Situated north of the Mississippi River, Cottage Grove is known for its dairy farming and strawberry fields near the Minnesota-Wisconsin border. The city attracts Twin City commuters with its suburban feel, an acclaimed school district and a 15-minute drive to and from St. Paul. Cottage Grove's history dates back to the early 19th century when settlers were drawn to the area for its verdant soil along the Mississippi River, resulting in a rich farming and grain milling economy. Officially established as a city in 1974, railroad and manufacturing developments led to continued growth well into the early 2000s. Today, the city has over 40,000 residents and Fortune 500 companies like 3M, Renewal by Andersen and Up North Plastics, provide jobs to many in the area. Shopping centers and downtown entertainment options are also plentiful and surround the residential areas north of U.S. Route 10, while a few industrial pockets are separated to the south. “Cottage Grove has restaurants, shops and a great school system,” says Jessica Fisher, Realtor with Re/Max Professionals. “And its proximity to the Twin Cities Metro is desirable for commuters.” Despite its continued growth, the city takes pride in its traditions and maintains a community-oriented feel through local events like the annual Strawberry Fest.
The mighty Mississippi River borders the west side of Cottage Grove.
Up North Plastics is a large company in Cottage Grove where many residents work.
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Strong market with pockets of new construction
Many move to Cottage Grove for the area's A-rated school district and ample housing options. “The housing market in Cottage Grove is strong,” says Fisher, who has over 6 years of experience selling in the area. “It has a great variety of housing for every phase of life. We have several new developments being built, so those who want to build their own home find our community appealing.” With a median sales price of $400,000, homes here are generally more affordable than the average property in the Minneapolis Metro Area. Prices range from as low as $150,000 for a one-bedroom townhouse to upwards of $1 million for a five-bedroom newly constructed Traditional. Cottage Grove's northside offers most of the housing opportunities in the city, with these developments often centered around neighborhood parks. New construction options are found in subdivisions like Woodward Ponds, a townhouse community; or in Calarosa which is primarily Craftsman and one-level villa houses. Homes along the Mississippi River do not sell for the million-dollar premiums like some other waterside communities, instead, houses sell between $400,000 and $825,000.
New traditional townhomes in a variety of styles are popping up in Cottage Grove.
Traditional homes with craftsman influences make up a majority of the homes in Cottage Grove.
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Education at SoWashCo Schools
Cottage Grove's families are zoned for South Washington County Schools (SoWashCo Schools), and serves over 18,000 students, making it the sixth-largest district in Minnesota. Earning an overall A-minus rating from the review site Niche, students within the SoWashCo district may attend one of 16 elementary schools, four middle schools, three high schools, or two non-traditional high schools. The district also features early learning programs for children up to five years old. SoWashCo’s high schools offer AP courses, and most students attend Park High School, which earns a B-minus from Niche and offers an IB program for students to enroll. Private options like Hope Christian Academy and Pine Harbor Christian Academy are also available nearby.
Cottage Grove students can begin their education at Hillside Elementary.
Cottage Grove Middle School is conveniently located in Cottage Grove, Minnesota.
Park High School in Cottage Grove offers AP courses and an IB program.
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Seasonal activities and Cottage Grove Regional Park
Cottage Grove has 38 neighborhood parks totaling 1,500 acres of city-owned green spaces to enjoy. The city experiences all four seasons, with mild summers and cold winters, which average 48 inches of snow per year. Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park spans over 500 acres and is equipped for year-round outdoor recreation. It has a kayak launch and a fishing pier that is popular during the warmer months, and trails for snowmobiles and cross-country skiing come winter. Kingston Park has soccer fields, basketball courts, and tennis courts where athletes can train and compete. The Cottage Grove Ice Arena hosts winter sports year-round and offers open skate times for the public. The arena also hosts figure skating exhibitions and hockey games in partnership with SoWashCo Schools. The city also maintains eight outdoor ice rinks complete with warming houses where skaters can take breaks from the chilling temperatures between games. The public River Oaks Golf Course has an 18-hole layout with 57 sand bunkers and three ponds. It offers seasonal package deals and individual weekday passes for a fee.
River Oaks Golf Course is an 18-hole golf course located south of Cottage Grove.
The Cottage Grove Ice Arena hosts hockey games of all levels throughout the year.
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The annual Strawberry Fest
In June, the city hosts the annual Strawberry Fest at Kingston Park. This four-day event celebrates Cottage Grove’s origins as an agricultural community filled with strawberry fields. The event features live music, food trucks, a parade and a fireworks display. “There’s a bean bag tossing tournament, a car show, a doggie dash, a pet show, a pie-eating contest and a top chef contest, so a lot of people bring in their recipes – and, of course, it has to include strawberries,” says Julie Prior Miller, the Cottage Grove marketing and communications specialist. “Last year, we had estimates of about 20,000 to 25,000 people.” It has been, and continues to be, a long-standing tradition for over 40 years.
