Cortland, Ohio, was once Baconsburg, but it wasn't because BLT lovers gathered here to live. The original community name honored one Samuel Bacon, builder of a sawmill and several major buildings in the area in the early 19th century.
Today, Cortland, Ohio, is a town of just over 7,100 residents, a part of the greater Youngstown-Warren-Boardman OH-PA metropolitan area. The city grew around the construction of a railroad station in 1874, when it was then a village -- but now, with a growing population, it's officially a town (as of 1980). Come join the local residents in this near-the-lake community of bright fall foliage and warm summers.
Moving to Cortland
If you're looking for apartment homes in Cortland, OH, be sure to give yourself plenty of time. In the center of town, particularly, rentals can be scarce. Summer, when seasonal visitors gather along the lovely shores of Mosquito Creek Lake, may be the most challenging time to find your new abode. Whatever time of year you look, allow yourself a month and consult regional and local newspapers, such as the Cortland News, as well as online resources. Check out the neighborhoods yourself, too, as some rentals will only be listed through signage at the site of the property.
Securing a Rental
When you're ready to find apartments, whether you're searching for two-bedroom apartments or a studio for rent, be sure to come ready to rent. With rental opportunities often tight in this pretty town, make sure your landlord can easily access your credit report and that you can provide bank statements, your ID and proof of employment, if you're asked to do so.
Neighborhoods in Cortland
Adjacent to Mosquito Reservoir and State Park, many neighborhoods in this small town border a portion of Mosquito Creek Lake.
Cortland City Center: Suburban in density, this neighborhood is where you'll find Walnut Run Golf Course and a variety of local specialty stores along Main Street, the heart of Cortland, not to mention the popular hang out Central City Bar and Grill. A portion of this area borders Mosquito Creek Lake. Rentals are tight here, as many properties are owner-occupied. Most rentals are single family homes and town homes, built between 1940 and 1999.
Klondike: This suburban neighborhood encompasses both sides of the southern end of Mosquito Creek Lake and offers many more rental opportunities in a community of both owners and renters. There are single-family homes and small apartment buildings here. Feeling hungry? Try Fabio's Italian for a treat.
Fowler: Away from the lake, and closer to Route 11 and the Youngstown Warren Regional Airport, Fowler has a rural feel. If you want more green space and larger lawns, this is your spot. Vacancy rates are a little higher here than elsewhere, so this is a great place to look for a home. Single-family homes and small apartment buildings are both located here.
Courting Life in Cortland
From a sawmill and a railroad depot, the village of Cortland took shape. The first major industry here was agricultural, with support for farming operations, such as a flour mill and canning factories, boosting growth in the area.
Perched in the heart of Trumbull County, Cortland has a strong recreational draw today, as the community has many neighborhoods that border Mosquito Creek Lake. The entire town is right next door to Mosquito Reservoir and State Park, where a swimming beach, camping and hiking are just one part of the charm of over 2,400 acres of woodlands and marshes. The lake itself is one of the largest in Ohio and includes a sandy beach. Hiking trails, camping -- there are yurts available for rental, too -- and idyllic picnic spots, all draw visitors far and wide. Bring your bathing suit and your fishing pole, and get ready to relax and enjoy. Of course, if you were planning on learning how to surf, that wouldn't be in Cortland.
The Grand River Wildlife Area and the Cooperation Station Dog Park, which includes a swimming area just for pups, are a part of the state park area.
In town, you'll find pretty Willow Park, where many community youth sports activities are held, and there's a skate park, a playground for little tykes, tennis, hockey and, yes, even pickleball courts.
Cortland is close to state highways 5 and 46 and State Route 11, which connects to Interstate 80 for easy travel throughout the state.
One of the charms of downtown Cortland is its pretty, tree-lined streets, complete with a clock tower. Shopping options include many boutiques and locally owned businesses, from clothing shops to gourmet foods.