Rural living in picturesque Ira
Ira, 21 miles north of Auburn, is a rural town offering rolling farmlands, scenic woodlands and rustic seclusion in picturesque Cayuga County. “It’s just gorgeous,” says Tamela Hoffman, an associate real estate broker at Hunt Real Estate ERA with over 28 years of experience. “We get the four seasons — best of all worlds.” Residents shop and dine in neighboring Cato, attend schools in Baldwinsville, 12 miles away, and commute to Syracuse, 26 miles away, via State Route 370. “It’s a small-town feel in the area,” Hoffman says. “Basically, it’s a slower way of life, and people love it.”
Historic farmhouses and late 20th-century homes with acreage
Most homes on the market are late 20th-century ranch-style or Minimal Traditional, but historic farmhouses are also typical in the area. “They’ve got a lot of pre-Civil War homes,” Hoffman says. These single-family homes are often set along country roads lined with farmland. Many come with acreage, allowing for privacy and additions like barns, workshops and detached garages. “There is very little new construction,” Hoffman says. “Occasionally, somebody will buy [land and build], but that’s not typical.” Prices typically range from $50,000 to $500,000, depending on size, features and renovation needs.
Academic opportunities at Charles W. Baker High
Ira is part of several school districts, including Baldwinsville Central School District, which Niche rates a B-plus overall. Kids may start at Mae E. Reynolds Elementary before moving to Donald S. Ray Middle and Charles W. Baker High, all of which are B-plus. Teens may take dual-enrollment courses for credit at SUNY Oswego. Baker High also offers career and technical education courses, including architectural drawing, child psychology and sports marketing.
Cross Lake and recreation in Cato
Instead of planned green spaces, Ira offers pastoral views with meandering creeks and trails running throughout the town. “It’s actually beautiful,” Hoffman says. “The landscaping is gorgeous — it’s an incredible place.” Five miles away in Cato, Mott Park is a popular spot for a picnic or pick-up basketball. Nearby, the Cato Recreation Center features a swimming pool, fitness center and indoor track. Exercise classes are offered, too, like step aerobics, evening yoga and Pilates. Seven miles away, Cross Lake is the community’s go-to for swimming and boating. “Cross Lake is a 4-mile-long by 1-mile-wide lake with access on the Erie,” Hoffman says. “Around the lake, there are several camps and a lot of seasonal people who come for the summer.” Anglers can cast lines in the lake for largemouth bass and common carp. “The fishing is fantastic,” Hoffman says.
Mom-and-pop shopping and dining in Cato
Cato has a few locally owned shopping and dining options. The Busted Yolk is a brunch diner with morning coffee and indulgent creations, like blueberry-stuffed French toast and waffle sandwiches. Across the street, there’s New York Pizzeria with quick slices, hot subs and baked pasta dishes. After a meal, Colonial Inn, Inc. is the spot to wind down with a game of pool and a cold beer.
Dollar General sells home essentials, and Terry’s Food Market offers basic groceries. Nearby, family-owned Hornings Produce is known for its freshly baked goods and locally sourced flowers, fruit and veggies. “Most people go to Auburn or Baldwinsville, about a 20-minute drive, to shop,” Hoffman says.
Events in Auburn and the Civic Heritage History Center
In Cato, the Civic Heritage History Center is a museum dedicated to the histories of Cato, Ira, Victory and Conquest. Museum visitors can admire cherished artifacts from the town’s early days, including preserved documents and antiques, like a 19th-century cotton gin. The center hosts occasional events, like July’s Pioneer Days with fiddle music and historical demonstrations, like tin lantern making and woodworking.
Ira participates in other Cayuga County events throughout the year, like Auburn’s Harriet Tubman Day celebration, with live music and guest speakers at the Auburn Public Theater. In September, Tomatofest is another Auburn-hosted event, where festivalgoers donate to the annual food drive and compete in the veggie art contest.
Easy commuting to Syracuse
State routes 35 and 370 pass through Ira, providing direct routes to Auburn and Syracuse, respectively. “We’re 30 minutes from Syracuse,” Hoffman says. “It’s an easy commute.” Residents drive to get around Cayuga County, but Cato’s village streets are sidewalk-lined and walkable. Auburn Community Hospital is 20 miles away, and Syracuse Hancock International Airport is 27 miles away.
