DeRuyter is a friendly and rural town in upstate New York
Locals of DeRuyter enjoy a rural lifestyle, a laid-back community and necessities at their fingertips. Country roads through rolling hills and farms lead to local hangouts, and vast stretches of state-owned land allow for activities like hunting, snowmobiling and fishing. And while buyers find secluded lots on acres of land in DeRuyter, Syracuse is just 30 miles north. “It’s got quite a bit of options for a small town, and it’s a nice hometown feel there,” says Tara Emm, real estate agent at Coldwell Banker Prime Properties. She explains that the community feels relaxed and friendly. “Everyone knows everyone,” she says.
Spacious properties on the water or bordering state-owned land
Buyers find homes overlooking the water of DeRuyter Reservoir, hidden away on expanses of land bordering state forests or sitting on half-acre lots in the community’s village area. Emm explains that homebuyers in DeRuyter often look for secluded properties that aren’t at risk of disruption from new developments. “I don’t think [development] is going to happen for hundreds of years after we’re gone. Not any time in the near future,” she says.
Common home styles include farmhouses and traditional properties built in the 1800s and early 1900s, as well as some ornate Victorian houses in the village. Ranch styles and log cabins are popular styles from the late 20th century. Houses typically sell for between $200,000 and $430,000, with waterfront properties reaching up to $700,000. Manufactured homes can sell for under $100,000. DeRuyter’s CAP Index Crime Score is a 1, below the national average of 4.
Outdoor recreation on the lake, forested trails and ski slopes
Locals enjoy sunsets over DeRuyter Reservoir, a small fishing and boating lake. Ice fishermen can catch panfish and walleye here during the winter as well. Bordering the reservoir, DeRuyter State Forest has nearly 1,000 acres of woods intersected by trails suitable for hunting, snowmobiling, horseback riding, cross-country skiing and hiking. Mariposa State Forest and Three Springs State Forest also offer outdoor activities in DeRuyter.
There’s plenty more recreation nearby: A short hike takes visitors to a cascading waterfall at Delphi Falls County Park, just north of DeRuyter, Labrador Mountain has over 20 ski trails 10 miles west, and Apple Creek Golf Course has nine public holes just south.
Kids attend the DeRuyter Central School District
DeRuyter Central School District has an overall C Niche rating. Local children typically begin at DeRuyter Elementary School, which has a C rating from Niche and serves kindergarten through grade four. Fifth through 12th graders attend C-rated DeRuyter Middle/High School. High schoolers have the opportunity to take college-level courses for free at the school. Instructors who are adjuncts with Tompkins Cortland Community College teach these classes on the high school campus.
Restaurants, grocers and institutions in DeRuyter
DeRuyter’s village area has several businesses and restaurants. Shelly’s Bar and Restaurant has classics like wings and burgers, while Sal’s Pizzeria has authentic Italian dishes in a casual setting. “[It’s owned by] people who actually come from Italy. They’ve been here for years,” Emm says. Big M Supermarket and Dollar General have necessities in town. The village also has institutions like the DeRuyter Free Library, a post office, a firehouse and the United Church of DeRuyter.
Events include the annual Fireman’s Fair and Tromptown Marathon
DeRuyter’s biggest event each year is its Fireman’s Fair in August. Small businesses and community members come out to show support, raise money for local causes and have a weekend of fun. Events include carnival rides and games, raffles, a truck and tractor pull, a parade and fireworks. The Tromptown Marathon is another annual tradition. This race, which originated as an event at the Fireman’s Fair, has evolved into its own event in late September. Runners pass around DeRuyter Lake, through the hilly countryside and around the village area during the race.
Getting to Syracuse from DeRuyter
State Route 13 goes through DeRuyter, connecting commuters to major highways like Interstate 81. Commuters can get to downtown Syracuse, 30 miles north, in about 45 minutes. Syracuse is also home to the Syracuse Hancock International Airport and SUNY Upstate Medical University Hospital. Cortland is also about 20 miles southwest of DeRuyter and is home to the Guthrie Cortland Medical Center.
![Faith Wakefield]()
Written By
Faith Wakefield
