2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Cottage Grove, MN vs Des Moines, IA

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Cottage Grove?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 2.1 years younger than in Cottage Grove.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Cottage Grove?
- Des Moines housing costs are 51.2% less expensive than Cottage Grove housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Cottage Grove?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 6.3 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Cottage Grove.

Things to do in Cottage Grove?
Cottage Grove, Minnesota is found in Washington county offering its citizens access to parks including Cottage Grove Ravine Regional Park while also having shopping options at Marketplace at Town Center plus multiple restaurants including Old Country Buffet

Things to do in Des Moines?
Des Moines, Iowa is an exciting city full of possibilities for those who want to experience something new. Nature lovers can explore the trails at Water Works Park and admire the views of downtown from the Des Moines Riverwalk. History buffs can visit the State Capitol Building or learn more about local culture at the African American Museum of Iowa and Salisbury House & Garden. Arts enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the many galleries in town while foodies can find delicious eats at a variety of restaurants in the area. Shopping fans will love browsing through Jordan Creek Town Center or Valley West Mall. With its wide selection of attractions, Des Moines is an absolute must-visit destination!

 Cottage Grove, MNDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$108,887  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$360,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time25.1  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Cottage Grove    3 Reviews

After moving to Cottage Grove, MN (near the Twin Cities) nine years ago, I think the city has improved (its been an uphill battle), but the city is cheap on quality of  More

   |    Reply

If you're from the warmer climates, avoid MN in the winter, too cold for a southern boy. Summers are great, warm & not humid at all. Plenty of lakes, rivers, & trails  More

   |    Reply

Over 19 years ago

Minnesotans are friendly and take time to enjoy the outdoors during the summer months. The wonderful summers are greatly appreciated and many companies offer summer  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Cottage Grove

Reviews for Des Moines    53 Reviews

Des Moines is a ok and pretty quiet place but as a teen it could be dramatic because Des Moines do have is fair or violents places to avoid in Des Moines would be the  More

   |    Reply

Dude · 
Over 5 years ago

This city is violent, there are too many gangs especially on the north  More

   |    Reply

Over 6 years ago

Good for the old that like slow pace and cheap buffets. Also good for non-descript mid-westerners that don't like a lot of action. No nightlife or mountains to hike  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Des Moines


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.