Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Carlisle, PA
Considering a move to Carlisle, PA? Home to around 20,000 residents, Carlisle offers an affordable cost of living with median home prices at $232,000 and average rents near $1,120. Residents enjoy short commute times averaging 19 minutes, a friendly community, and access to excellent healthcare at UPMC Carlisle. The city’s public schools maintain solid reputations, crime rates are moderate, and the region experiences four distinct seasons with 54% sunny days. With its blend of small-town charm, higher education options, and reasonable living costs, Carlisle is a welcoming spot for families and professionals alike.
Demographics - Carlisle, PA
Demographics - Carlisle, PA
Carlisle is home to approximately 20,100 people, with a median age of 34.8 and a population density of 3,400 per square mile. The community is predominantly White (81.5%), but also includes Black, Asian, and other ethnic groups, making it a moderately diverse small town. About 7.8% of residents speak a language other than English at home, reflecting a welcoming environment for newcomers.
Population:
20,118
Density:
3,400 per sq mi
Median Age:
34.8
Gender Ratio:
93 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
7.8%
Ethnic Composition
White:
81.5%
Black:
8.2%
Asian:
2.9%
Others:
7.4%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Carlisle, PA?
Living in Carlisle is affordable, with a median home value of $232,000 and average rent around $1,120 per month. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, particularly for housing, making it an attractive place for budget-conscious families and professionals. Utilities and groceries are slightly above average, but state income tax is low at 3.07%.
Median House Value:
$232,000
Gross Rent:
$1,120
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$120
Auto Insurance:
$1,210
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,370
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$550
State Taxes:
Low:
3.07%
|
High:
3.07%
Cost Of Living Index:
89.3
Grocery:
98.1
Housing:
74.5
Utilities:
106.2
Transportation:
94.7
Health Care:
98.9
Miscellaneous:
97.0
Crime
Is Carlisle, PA a safe place to live?
Carlisle experiences moderate crime rates, with about 265 violent crimes and 1,650 property crimes per 100,000 residents. The overall chance of experiencing a violent crime is 1 in 378, while the chance of property crime is 1 in 61. Most residents find the city to be a safe, family-friendly community with active local law enforcement.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
265
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,650
Crime Index:
1,915
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 378
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 61
Weather
What is the weather like in Carlisle, PA year-round?
Carlisle offers four distinct seasons, including warm summers with highs around 85°F and cold winters dipping to 22°F. Residents enjoy about 54% sunny days each year and an average rainfall of 41 inches, providing a balanced climate for outdoor activities. Spring and fall bring mild, comfortable temperatures ideal for exploring the area.
Winter
Min:
22°F
Max:
39°F
Spring
Min:
42°F
Max:
67°F
Summer
Min:
62°F
Max:
85°F
Fall
Min:
44°F
Max:
68°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
41 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
Carlisle's households have a median income of $60,100 and a family income near $76,900, with a poverty rate of 14%. Most residents enjoy short commutes averaging 19 minutes, and 92.9% have at least a high school diploma. The community is stable and largely owner-occupied, fostering a neighborly, supportive atmosphere.
Median Income:
$32,850
Household Income:
$60,100
Family Income:
$76,900
Per Capita Income:
$29,200
Income Male:
$41,900
Income Female:
$33,400
Poverty Rate:
14.0%
Non English Speakers:
7.8%
Rent:
$1,120
Unemployment Rate:
4.5%
Public Transport Usage:
1.2%
Commute Time:
19.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.9%
Bachelors or More:
33.8%
Education
How are the schools in Carlisle, PA?
Carlisle offers a range of educational options, including public schools like Carlisle High School and Lamberton Middle School, both known for strong student-to-teacher ratios. The city is home to Dickinson College and Penn State Dickinson Law, providing higher education opportunities close to home. Private schooling options are also available, making Carlisle a supportive environment for students at all levels.
Public Schools
Name:
Carlisle High School
Street:
623 W Penn St
Phone:
717-240-6800
Students:
1,490
Student Teacher Ratio:
14.5
Name:
Lamberton Middle School
Street:
777 S Hanover St
Phone:
717-240-6800
Students:
670
Student Teacher Ratio:
13.8
Private Schools
Name:
Carlisle Christian Academy
Street:
1412 Holly Pike
Phone:
717-243-8820
Students:
170
Colleges
Name:
Dickinson College
City:
Carlisle
State:
PA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
2,200
Name:
Penn State Dickinson Law
City:
Carlisle
State:
PA
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
200
Healthcare
Healthcare in Carlisle is anchored by UPMC Carlisle, a major hospital offering emergency and surgical services. With 2.2 physicians per 1,000 residents and over 93% health insurance coverage, access to medical care is reliable for most families. The city's healthcare index is solid, contributing to residents' overall well-being.
Major Hospitals
Name:
UPMC Carlisle
Address:
361 Alexander Spring Rd, Carlisle, PA 17015
Phone:
(717) 249-1212
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
93.4%
Health Care Index:
78.3
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Carlisle, PA?
Homes in Carlisle are moderately priced, with a median value of $232,000 and a 6.8% appreciation rate over the past year. About 54% of properties are owner-occupied, and the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,120. The housing market is stable, with low foreclosure rates and a healthy mix of new construction.
Median Home Price:
$232,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,120
Owner Occupied Rate:
54.2%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.8%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.4%
DMV Information
Motor vehicle services in Carlisle are managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), with the nearest office located in Harrisburg. Residents can access licensing, registration, and other DMV services both online and in person. The process is straightforward, ensuring convenience for new and existing drivers.
State:
Pennsylvania
Department:
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT)
Address:
1101 S. Front St, Harrisburg, PA 17104
Phone:
1-717-412-5300
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.