Shopping hubs along Voyageur Highway
Most residents shop along Voyageur Highway, also known as U.S. Route 10, for everyday essentials. This hub features big box stores like Target, as well as grocery stores like Cub Foods. Local eateries and fast-food dining options are centralized and easily accessible. North of the city, the shopping area along 80th Street offers additional chain restaurants and a Hy-Vee grocery store.
Cub Foods is a popular grocery destination for those who live on the south side of Cottage Grove
Cottage Grove has a large shopping center off the 80th St exit that features, a HyVee.
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Traversing the Twin Cities on Route 10
U.S. Route 10 cuts diagonally across Cottage Grove, connecting residents to neighboring areas like Hastings and the Twin Cities. The Metro Transit bus provides public rides from the Cottage Grove Park & Ride Station along Point Douglas Road. When traveling further outside the community, the Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport is 17 miles away. For healthcare, the Compcare Urgent Care & Occupational Medicine facility is located along 80th Street, while United Hospital is 10 miles south in neighboring Hastings.
Crime and contamination clean-up
On average, Cottage Grove experiences lower crime rates than St. Paul. In 2023, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, which oversees Cottage Grove, reported 30 violent crimes per 100,000 people. In recent years, some residents have experienced issues with groundwater contamination from neighboring industrial companies. A new water treatment plant to combat the release of PFAS, or “forever chemicals," is being constructed near Cottage Grove and is expected to be completed in 2025.
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Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
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GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Cottage Grove, MN sell after 36 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Cottage Grove, MN over the last 12 months is $413,000, up 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome to your dream home! This beautifully maintained 5-bedroom, 3-bath residence offers spacious living for your family, with modern finishes and an inviting atmosphere throughout. Imagine cozy evenings in the expansive living area, cooking gourmet meals in the fully equipped kitchen, and enjoying peaceful mornings in your private backyard oasis. Why This Home Stands Out:Spacious &
Our newest model-under construction. Welcome to Cardinal Reserve, where quality craftsmanship meets effortless living. Main-level living with a fully finished lower level, perfect for hosting guests, entertaining or creating additional living space to fit your lifestyle. On a quiet cul-de-sac, this home provides both privacy and a peaceful setting, while still being conveniently located near
Downsizing at its finest! Washer/Dryer allowance included! This custom-built one-level home by Cardinal offers high-end finishes, including custom cabinetry, solid-core doors, Andersen 400 Series windows, braced shelving, and a screened porch. Perfect for a low-maintenance, lock-and-leave lifestyle in a well-kept association. Premier wooded lot over looking trees with walkout basement. We're open
Move-in ready and better than new! Built in 2023, this beautifully maintained home offers modern finishes, a bright and open layout, and flexible living spaces designed to fit today's lifestyle. Enjoy peaceful pond views, a spacious owner's suite, and room to work, play, entertain or simply relax.Unlike many new construction homes, the landscaping is already complete, and appliances and
Wants: a fenced back yard, park like views from your back deck, enough interior living spaces to spread out or entertain, wood burning fireplace to snuggle up in front of on nights where the chill has set in through your winter coat and a blanket just isn't cutting it, a new roof, new water heater, new water softener, newer furnace, new driveway, 4 bedrooms on one level, a guest room space far
This home is better than building new it has everything done for you just turn the key and you are home.Features include gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, newer stainless steel appliances, stunningwood cabinetry and a large walk-in pantry. Enjoy the convenient mudroom with built in storage. Relax bythe main floor fireplace in the huge living room. All 4 bedrooms with walk-in
Nestled on a picturesque, wooded corner lot in desirable Cottage Grove, this exceptional 4-bedroom, 2-bath, 3-level split combines privacy, comfort, and versatile living spaces with outstanding outdoor enjoyment. A beautifully manicured lawn, mature trees, colorful landscaping, and established perennial gardens create impressive curb appeal from the moment you arrive. The backyard is a private
This home features 4 bedrooms conveniently located on upper level. 4 bathrooms, 2 full baths in the upper level, 1/2 bath on main and a 3/4 on the lower level. Your main floor features a sitting room, a dining room, updated eat in kitchen, with breakfast bar. In your eat in kitchen there are sliding glass doors that lead out to your large deck that overlooks your fenced in yard. A cozy living
Come and see the potential of this mid century rambler with 3 bedrooms and a full bath on the main level.Previously updated vinyl windows and siding. Options avail, hardwood floors under the vinyl plankflooring. Time to update the kitchen to your personal taste, refinish the basement to build equity.Location is everything with this property being directly across the street from the
This home is located within South Washington County School District 833 and is currently assigned to Cottage Grove Elementary School, Oltman Middle School, and East Ridge High School.Welcome to 6670 Pine Arbor Boulevard S in the highly desirable Hinton Woods community of Cottage Grove located within walking distance of Cottage Grove Elementary! This stunning 2023-built “Hudson” floor plan
