Let the numbers do the talking.
Appleton, WI vs Cottage Grove, WI
Appleton, WI vs Cottage Grove, WI: What the data shows
Appleton, WI is in Appleton, WI while Cottage Grove, WI is in Cottage Grove, WI — both in the same state. On home prices, Appleton, WI is the more affordable option at $182,600 median — $157,400 less than Cottage Grove, WI's $340,000. WYLT rates Appleton, WI as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Cottage Grove, WI as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots.
Cottage Grove, WI has the stronger safety profile of the two. Appleton, WI has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Cottage Grove, WI has Low violent crime and Low property crime. On environmental risk, Appleton, WI has Low flood risk and Cottage Grove, WI has Low flood risk.
Cottage Grove, WI is the more walkable neighborhood. Appleton, WI scores 4/100 (car-dependent) versus Cottage Grove, WI's 14/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Appleton, WI has the higher school rating — Appleton, WI rates 7/10 and Cottage Grove, WI rates 6.8/10.
| Category | Appleton, WI | Cottage Grove, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Settle here |
| Median Price | $183K ✓ Lower price | $340K |
| Median Rent | $910 ✓ Lower rent | $1K |
| Median Income | $64K | $73K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Low | Low |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 4/100 | 14/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | 37/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | N/A ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 45 min | N/A |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | A ✓ Safer |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Low ✓ Lower risk |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 7/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.8/10 |
| Best for | Families with childrenSeniors looking for a quiet townRemote workers needing affordable housing | familieshomeownersthose who value a quiet lifestyle |
Bottom line
If you're a family with children, you'll find both areas suitable but Cottage Grove's highly-rated schools and low crime rates make it a better choice. Appleton may be a better option if you're a remote worker on a budget or looking for an affordable place to live, but its lack of nightlife and public transit may be a drawback. In general, Cottage Grove is a better fit for most people looking for a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood.
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