| Statistic | Cortland | Illinois | National |
| Population | 4,261 | 12,671,821 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,168 | 228 | 91 |
| Median age | 30.2 | 37.4 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 1.2:1 | 1.0:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 50% | 55% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 55% | 44% | 43% |
| Speak English | 89% | 77% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 10% | 13% | 13% |
The demographics of Cortland offer invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of both urban and rural areas, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to foster prosperity, equity, and well-being for all residents. With a population of 4,261, Cortland exhibits a population density of 1,168 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 30.2, with 50% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 55% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Cortland, 11% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 30% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.
The 5 largest ethnic groups in Cortland are 82.6% White, 11.4% Black or African American, 0.9% Asian, 0% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 13.5% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of note, 88.6% of households reported speaking English only, while 9.8% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 6.6% of residents were classified as foreign-born. The Cortland racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown are essential for comprehending and addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities.
Cortland, characterized by above-average population density, plays a pivotal role in promoting environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Its compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, active transportation modes like walking and cycling and the utilization of public transit, fostering sustainable lifestyles and mitigating environmental impact. Additionally, the area's dense population contributes to a vibrant social and cultural scene, featuring a diverse array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity fuels creativity, innovation, and cross-cultural exchange, enhancing the community's social fabric. The Cortland population density stands at 1,168, exceeding the national average, at 91 people per square mile, positioning it in a nice position to reap the benefits of densely populated areas.
A family-friendly city like Cortland can prioritize the well-being and needs of families, creating an environment where children thrive, parents feel supported and families can enjoy a high quality of life together. Family-friendly cities are also known to foster a strong sense of community, with neighbors supporting and looking out for one another. These areas could also boast excellent educational opportunities, including high-quality schools, libraries and extracurricular activities. Access to quality education is essential for children's development and future success. By prioritizing the well-being of its residents, such cities become vibrant and resilient communities where families can truly flourish. In Cortland, 55% of families have kids under the age of 18 and 50% of residents over 15 years old are married. These demographics put this area in a position to reap the benefits of a family-friendly area.
Social Cohesion: The analysis and understanding of demographics are essential for promoting social cohesion and fostering appreciation among diverse communities. By embracing and acknowledging differences in Cortland demographics, societies can promote inclusivity, diversity and social harmony while addressing social inequalities and advocating for equal opportunities. Racial demographics can reflect the diversity within a population and are instrumental in fostering inclusive and welcoming communities. Embracing ethnic diversity strengthens social connections, promotes cultural understanding and enriches society by celebrating the contributions of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Education Allocation: Cortland demographic data can help guide education planning by identifying student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs, helping schools and policymakers allocate resources and develop effective educational programs. It can be an essential tool for identifying disparities in educational access and outcomes among different demographic groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status, or students with disabilities. By disaggregating data by demographic factors, education planners can identify areas of inequity and develop targeted interventions to improve access, support and outcomes for marginalized students. Overall, Cortland demographic data is invaluable in education for promoting equity, supporting student success, and fostering inclusive learning environments that meet the needs of all students.
Understanding Populations: Analyzing and interpreting the Cortland demographic data provides us with valuable insights into the characteristics and composition of populations, encompassing age, gender, race, ethnicity, income, education and other socio-economic variables. This understanding is crucial for addressing the diverse needs, preferences and challenges encountered by various demographic groups within communities. Demographics play a crucial role in understanding populations, informing decision-making processes, and advancing equity, inclusion, and overall well-being for all individuals and communities. The Cortland population and demographic data serves as a foundation for addressing social, economic and environmental challenges, while also nurturing the well-being and resilience of societies.
| Race | Cortland | Illinois | National |
| White | 82.61% | 72.14% | 73.35% |
| Black | 11.43% | 14.30% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.94% | 5.10% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.00% | 0.23% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.00% | 0.03% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 4.34% | 2.34% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.68% | 5.86% | 4.75% |
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