Build your custom villa home with Cardinal Homebuilders! We have lots available to build your dream home! Choose your own finishes and design elements to create a home that fits your style! Be in by this fall. For more info and to tour our model home, visit us at 9160 62nd St S in Cardinal Reserve. We're open Saturdays & Sundays from 12PM to 3PM. Photos are for illustrative purposes only
This new two-story home showcases an appealing contemporary design. At the heart of the first floor is the Great Room, which connects in an open-plan layout with the dining room and modern kitchen. A secluded office provides privacy, and a mudroom offers convenience. The second floor hosts a centrally situated loft and four bedrooms including a spacious owner’s suite with a luxe bathroom and
Stunning two-story home in the highly sought-after East Ridge High School district! This popular floor plan offers the perfect blend of style, space, and modern convenience. Step into a bright, open layout filled with natural light—ideal for everyday living and entertaining. The gourmet kitchen with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a large center island is the heart of the
Move right into this beautifully renovated rambler nestled in a peaceful Cottage Grove neighborhood while still being conveniently close to shopping, dining, parks, schools, and easy freeway access. Situated on a large corner lot, this home offers the perfect blend of modern updates, comfortable living, and everyday convenience. Featuring 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, the home has been completely
Perfect location for Carefree Living Villas by Michael Lee Homes. Well thought out plans withmain level living, finished lower level and 3 car garage. This doesn't feel like downsizing. It feels like just the right size. Great homesite backing to neighborhood out lot creates separation andprivacy. Main level features 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Primary walk-in closet. Primary
Welcome to The Aurilla, where local charm meets sophistication. Brand new and ready to redefine the way you see upscale living, our pet-friendly apartments in Cottage Grove, MN. Discover our collection of stylish one, two, or three-bedroom apartments and embrace the numerous amenities and impeccable services that come attached to our premium community.
ReNew at the Grove is the perfect place to call home in Cottage Grove, where you're minutes from quality schools, close to grocery shopping at Cub Foods and Aldi, surrounded by local retail along Highway 61, and ideally positioned near major employers including 3M in Woodbury, HealthPartners, and the growing business corridor in the East Metro area. Your new home features spacious 1, 2, and 3-bed
Grove80 Apartments offers studio, alcove, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments to fit your lifestyle needs. All of our apartments feature the latest, unparalleled features and amenities that deliver an exceptional living experience in Cottage Grove, MN. Escape from the daily grind to your own spacious and pet-friendly home designed with open concept floor plans to provide privacy, comfort, and
The Groves is an affordable apartment community offering 3 bedroom units in Cottage Grove, MN. Features include central a/c, washer and dryer included, playground, dishwasher and each unit has an attached shared garage. Located off Highway 61 and 80th Street, two blocks from the Cottage Grove Library, an elementary school, and just minutes from a variety of restaurants and other entertainment.
Lease this home and get more from Invitation Homes professional property management. This home comes fully loaded with quality amenities, must-have services, high-end tech and ProCare® professional maintenance. Your estimated total monthly payment is $2709.95. That covers your base rent, $2575.00 + our required services designed to make your life easier: Internet & Media ($85), Smart Home with
Property Id: 2095708Two bedroom, 1 bathroom split level townhouse in Cottage Grove, available July 1. Eat in kitchen, large living area with patio doors and deck. Large 2 car garage, detached, with a private enclosed courtyard in between. In unit washer/dryer hookups (washer/dryer not provided), central air. Walking distance to Cub, Target, Aldi, Armstrong Elementary. $1600/month + tenant
This two old, newly constructed two-story home boasts a striking design, featuring an expansive front porch that seamlessly transitions into a spacious foyer. The main level is characterized by an open layout, adorned with luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring throughout, extending from the foyer through the living room into the combined kitchen/dining area. Adding to the cozy atmosphere, a fireplace
OPEN HOUSE - June 13th at 1:00 - 2:30pm (No private showings) KEY FEATURES Year Built: 2002 Sq. Footage: 1,500+ Square Feet Bedrooms: 2 Beds Bathrooms: 2 Baths Parking: 2 Car Garage with shelving Lease Duration: 1 Year (See Details Below) Security Deposit: $1,850 Pets Policy: NO PETS Allowed Smoking Policy: NO SMOKING Allowed
Nicely updated four bed two bath home, hardwood floors, new carpet, new appliances, large entry way, fenced yard, washer and dryer in unit, walking distance to restaurants and parks. Two car attached garage, twelve month lease preferred. First month and deposit due at move in.
Tony KhambataRE/MAX Professionals
$2,995 per month
Beautiful 4-Bedroom Home with Modern Finishes & 2 Car Garage!
This beautiful 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom, two-story home offers 2,323 square feet of thoughtfully designed living space, blending comfort with modern style. The open-concept layout creates a natural flow throughout the main level, ideal for both everyday living and entertaining.The kitchen is equipped with stainless steel appliances, a spacious island, and sleek quartz countertops, making it
Convenient location to highways, amenities of both Cottage Grove and Woodbury. 3-level Townhome with attached garage. 2 BR plus den. 2 Bath. 2-car garage. Newer kitchen appliances, washer, dryer, and water softener. Home was updated in 2022. Family room has gas fireplace. Private balcony. Close to elementary and middle, and high schools. Water, sewer, and garbage service furnished by the Assn. No
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