern part of Cortland is less expensive than Sycamore but shares the same schools, which is attractive to some homebuyers," Weber says. South Prairie Elementary School is rated B, Sycamore Middle School earns a B-minus and Sycamore High School earns a B-plus. Across both districts, there is a one-to-one student technology initiative.
Huntley Middle School near Cortland provides modern facilities for learning and activities.
DeKalb High School educates Cortland students in grades 9 through 12.
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Local parks offer the basics, while nearby towns offer more recreation
Small pocket parks between the area's residential streets include Suppeland Park, Hetchler Park and McPhillips Park. Cortland Community Park is the largest, with a baseball diamond, a playground and a pavilion. "The little parks there are great for families, but people looking to hike, play sports or golf are going to go elsewhere," Weber says. Golf courses, both private and public, are in DeKalb and Sycamore, and forest preserves with hiking trails are in Genoa.
Hetchler Park offers open green space and pavilions for family gatherings in Cortland.
Cortland Community Park boasts open fields, a baseball diamond, and family fun.
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There’s limited dining in town, but easy access to national retailers
One of just two places to eat in Cortland, Sam's Family Restaurant is where residents go for large servings of omelets and home fries in the morning, and burgers with crinkle-cut fries in the evening. Dollar General and gas stations with convenience stores are in the area, and Yaeger's Farm Market is a seasonal shop selling flowers and produce grown at a local family farm. Locally owned eateries and shops are in downtown DeKalb, west on Lincoln Highway. The region's main shopping center is on the border of DeKalb and Sycamore, only about 4 miles from Cortland. Walmart, Lowe's, Target and other national retailers anchor the large plazas on either side of Sycamore Road.
Fresh local produce awaits at Yaeger’s Farm Market in Cortland.
Daily shopping is just 4 miles from Cortland, keeping essentials close to home.
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Major employers in DeKalb and Sycamore are close
No buses stop in the area, so residents rely on cars to get around. DeKalb and Sycamore are each less than 5 miles away and have significant employers like Northern Illinois University, Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital and a Target distribution center. Some residents commute to Chicago, about 65 miles east via Interstate 88. Dekalb Taylor Municipal Airport is next to Cortland. While it has no commercial flights, hobby and agricultural planes occasionally fly overhead. Chicago O'Hare International Airport is 63 miles away.
O’Hare Airport offers global access just over an hour from Cortland.
Cortland residents benefit from nearby job opportunities at Northern Illinois University.
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Written By
Heather Haggerty
Photography Contributed By
Sara Warthen
Video By
Ellie Brown
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Amy Smith-Heine,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Cortland, IL sell after 38 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Cortland, IL over the last 12 months is $271,975, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Showings will begin after the First Look on Saturday 4/18 from 12:00-2:00 PM. Charming colonial with welcoming front porch and classic red door offers great curb appeal and comfortable living throughout. Inside, you'll find hardwood floors, French doors connecting the living and family rooms, and sliding doors leading to a backyard designed for enjoyment. The fenced yard features a deck, patio,
Spacious and beautifully appointed end-unit townhome built in 2023, offering the perfect blend of modern design, comfort, and low-maintenance living! This light-filled home features an open-concept floor plan with bright, sunny living spaces throughout. Boasting 4 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, this home includes a full basement for added flexibility and storage. The primary suite features a large
A new inventory home at Richland Trails, the popular Hickory IV Ranch. This charming single story, open concept has 1,613 sq. ft. with 3 bed/2 bath/2 car garage and full, unfinished basement for future build out or storage space. Many upgrades: vaulted ceiling in the Great Room, upgraded cabinets in the kitchen & baths, upgraded Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring throughout most of the first floor, 3/4
AMAZING, UNDER CONSTRUCTION 1/2 DUPLEX!! Another spectacular new construction project in the desirable Chestnut Grove subdivision! 2 BR, 1 BATH 1/2 duplex features a fantastic open floor plan! Ranch-style living with everything you need on one level! The kitchen features an expanded island with bar stool seating, granite countertops, white or gray cabinetry, aged bronze or nickel fixtures, and
