Why Live in Cottage Grove
Cottage Grove, Oregon, located 20 miles south of Eugene, is a small city with a population of about 10,000. Despite its city classification, Cottage Grove has a small-town feel, characterized by its Main Street corridor featuring local restaurants, colorful murals, and parks. The picturesque environment has attracted movie producers, with scenes from "Stand By Me" and "Animal House" filmed here. The downtown area includes Stacy’s Covered Bridge Restaurant, offering American cuisine in a historic setting, and global eateries like Oba Ramen and Lamona Mexican. The eclectic mix of shops includes bicycle stores, vintage bookshops, and antique furniture stores. Housing options range from modest bungalows and ranch-style homes near the town center to newer townhouses and single-family homes on the outskirts. Cottage Grove High School has a high rating, providing quality education to local students. The city manages about two dozen parks, including Bohemia Park with its playground, amphitheater, and gardens, and Colner Park, popular for pickleball and tennis. The Row River Trail offers a scenic 16-mile hike, following the path featured in "Stand By Me." For those seeking things to do, Cottage Grove provides a blend of outdoor activities, dining, and shopping experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent a home in Cottage Grove, OR?
The median rent for a home in Cottage Grove, OR is $1,550 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of September 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while single-family homes and townhouses are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in Cottage Grove, OR?
To comfortably afford the median rent in Cottage Grove, OR, a household needs to earn roughly $62,000 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $1,550 per month in Cottage Grove, OR, renters typically need to show $4,650 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in Cottage Grove, OR?
In Cottage Grove, OR, the price-to-rent ratio is 20.8, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.
What neighborhoods in Cottage Grove, OR are best for renting a home?
The best neighborhood for renting in Cottage Grove, OR depends on your priorities: commute, walkability, budget, and lifestyle all play a role. Popular areas for renting a home include
Southeast Eugene,
Crest Drive,
Amazon,
Laurel Hill and
Friendly, each with its own character and price range.
There are currently 4 homes available for rent in Cottage Grove, OR. The median rent is $1,550 per month, with single-family homes renting at $1,550, townhouses at $1,895 and condos at $1,525.
Number of Homes for Rent
4
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Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,550
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Median Townhouse Rent
$1,895
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