$670,566Average Value$267Average Price per Sq Ft0Homes For Sale
An architecturally rich historic district with deep ties to Cornell University
As Ithaca’s first planned suburb, Cornell Heights Historic District stands as a beacon of 19th-century American residential development and architectural grandeur amidst the Fall Creek Gorge’s natural setting in Central New York. Conceived initially as an exclusive enclave for the distinguished faculty of the adjacent Cornell University, the meticulously planned 175-acre district showcases stately historic homes spanning 1898 to 1942 that preserve Cornell’s enduring legacy. Lavish landscaping along its undisturbed and walkable street patterns, a high level of architectural integrity, and continuous strong ties to Cornell University all contribute to the historic district's early-20th-century charm.
Opulent, historic homes balance university students
Though the neighborhood accommodates student housing, apartment complexes, and administrative buildings, Cornell Heights still maintains its historic, residential character through its architecturally diverse single-family homes set on large private lots. “Craftsman and Colonial Revival homes dating after 1900 are most prevalent, and many lovely houses have a lot of cross-fertilization of styles,” says local broker Margaret Hobbie of Howard Hanna Real Estate, who has been serving Ithaca since 1995. This stylistic eclecticism is highlighted by heavy Dutch Colonial, Tudor, Queen Anne and Victorian influences. Real estate prices range from smaller cottages for around $375,000 to grand Craftsman and Colonial estates on 2-acre properties fetching up to $1.25 million. In Cornell Heights, fraternity and sorority houses are the second most popular residential land use after single-family homes, and several Greek letter and independent organizations have acquired formerly private estates. As a result, residents may be subjected to loud music and parties, although Hobbie says the area remains relatively quiet most of the time.
The average home value in Cornell Heights is $622,000.
Homes in Cornell Heights on average sell after being on the market for 83 days.
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Intentional landscaping creates a lush environment
Even unintentional landscaping was intentional in the original planning of Cornell Heights, as the development was promoted as a high-class residential park. Wild growth complements expert landscaping, and an established tree canopy offers shade to students and residents who tread the neighborhood’s sidewalks. A kaleidoscope of color surrounds the historic district throughout the year: dogwood trees blush in the spring, clusters of wildflowers pop up along its curved roadways in the summer, maple trees blaze orange in the fall, and mature conifers create a dense blanket of green in the winter. Other original landscaping details include fieldstone walls and small segments of stone pathways decorating properties that still stand today.
The home price in Cornell Heights is up 81 percent compared to the previous 12 months.
This Queen Anne home in Cornell Heights is set on a hill with plenty of old trees around it.
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Botanical gardens and cascading waterfalls along Fall Creek Gorge
Apart from the University, Cornell Heights is immediately surrounded by the natural setting of Central New York. “I always said it’s a shame that Cornell Heights doesn’t have its own park,” says Hobbie, formerly a City Parks Commission member. “But residents use the Cornell campus as an informal park, and Fall Creek Gorge and Beebe Lake serve as lovely areas adjacent to Cornell Heights.” Many of these areas are walkable from the district, as a connective network of pathways and bridges weave through the University and surrounding natural spaces, including the scenic trail that encircles Beebe Lake. The University is also home to thousands of acres of lush gardens, including the Mundy Wildflower Garden and Cornell Botanic Gardens, which highlight a diversity of blooms and plants. Fall Creek frames the neighborhood’s southern border, and the Fall Creek Gorge’s deep ravines create rushing waterfalls with picturesque points such as Horseshoe Falls, Triphammer Falls and the well-known Ithaca Falls. The cool mist from Ithaca Falls’ cascading, thunderous waters refresh hikers who take the short 0.2-mile trail to see the 100-foot-tall sight, which features overhanging drops and irregular cliffs. Part of the Fingers Lake region, the district sits just south of the 38-mile-long Cayuga Lake, another recreation destination. Lake visitors swim in shallow waters or enjoy boating in the deeper waters. Anglers set up along the graveled banks to catch largemouth bass and carp, while hikers take to the winding waterfront trails.
Cornell Botanical Gardens in Cornell Height was established in 1935 as the Cornell Arboretum.
Ithaca Falls is a stunning 150 feet waterfall, just 17 feet less than Niagara Falls.
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Elevated eateries in neighboring Cayuga Heights and Downtown Ithaca
Cayuga Heights and Downtown Ithaca are nearby for dining, shopping, and other essentials. Corners Community, a small commercial area off Hanshaw Road in Cayuga Heights, features a florist, a tailor, and a variety of eateries. Colorful plates of Mediterranean-inspired seafood and meats grace the modern tables of the refined American restaurant The Heights. Across the street, Alléchant Bistro’s yellow doors and striped umbrellas beckon patrons to its contemporary yet cozy quarters, where they can enjoy elevated, French-inspired dishes. Favorites for a dinner out in Downtown Ithaca include Mercato Bar & Kitchen and vegetarian fixture Moosewood Restaurant. Bars like The Downstairs and The Range attract imbibers and concertgoers to its establishments for live music and craft drinks. On Cornell University’s campus, students and residents alike frequently visit staples like Taverna Banfi and more casual Mac’s Café. Groceries can be picked up at the Aldi or Wegmans off N.Y. State Route 13, and fresh produce and local goods are available at the Ithaca Farmers Market, which takes place seasonally every Wednesday and Saturday.
Allechant Bistro in Cornell Heights is known for its Bánh Mi-style duck breast.
The Heights and H in Cornell Heights is named as one of 9 standout wine location in central NY.
