2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Forest Lake, MN vs Cottage Grove, MN

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Highlights
Are people in Cottage Grove older or younger than people in Forest Lake?
- The Median Age in Cottage Grove is 2.3 years younger than in Forest Lake.

Are housing costs cheaper in Cottage Grove or Forest Lake?
- Cottage Grove housing costs are 5.1% less expensive than Forest Lake housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Cottage Grove or Forest Lake?
- The average commute for residents of Cottage Grove is 3.1 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Forest Lake.

Things to do in Forest Lake?
Forest Lake is located in Washington County Minnesota with an estimated population around 19,100 people as of 2020. The area provides plenty amenities such as shopping malls offering small household items all the way up to electronic items ideal for those looking for retail therapy plus there are several restaurants ranging from casual cafes to luxury dining venues offering something special every day besides that there are many outdoor activities available here giving folks yet another opportunity to take part in some genuine sightseeing experience .

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

 Forest Lake, MNCottage Grove, MNUnited States
 Population  Unlock38,582329,725,481
 Median Income$87,753  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock36.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$379,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock3.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time28.17  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Forest Lake    0 Reviews

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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

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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

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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

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