I’m from Ithaca and has to travel to Binghamton - so through Owego - my whole life.

45 minutes is too far and that particular drive is to precarious for the drive from Ithaca. Especially since Ithaca has a very odd “plow schedule” - they hit all hospital and bus routes first, then major roads leaving town, then in town. You mentioned you want to live in Ithaca where you can walk, not drive - that cost of living is insane. Middle of Ithaca - I.e. walkable to downtown is insanely expensive. Mix that with food costs and your gas bill driving over 2 hours every day (adding in potential traffic) - it’s going to be a lot.

My sons grandmother lived in Montour Falls (45 or so minutes away in a different direction) but worked in Ithaca and if she didn’t own her house and her car she would never been able to pay for the commute.