BRAND NEW, CHARLOTTE MODEL RANCH HOME WITH BEAUTIFUL OPEN CONCEPT!!! Another spectacular project in the desirable Richland Trails subdivision! 3 BR, 2 FULL BATH home with stunning features throughout! The kitchen features beautiful white or grey cabinetry, granite countertops, and an island with barstool seating that opens into your dining and great room! Vaulted ceilings in the living, dining,
AMAZING, WILLIAMSBURG MODEL RANCH HOME WITH BEAUTIFUL OPEN CONCEPT!!! Another spectacular new construction project in the desirable Richland Trails subdivision! 3 BR, 2 FULL BATH home with stunning features throughout! The kitchen features beautiful white cabinetry, granite countertops, and an island with barstool seating that opens into your dining and great room! Huge walk-in pantry! Vaulted
BRAND NEW WESTCHESTER MODEL, WITH FANTASTIC OPEN FLOOR PLAN!! Another spectacular new construction project in the desirable Richland Trails subdivision! 4 BR, 2 FULL bath home with stunning features throughout! Vaulted ceilings in living, dining, and kitchen! The kitchen features beautiful white or grey cabinetry, granite countertops, and an island with barstool seating that opens into your
AMAZING, UNDER CONSTRUCTION 1/2 DUPLEX!! Another spectacular new construction project in the desirable Chestnut Grove subdivision! 2 BR, 1 BATH 1/2 duplex features a fantastic open floor plan! Ranch-style living with everything you need on one level! The kitchen features an expanded island with bar stool seating, granite countertops, white or gray cabinetry, aged bronze or nickel fixtures, and
AMAZING, UNDER CONSTRUCTION 1/2 DUPLEX!! Another spectacular new construction project in the desirable Chestnut Grove subdivision! 2 BR, 1 BATH 1/2 duplex features a fantastic open floor plan! Ranch-style living with everything you need on one level! The kitchen features an expanded island with bar stool seating, granite countertops, white or gray cabinetry, aged bronze or nickel fixtures, and
AMAZING, UNDER CONSTRUCTION 1/2 DUPLEX!! Another spectacular new construction project in the desirable Chestnut Grove subdivision! 2 BR, 1 BATH 1/2 duplex features a fantastic open floor plan! Ranch-style living with everything you need on one level! The kitchen features an expanded island with bar stool seating, granite countertops, white or gray cabinetry, aged bronze or nickel fixtures, and
Move in ready new home! A beautifully crafted 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offering 2,058 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space. With its large covered porch and striking exterior, this home makes a warm and lasting first impression before you even walk through the door. Inside, you're greeted by the staircase to the second level and the expansive great room-perfect for both lively
Ready to move in, a beautifully designed 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offering 2,164 square feet of comfortable and connected living space. From the moment you step into the large, welcoming foyer, this home feels open, inviting, and ready to make memories. At the front of the home, the staircase to the second floor greets you on the right, while the expansive great room opens to your left-perfect
This home is Move-In Ready! Looking for a New Construction Home, but wanting to move sooner? We have the perfect home for you! Welcome to 20 W Sandalwood Ave, The Holbrook! Welcome to 20 W Sandalwood Ave, The Holbrook—a beautifully designed 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home with 2,164 square feet of space made for everyday living and memorable moments. Step into the welcoming foyer and imagine greeting
Proposed New Construction. Welcome to this magnificent new construction home, The Haven, a stunning embodiment of modern luxury and comfort. Offering exceptional craftsmanship and an array of thoughtful design features, this residence presents an extraordinary opportunity for discerning buyers seeking elegance, functionality, and style. As you approach the property, you will be captivated by its
NEW PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION. The Westwood plan is perfect for the homeowner looking for a sleek and luxurious spin on the open concept ranch. As you walk through the front door of the Westwood, you'll be greeted by an entryway taking you past two secluded bathrooms that share a bathroom. From there, you'll enter the exposed kitchen with granite countertops and an island that looks out over the
Welcome To Cortland Estates Apartments! Cortland Estates offers 2 and 3 bedroom apartments at a reasonable price. Here at Cortland Estates, we don't just rent apartments. From the moment you walk through the front door you'll feel the comfort and security that makes our residents happy to call us home. Cutting edge amenities, meticulously-groomed grounds, and a dedicated staff contributes to a
For Rent - 25 E. Chestnut Ave, Cortland, IL Spacious lower-level unit in a well-maintained duplex just steps from downtown Cortland! This 2-bedroom layout offers flexible living space and can easily function as a 3-bedroom with a simple conversion - perfect for a home office, guest room, or additional bedroom. Enjoy a bright and comfortable main-level living arrangement with convenient access to
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