Cottage Grove

If you are considering a move to Cottage Grove, Wisconsin, you are exploring one of Dane County’s most welcoming and fast growing suburban communities. Cottage Grove sits just east of Madison and combines small town charm with modern conveniences, beautiful parks, strong schools, and easy commuter access. It is a community where neighbors know each other, where families gather for local events, and where outdoor recreation is woven into everyday life.

Cottage Grove has expanded steadily over the past decade. New neighborhoods, parks, and businesses have added to the community’s appeal while preserving the peaceful and friendly atmosphere that long time residents value. Whether you are relocating for work, searching for great schools, or seeking more space and a quieter pace, Cottage Grove offers a lifestyle that feels relaxed, connected, and community-oriented.

Here are the five things every home buyer wants to know before moving to Cottage Grove, WI.

1. Lifestyle and Local Vibe

Cottage Grove offers a warm, friendly, suburban lifestyle with a strong sense of community. It has the feel of a classic Wisconsin town, yet it is close to everything Madison offers.

Who lives in Cottage Grove

Cottage Grove attracts:

• Professionals who work in Madison, Sun Prairie, or Fitchburg

• Couples who want quiet living without being far from city amenities

• Long time residents with strong community connections

• Retirees who enjoy slower paced living and easy outdoor access

The town has a balanced mix of newcomers and families who have lived here for generations, which creates a grounded and welcoming community atmosphere.

A quiet and comfortable suburban setting

Cottage Grove offers tree lined streets, well maintained parks, and neighborhoods that feel spacious. It is known for being clean, safe, and easy to navigate, which makes everyday life comfortable and predictable.

Community events and traditions

Residents enjoy many well loved events, including:

• Cottage Grove Fireman’s Festival

• Music in the Grove summer concerts

• Fall festivals and pumpkin events

• Local holiday parades

• Weekly farmers markets during warmer months

These events bring people together and create a strong sense of belonging.

Outdoor lifestyle and natural beauty

Cottage Grove is surrounded by natural landscapes, including rolling countryside, prairies, parks, and lakes only minutes away.

Outdoor favorites include:

• Glacial Drumlin State Trail, a paved trail perfect for long bike rides

• Community parks with playgrounds and picnic areas

• Nearby Lake Kegonsa for swimming, fishing, and boating

• Walking paths woven throughout neighborhoods

• Local golf courses

Recreation is built into the local lifestyle, making Cottage Grove a great option for people who enjoy being outside.

2. Schools & Education
Cottage Grove is served by the Monona Grove School District, providing a full range of public schooling options from early childhood through high school. Families moving to Cottage Grove often appreciate the district’s comprehensive programming, local school community focus, and access to higher-education institutions in the greater Madison area.

Public Schools
The Monona Grove School District (MGSD) serves students in Cottage Grove, Monona, and surrounding areas from 4K through 12th grade. The district emphasizes academic growth, student engagement, and community support across multiple schools. 

District Overview

• Number of Schools: 7 public schools including elementary, middle, and high school levels.

• Student Enrollment: ~3,696 students district-wide. 

• Student-Teacher Ratio: ~13:1 across the district.

Programs and Opportunities
The district provides a broad range of academic and enrichment programs, including:

• Core academics with preparation for college and career readiness

• Fine arts, music, theater, and athletic opportunities

• STEM and project-based learning activities

• Student clubs, leadership, and co-curricular programs

Recent publicly available district-level data:

• Overall District Rating (2023–24): 67.8 / Meets Expectations on the state accountability framework according to the DPI report card.

• Achievement Score (English Language Arts & Math, combined): 64.7 on the DPI priority area scale. 

• On-Track to Graduation Priority Area: 82.1 (measures progress toward graduation). 

• Graduation Score: 95.1 on the DPI on-track measure. 

• English Language Arts Achievement Score: 67.6 on DPI scale. 

• Mathematics Achievement Score: 61.7 on DPI scale. 

• Target Group Outcomes Score: 59.4 on DPI scale. 

Families can review curriculum options, enrollment boundaries, transportation information, and detailed state-reported performance data through MGSD and the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI).

Private & Charter Options
Cottage Grove and the immediate area offer a few private and alternative schooling choices. Each institution operates its own admissions process, tuition structure, and educational model:

W Koshkonong Lutheran School

• Private Lutheran school serving Kindergarten through 8th grade.

• Offers a small-community environment with faith-based instruction.

Local Preschool Options

• Early childhood programs such as Windsor Avenue KinderCare serve preschool and early learning needs.

• These programs vary by age range and schedule and can provide readiness support before entering public 4K.

Families can contact each private school directly for curriculum details, admissions information, and program specifics.

Higher Education
While Cottage Grove does not have a major university within village limits, residents have convenient access to several higher-education institutions in the broader region:

Madison College (MATC)
Public technical college offering certificates, diplomas, and associate degrees, with pathways to transfer, workforce training, adult education, and flexible learning options.

Edgewood University
Private four-year university with a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, noted for smaller class sizes and a personalized learning experience.

University of Wisconsin–Madison (UW–Madison)
Large public research university offering extensive undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs, along with research, cultural events, arts, and athletic resources.

Regional Technical & Community College Options
Other nearby institutions provide trade, workforce, certificate, continuing-education, and adult learner programs, supporting non-traditional students and career advancement opportunities.

These institutions contribute to the region’s educational resources, workforce development, and community engagement.

