Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Carlisle, MA
Considering a move to Carlisle, MA? This charming, low-density town of 5,300 residents is known for its peaceful rural character, top-rated public schools, and high educational attainment—with over 83% holding bachelor’s degrees or higher. Expect a high cost of living, with median home prices around $1.1M and rents near $2,500, but enjoy ultra-low crime rates, excellent healthcare access, and scenic New England weather with 56% sunny days each year. With long average commutes and a highly affluent, well-educated community, Carlisle offers a tranquil, family-friendly lifestyle just outside Boston.
Demographics - Carlisle, MA
Demographics - Carlisle, MA
Carlisle is a small, close-knit community of about 5,300 people, with a median age of 48.2 years, reflecting its appeal to established families and professionals. The town is predominantly White (82%) with a notable Asian population (13%), and nearly 9% of residents speak a language other than English at home. Its low population density and balanced gender ratio contribute to a peaceful, suburban atmosphere.
Population:
5,300
Density:
300 per sq mi
Median Age:
48.2
Gender Ratio:
98 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
82.1%
Black:
0.9%
Asian:
13.2%
Others:
3.8%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Carlisle, MA?
The cost of living in Carlisle is significantly higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 160.3. Median home values are around $1,120,000 and typical rents for a two-bedroom are about $2,500, making it an upscale choice. Residents also face above-average expenses for utilities, transportation, and groceries, reflecting the town’s affluent character.
Median House Value:
$1,120,000
Gross Rent:
$2,500
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$170
Auto Insurance:
$1,400
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$3,950
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$1,250
State Taxes:
Low:
5%
|
High:
9%
Cost Of Living Index:
160.3
Grocery:
118.5
Housing:
228.0
Utilities:
116.2
Transportation:
121.4
Health Care:
109.2
Miscellaneous:
112.1
Crime
Is Carlisle, MA a safe place to live?
Carlisle is one of the safest communities in Massachusetts, with a violent crime rate of just 35 per 100,000 and a property crime rate of 210 per 100,000 residents. The odds of experiencing a violent crime are extremely low—about 1 in 2,850—making it a reassuring place for families and retirees. Overall, Carlisle’s crime index is far below national averages.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
35
Property Crimes Per 100k:
210
Crime Index:
245
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 2,850
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 480
Weather
What is the weather like in Carlisle, MA year-round?
Carlisle experiences classic New England weather, with cold winters averaging 18°F to 36°F and pleasant summers ranging from 60°F to 83°F. The town receives about 48.5 inches of annual rainfall and enjoys sunny conditions 56% of the year. Residents can expect distinct seasonal changes, ideal for those who appreciate varied climates.
Winter
Min:
18°F
Max:
36°F
Spring
Min:
38°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
48.5 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
56%
Neighbors
Carlisle boasts a highly affluent and educated population, with a median household income of $224,000 and 83% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. The poverty rate is very low at just 1.7%, and unemployment is under 3%. Most residents commute over 36 minutes for work, reflecting the town’s suburban location and professional workforce.
Median Income:
$81,000
Household Income:
$224,000
Family Income:
$247,000
Per Capita Income:
$82,600
Income Male:
$112,000
Income Female:
$75,000
Poverty Rate:
1.7%
Non English Speakers:
8.5%
Rent:
$2,500
Unemployment Rate:
2.8%
Public Transport Usage:
6.1%
Commute Time:
36.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
98.7%
Bachelors or More:
83.4%
Education
How are the schools in Carlisle, MA?
Carlisle is known for its strong educational offerings, with a highly rated public school and access to top private institutions nearby. The local public school maintains a favorable student-teacher ratio, while higher education is easily accessible at nearby colleges like Middlesex Community College and UMass Lowell. The community’s commitment to education is reflected in its high graduation and degree attainment rates.
Public Schools
Name:
Carlisle Public School
Street:
83 School St
Phone:
978-369-6550
Students:
635
Student Teacher Ratio:
11.1
Private Schools
Name:
The Fenn School
Street:
516 Monument St, Concord, MA
Phone:
978-369-5800
Students:
325
Colleges
Name:
Middlesex Community College
City:
Bedford
State:
MA
Distance:
9 miles
Students:
7,500
Name:
University of Massachusetts Lowell
City:
Lowell
State:
MA
Distance:
15 miles
Students:
18,000
Healthcare
Healthcare access in Carlisle is excellent, with 97% of residents insured and major hospitals like Emerson Hospital nearby. The area has a high physician-to-resident ratio of 4.6 per 1,000 people, ensuring timely medical care. Residents benefit from a strong healthcare infrastructure and a favorable healthcare index.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Emerson Hospital
Address:
133 Old Road to Nine Acre Corner, Concord, MA 01742
Phone:
(978) 369-1400
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
4.6
Health Insurance Coverage:
97.2%
Health Care Index:
77.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Carlisle, MA?
Carlisle’s housing market is dominated by owner-occupied homes, with a median home price of $1,120,000 and a low rental vacancy rate of 2.8%. The past year saw home values appreciate by 6.2%, indicating a robust and stable market. New construction is limited, contributing to the town’s exclusivity and high property values.
Median Home Price:
$1,120,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$2,500
Owner Occupied Rate:
96.1%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
2.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.2%
New Construction Rate:
0.8%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.3%
DMV Information
Residents of Carlisle are served by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, with the nearest main office located in Quincy. Services include vehicle registration, licensing, and title processing, accessible both in-person and online. The DMV provides comprehensive support for all motor vehicle needs in the state.
State:
Massachusetts
Department:
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles
Address:
25 Newport Ave Extension, Quincy, MA 02171
Phone:
1-857-368-8000
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.