Situated in southwestern Minnesota, Cottonwood County is a largely agricultural area filled with open prairies, wind farms, and small lakes. Created in 1857 and organized in 1870, it was named for the Cottonwood River that runs through it. The county seat is Windom, the largest town and service center, followed by Mountain Lake, Bingham Lake, Jeffers, and Westbrook. The local economy revolves around crop farming, livestock, and light manufacturing. Housing is characterized by one-story ranch homes, renovated farmhouses, and older Victorian-era houses in small towns. It is predominantly rural, with Windom serving as the main urban hub. The lifestyle here is quiet and community-oriented, with affordable living costs. Average home prices range between $160 k – $230 k, with acreage properties or modernized farmhouses up to $300 k+. For new builds, costs stay modest—around $250 – $300 per sq ft, among the lowest in the state, due to inexpensive land. The county’s proximity to Mankato (70 miles northeast) and Sioux Falls (90 miles southwest) allows access to larger markets without losing rural peace. Cottonwood County appeals to families and retirees who prefer space, agriculture, and small-town Minnesota hospitality.