Which of the following house styles is commonly associated with a cottage-like appearance, often in rural settings?

The cottage house style is characterized by its quaint, cozy, and often picturesque design, which aligns perfectly with what is commonly referred to as a "cottage-like appearance." These homes typically feature elements such as steeply pitched roofs, decorative gables, arched doorways, and an overall intimate scale, making them well-suited for rural or semi-rural environments. The aesthetic appeals to those seeking a charming and comfortable living space that integrates with the surrounding landscape.

On the other hand, while prairie houses emphasize horizontal lines and integration with the landscape, they do not have the same cozy or cottage-like feeling. Split-level and bi-level houses are more modern styles characterized by multiple levels that create a more complex façade and typically lack the charm and simplicity associated with cottage houses. Therefore, the cottage house stands out as the style most representative of a cottage-like appearance, making it the correct choice in this context.