Cottage Grove, MN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
40,992
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$120,791/yr
-0.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,487
3.2% year-over-year change

Cottage Grove population

How many people live in Cottage Grove

Cottage Grove is home to 40,992 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.5% of Cottage Grove locals are male, and 50.5% are female.

Total population
40,992
2.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.5%
20,279
Female
50.5%
20,713
Value Percent YoY change
Male 20,279 49.5% 0.4%
Female 20,713 50.5% 4.0%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Cottage Grove is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.2% are children under 15, then 13% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 29.3% of the population, while another 22.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 14% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.2%
15 to 24
13%
25 to 44
29.3%
45 to 64
22.5%
Over 65
14%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,668 21.2% -2.8%
15 to 24 5,350 13% 13.3%
25 to 44 12,004 29.3% 2.0%
45 to 64 9,210 22.5% -0.2%
Over 65 5,760 14% 4.9%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Cottage Grove, 90.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 6.4% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 74.4% of locals are Caucasian, 6.6% are African American and 7.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
6.4%
Non-citizens
2.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 37,189 90.7% 1.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,633 6.4% 8.2%
Non-citizens 1,170 2.8% 24.6%
Racial breakdown
White
74.4%
Black or African American
6.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
7.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.1%
Other
2.5%
Value Percent
White 30,486 74.4%
Black or African American 2,684 6.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 27 0.1%
Asian 3,013 7.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 14 0%
Two or more races 3,726 9.1%
Other 1,042 2.5%

Households in Cottage Grove

A peek inside Cottage Grove households

Cottage Grove has 14,395 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 77.7% are families, while the remaining 22.3% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
14,395
3.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
3,206
Family households
11,189
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,206 22.3% 13.1%
Family households 11,189 77.7% 1.3%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Cottage Grove

The housing landscape of Cottage Grove

Cottage Grove's housing consists of 14,487 units, with 78.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 13.1% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 0.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,487
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,310 78.1%
1 unit, attached 1,894 13.1%
2 units 97 0.7%
3 or 4 units 132 0.9%
5 to 9 units 238 1.6%
10 to 19 units 172 1.2%
20 to 49 units 75 0.5%
50 or more units 514 3.6%
Mobile home 55 0.4%
Homes built since 2020
1,073
80.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cottage Grove

In Cottage Grove, the median construction year is 1990. About 1.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 7.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 228 1.6% 58.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 150 1% 20.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 979 6.8% -25.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,900 13.1% 3.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,129 14.7% 0.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,760 12.2% -0.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,778 19.2% -4.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,150 14.8% 4.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,340 9.2% 15.2%
Built in 2020 or later 1,073 7.4% 80.9%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Cottage Grove occupancy rates

Out of the 14,395 occupied housing units in Cottage Grove, 88.2% are owner-occupied, while 11.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 0.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
14,395
3.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,699
Owner occupied
12,696
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,699 11.8% 5.6%
Owner occupied 12,696 88.2% 3.5%
Unoccupied housing units
0.6%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Cottage Grove housing costs

Housing costs in Cottage Grove come to a median of $1,857 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,783.

Median housing costs per month
$1,857/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Cottage Grove
$1,783/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Cottage Grove

Cottage Grove education at a glance

About 29.2% of the population in Cottage Grove went to high school, while 19.3% pursued college studies. Another 11.2% earned an associate degree and 27.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.9% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 476 1.6% -19.7%
High school diploma 8,942 29.2% 8.0%
College diploma 5,892 19.3% -4.5%
Associate degree 3,430 11.2% -0.8%
Bachelor's degree 8,513 27.8% 8.2%
Graduate degree 3,330 10.9% 7.4%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Cottage Grove

How much people earn in Cottage Grove

The average annual household income in Cottage Grove was $141,179 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $120,791, reflecting a -0.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cottage Grove
$141,179/year
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cottage Grove
$120,791/year
-0.5% year-over-year change

Cottage Grove income by age

In Cottage Grove, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $131,100. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $148,503 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $120,901, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $79,332 in earnings. Overall, 95.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $120,901 -1.6%
25 - 44 $131,100 1.1%
45 - 64 $148,503 3.7%
Over 65 $79,332 3.1%
Above poverty level
38,670
Below poverty level
1,666
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 38,670 95.9% 2.1%
Below poverty level 1,666 4.1% 3.0%

Average renter income in Cottage Grove

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Cottage Grove, their median household income was $74,167 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 28.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$74,167
Rent-to-income ratio
28.8%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Cottage Grove

Workforce and job types in Cottage Grove

The job market in Cottage Grove is powered by 22,224 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 80.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 19.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.6% run their own businesses, 66.5% are employed by private companies, and 16.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
22,224
3.9% year-over-year change
White collar
17,851
Blue collar
4,373
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 17,851 80.3% 4.8%
Blue collar 4,373 19.7% 0.7%
Employer type
Self employees
5.6%
Private companies
66.5%
Governmental workers
16.5%
Not for profit companies
11.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,247 5.6% 0.1%
Private companies 14,783 66.5% 5.9%
Governmental workers 3,664 16.5% 1.3%
Not for profit companies 2,530 11.4% -1.4%
Unemployment rate
3.7%
9.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cottage Grove stands at 3.7%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Cottage Grove

How people get around in Cottage Grove

In Cottage Grove, the average commute time is 24 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 77.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
24 min
-2.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 16,913 77.4% 2.5%
Bus or trolleybus 75 0.3% -54.5%
Motorcycle 6 0% 20.0%
Walk 111 0.5% -1.8%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Cottage Grove by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
55016 40,695 14,283 $120,715 $141,247
55033 29,674 11,708 $103,988 $118,889

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FAQs about Cottage Grove demographics 

What is the total population of Cottage Grove?

Cottage Grove has a total population of 40,992 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +2.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cottage Grove?

The gender ratio in Cottage Grove is as follows:
  • 49.5% males (20,279 residents)
  • 50.5% females (20,713 residents)

What is the median age in Cottage Grove?

The median age in Cottage Grove is 36.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Cottage Grove?

The age distribution in Cottage Grove is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.2% (8,668 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13% (5,350 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 29.3% (12,004 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.5% (9,210 residents)
  • Over 65: 14% (5,760 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cottage Grove?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cottage Grove is as follows:
  • White: 74.4% (30,486 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.6% (2,684 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (27 residents)
  • Asian: 7.4% (3,013 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (14 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.1% (3,726 residents)
  • Other: 2.5% (1,042 residents)

What percentage of the population in Cottage Grove are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.7% of the population in Cottage Grove.

How many housing units are there in Cottage Grove?

There are 14,487 housing units in Cottage Grove, reflecting a +3.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Cottage Grove and what is the average household size?

Cottage Grove has a total of 14,395 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cottage Grove?

Cottage Grove has a median household income of $120,791, representing a -0.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Cottage Grove?

The employment rate is 96.3% in Cottage Grove, with a workforce of 22,224 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 80.3% (17,851 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 19.7% (4,373 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.6% (1,247 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.5% (14,783 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.5% (3,664 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11.4% (2,530 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025