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Top-ranked public, private and post-secondary Ithaca schools
The top-rated Ithaca City School District serves the neighborhood's youngest pupils. Schools include Cayuga Heights Elementary and Boynton Middle School, both earning an A-minus overall grade from Niche. With an A rating, high-achieving Ithaca Senior High School is frequently ranked among New York's best high schools. Cornell Heights students may also receive a private education at A-plus-rated Cascadilla School, which serves ninth through twelfth grade. Naturally, proximity and ties to Cornell University are a plus for residents seeking an Ivy League post-secondary education.
Ithaca High School ranks first in best public High Schools in Tompkins County on Niche.
Boynton Middle School in Ithaca has an overall A- rating on Niche.
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Academic and creative cultural events at Cornell University
The University’s many visual and performing arts centers offer a tapestry of events and goings-on. Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art showcases rotating and fixed exhibits of ancient art to modern photography. Concerts ranging from jazz to classical fill Bailey Hall’s theater, while the Schwartz Center for the Performing Arts hosts dance performances, plays and film screenings. The University’s academic event calendar is also robust, featuring keynote speakers, enriching lectures and more. Additionally, Ithaca’s diverse range of houses of worship, from Christian churches to synagogues, hosts various community events. “Between the fine arts museum and the performing arts centers, concerts and events go on frequently at the university, and they’re in walking distance,” Hobbie says. “The proximity to cultural events and the university all add to the district’s appeal.”
Cornell University near Cornell Heights is an Ivy League university that was founded in 1865.
Cornell University near Cornell Heights has 26.000 students from 130 countries.
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Proximity to State Route 13 and the Ithaca International Airport
Stewart Avenue and Triphammer Road are the historic district’s main roads, but residents benefit from the proximity to N.Y. State Route 13, which connects to Downtown Ithaca. Bus stations along Thurston Avenue take commuters to stops within the University, Downtown, and other neighboring communities. The Ithaca Tompkins International Airport is only a 9-minute drive from Cornell Heights.
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.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Karen Hollands,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Parks in this Area
Taughannock Falls State Park
Ithaca Falls Natural Area
Transit
Airport
Ithaca Tompkins International
9 min drive
Bus
Lake St & Ithaca High School
Bus
Highland & Thurston
Bus
Triphammer & Dearborn
Crime and Safety
1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime
Cornell Heights
US
Homicide
2
4
Sexual Assault
3
4
Assault with Weapon
2
4
Robbery
3
4
Burglary
4
4
Motor Vehicle Theft
2
4
Larceny
3
4
Crime Score
3
4
Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com
Cornell Heights Demographics and Home Trends
On average, homes in Cornell Heights, Ithaca sell after 60 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Cornell Heights, Ithaca over the last 12 months is $653,000, up 151% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Impeccably maintained center hall colonial located in Cornell Heights Historic District. This four bedroom, three bathroom home is just steps away from Cornell Campus, walking trails, and waterfalls. The main level offers gleaming hardwood floors, large living room with gas fireplace, office with a separate entrance, dining room that leads to a timelessly design kitchen with a wet bar, oak
Jill RosentelWarren Real Estate of Ithaca Inc. (Downtown)
Welcome to this stately, character-filled home built in 1910, offering timeless charm and solid investment appeal. Spanning close to 3,000 square feet, this grand residence boasts original architectural details, high ceilings, large windows, and hardwood floors that speak to its historic roots. A large foyer welcomes you as you enter the home and leads you to the spacious living room
116 & 116.5 Heights Court is a three-story, identical side-by-side duplex, located next to 114 Heights Court, which is also on the market. Nestled in the charming historic neighborhood of Cornell Heights, this property is just steps away from North Cornell Campus and boasts a consistent student rental history. Each side of the duplex features elegant hardwood floors, four bedrooms, and 1.5 bath.
Perched over Ithaca Falls, Edgecliff Apartments are adjacent to Cornell's West Campus and feature full furnishings, fantastic views overlooking Ithaca, and large living areas. Just a 10 minute walk to the center of the Cornell campus, and located on TCAT's Bus Route 10 serving Cornell campus, these apartments are ideal for students and professionals alike.
Now leasing for the 2026–2027 school year, 200 Highland Ave offers a rare blend of historic charm and modern luxury across two thoughtfully designed buildings. Perfectly designed for athletic teams, Greek life, or friend groups in mind, the property includes 24 bedrooms, nine bathrooms, five kitchens, off-street parking, and an array of brand-new finishes from the ground up. A secret-style
This lovely 4 bedroom 2 bathroom home is fully furnished with a wood burning fireplace, sunroom, washer/dryer, and a one car garage. Resident would pay for the following: water/sewer, garbage/recycling, heat/electricity, and cable/internet.The following is included in the rent: lawn care and snow removal. Pets are accepted on a case-by-case basis.
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Karen Hollands,
an experienced agent in this neighborhood.
Average Home Value
Source: Public Records
Property Mix - Square Feet
This Neighborhood Has More Renters
Demographics
Total Population
1,178
Median Age
26
Population under 18
18.2%
Below the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
9.9%
Below the national average
19.1%
Finances
Median Household Income
$32,083
Significantly below the national average
$71,702
Average Household Income
$82,699
Education and Workforce
High School Graduates
98%
College Graduates
56%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
49.5%
Significantly above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
55.4%
Weather
Annual Precipitation
38''
Average Winter Low Temperature
15°F
Average Summer High Temperature
80°F
Annual Snowfall
41''
Area Factors
Somewhat Bikeable
Bike Score®
36/ 100
Car-Dependent
Walk Score®
45/ 100
Source: Walk Score
Source: Walk Score
Sound Score® measures the noise level of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the bikeability of any address.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
