Ithaca is a vibrant, family-friendly community, home to scholars, artists, farming, and the scenic natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region. The spectacular changing seasons are punctuated by year-round festivals enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Outdoor activities abound, including boating, hiking, biking, skiing, winetasting, and exploring miles of picturesque back roads. Enjoy a wealth of local arts, dining, theater, music and cinema. The cities of Syracuse and Binghamton are less than an hour’s drive away, and New York City, Philadelphia, and Toronto are an easy weekend getaway. Take a closer look at why so many people say “Ithaca is Gorges!”

• Liveinithaca.org: A hub of resources for new arrivals to the Ithaca area, including information about area housing, schools, community, and more.
• Relocation Guide - Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce
  • Diverse Living in Ithaca: Cornell-produced guide featuring resources that may interest diverse faculty and staff.
  • Community Links

• Visit the Ithaca campus
• Visit Ithaca
• Information for International Academic Staff
• Information partners/spouses seeking employment in the Ithaca area (pdf)
• Cornell Dual Career Program:  offers job search information and assistance to dual career spouses or partners.

COMMUTING & MAPS

Many Cornell University employees commute from towns and cities beyond Ithaca. Syracuse, Binghamton, Cortland, and Corning are more populated options; if you prefer the countryside, rural areas include towns and villages such as Trumansburg, Danby, Brooktondale, Dryden, Newfield, and Groton. There are numerous options for commuters, including rideshares, carpooling, and bus service – visit Transportation Benefits for more details.

• Living in Tompkins County
• Tompkins County Maps

RESOURCES FOR FAMILIES

Cornell is a family-friendly workplace, and provides a wealth of services to help you transition and support your entire family.

• Parenting: Take a look at programs and resources available to Cornell families, including support groups, workshops, resources for children with special needs, adoption, childcare, and financial assistance.

• Elder Care: Cornell provides a Dependent Care Resource & Referral Service to staff, faculty, students, and retirees, who can assist caregivers with finding the support and assistance they need.