How Education Influences Real Estate
Education options are an important factor for many homebuyers, and proximity to schools or learning resources can shape how people consider neighborhoods in Cottage Grove due to:

• Access to a cohesive public school district with multiple campuses serving all grades

• Diverse academic, arts, athletics, and enrichment opportunities within MGSD

• Availability of private and alternative instructional options in the village

• Easy access to regional higher-education institutions such as Madison College, Edgewood University, and UW–Madison

3. Real Estate Market and Home Styles

Cottage Grove offers a wide variety of home styles, ranging from charming older houses to brand new developments. The community has seen significant residential growth, yet it still retains a comfortable suburban feel with open spaces and quiet streets.

Home styles you can expect

• New construction with modern layouts and energy efficient features

• Two story homes in growing subdivisions

• Ranch homes popular among both families and retirees

• Condos and townhomes with low maintenance living

• Split level and mid century homes in established areas

• Acreage properties on the edges of town for added privacy

Cottage Grove is ideal for buyers who want choice, space, and a newer suburban feel.

Price ranges

Pricing varies depending on condition, neighborhood, and school boundaries, but general ranges include:

• Condos and townhomes: $240,000 to $420,000

• Single family homes: $350,000 to $750,000

• New construction: $500,000 to $900,000

• Acreage or luxury homes: $900,000 and above

Many home buyers feel they get more value here compared to homes closer to downtown Madison.

Is it a buyers market or a sellers market?

Cottage Grove generally leans toward a sellers market, especially for homes under $600,000. Updated homes and newer builds tend to sell quickly. Buyers looking for specific neighborhoods or school zones may need to move fast when new listings appear.

Popular neighborhoods

Well known residential areas include:

• Westlawn Estates

• Quarry Ridge

• Foxboro

• Northlawn

• The Villages of Cottage Grove

• Taylor Prairie area

• Newer developments along County Highway N

Each neighborhood offers its own atmosphere, amenities, and home styles.

4. Commute and Connectivity

Cottage Grove is in an excellent location for commuters. Residents enjoy quick access to Madison and surrounding communities while living in a quieter suburban setting.

Driving times

Typical commute times include:

• Cottage Grove to Downtown Madison: approximately 15 to 20 minutes

• Cottage Grove to UW Madison: approximately 18 to 25 minutes

• Cottage Grove to East Madison: approximately 10 minutes

• Cottage Grove to Sun Prairie: approximately 12 to 15 minutes

• Cottage Grove to Stoughton: approximately 12 to 18 minutes

• Cottage Grove to Dane County Regional Airport: approximately 20 minutes

These short, predictable drive times are a major benefit for buyers.

Main routes

Cottage Grove is connected through:

• Interstate 94

• Highway N

• Highway 12 and 18 via the Beltline

• Cottage Grove Road into Madison

This network makes travel convenient in all directions.

Public transit and biking

Although Cottage Grove does not have its own major bus system, nearby transit centers and park and ride locations provide access to regional routes. The Glacial Drumlin Trail also makes biking into Madison possible for active commuters.

Daily conveniences

Residents enjoy:

• Multiple grocery and retail options

• Pharmacies and medical clinics

• Local shops and services

• Coffee shops and dining spots

• Fitness centers and wellness studios

• Parks, trails, and recreation centers

Life in Cottage Grove is simple, accessible, and easy to manage

5. Things To Do and Local Hot Spots

Cottage Grove offers a relaxed mix of dining, recreation, local events, and quick access to nearby attractions. It has the peacefulness of a small town with plenty of ways to stay busy.

Restaurants and cafes locals enjoy

Popular local spots include:

• 1855 Saloon and Grill for steakhouse favorites

• Oakstone for pizza, sports, and dining

• Olde Town Coffee House for breakfast and local charm

• BB Jack’s Cottage Grove for casual meals and entertainment

• Door Creek Cafe near the golf course

• Gyro House for Mediterranean takeout

New restaurants continue to open as the community grows.

Parks, trails, and outdoor recreation

Outdoor lovers will enjoy:

• Glacial Drumlin State Trail for biking and long walks

• Bakken Park with sports fields and playgrounds

• Athens Park for walking trails and green space

• Nearby Lake Kegonsa for swimming and boating

• Parks woven throughout neighborhoods

• Multiple golf courses within minutes

Cottage Grove is perfect for people who want easy access to outdoor recreation.

Entertainment and activities

Residents enjoy:

• Music in the Grove concerts in summer

• Local farmers markets

• Youth sports leagues

• Seasonal festivals

• Access to Madison’s theaters, museums, and events only minutes away

Hidden gems and local favorites

• Take a scenic bike ride along the Glacial Drumlin Trail.

• Grab breakfast or a coffee at Olde Town Coffee House.

• Enjoy a peaceful walk through Bakken Park.

• Spend an evening at Lake Kegonsa for sunset views.

• Visit Door County style shops and local makers around the village center.

These experiences help define Cottage Grove’s warm and inviting character.

Key Takeaways

Yes. Cottage Grove is a wonderful place to call home. It offers peaceful suburban living, strong schools, newer neighborhoods, beautiful parks, and convenient access to Madison. The community feels safe, friendly, and community-oriented. Many residents move here planning to stay for years because the lifestyle is so balanced and comfortable.

Cottage Grove is ideal for buyers who want space, community, and convenience all in one place.