Carlisle is a bustling borough in the heart of Cumberland County. According to the 2020 census, around 20,000 people call this historic community home. Often overshadowed by the larger city of Harrisburg, Carlisle is a town where cannonball dents from the Civil War are still visible as residents walk past the Cumberland County Courthouse.
The borough served as a munition depot during the American Revolutionary War and a stop on the Underground Railroad, and today, it features some of the largest employers in the county, including the U.S. Army War College, Dickinson College and numerous distribution centers. "We have a diversified employment base, with both public and private jobs available," says Andrew Wolfe, Realtor with Wolfe & Company Realtors, who has been in the industry since 2010. "The federal government is by far the top employer in the state, followed by Amazon and Giant Foods."
Yet, some of Carlisle's largest draws include a walkable downtown with local establishments, proximity to major thoroughfares and an active community. "It's not a big town or a small town, but it offers this amazing, close-knit community," says Kristi Knox, a Realtor with Iron Valley Real Estate of Central Pennsylvania, who has over 20 years of experience in the industry. "When I take my clients on tours around town, they are shocked at how friendly the community is. It's very easy to feel like you belong."
Carlisle is a friendly and welcoming community just outside of Harrisburg, PA.
Giant is one of the biggest employers in the Carlisle community.
Downtown Carlisle is pedestrian friendly with many shops offering something for everyone.
An old prison in downtown Carlisle is now a museum and shows the towns military history.
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Green space in and around town
Surrounded by the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains, residents are close to dozens of hiking and biking trails. Nearby parks like Waggoner's Gap Hawk Watch offer scenic views, while the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) traverses along the outskirts of town. Closer to home, the Cumberland Valley Rail Trail, which follows the path of the region's old railroads, spans nearly 16 miles from Shippensburg to Carlisle. The rail trail is just one small section of the 1,500-mile multi-use 9/11 Trail.
Carlisle features 19 recreational facilities, including parks, pools, community centers, athletic complexes, and the borough's only skate park. Thornwald Park is the community's largest green space, spanning 32 acres. A historic mansion-turned-hotel anchors the park, while wooded trails and the Carrol J. Warrell Amphitheater, which hosts the annual Summer Artist Series, surround its perimeter. Letort Park is another popular green space with picnic areas, a wooden castle playground and a walking path that winds along a natural spring. "Within 15-to-20 minutes outside of the borough, you are greeted by endless farm fields or State Game Lands," Wolfe says, attracting hunters, trappers and anglers.
Latort Park in Carlisle has walking trails that wind through idyllic scenes of nature.
The ducks at Letort Spring Run are always a popular draw in Carlisle.
The Cumberland Valley Rail Trail spans nearly 16 miles from Shippensburg to Carlisle.
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail traverses along the outskirts of Carlisle.
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Colonial and modern homes
Historic 19th-century rowhouses and single-family homes feature prominent colonial influences in the heart of town. The Carlisle Historic District features true Colonial-era homes and buildings, some made entirely of stone. Surrounding streets give way to 20th-century Cape Cods, bungalows and ranch-style homes. Dense urban streets give way to canopied suburban roads with 20th- and 21st-century Colonial Revivals and New Traditionals. Modern condominium and townhouse complexes are scattered around town while new developments expand. Average home prices hover around the mid-$300,000s, ranging from the low-$100,000s to the mid-$800,000s.
A beautiful twin home just outside of downtown Carlisle.
Homes outside of the downtown area offer spacious yards with the historic feel.
On the outskirts of Carlisle, newer construction ranch homes with attached garages can be found.
Colorful row homes can be found lining many residential streets in Carlisle.
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A vibrant downtown with local eateries and events
Downtown Carlisle is a vibrant hub of culture, dining and shopping. Locally owned boutiques, antique shops, galleries, bookstores and restaurants line High Street and Hanover Street. "Whenever friends visit, I always take them there," says Karen Detwiler, a local Realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. "It has grown over the past few years but still has that small-town flavor."
Global cuisines range from Greek to Japanese. "The Hamilton is a Greek restaurant on a prime downtown corner," Knox says. "It's like a meeting spot for both old and new residents because of its iconic location," and is known for its Hotchee Dog, a tiny Greek hotdog. A handful of breweries and cideries draw weekend crowds, while Molly Pitcher Brewing Company pays homage to the past, as this Revolutionary War heroine called Carlisle home.
Along with the town's local businesses, Carlisle features multiple shopping centers with chain grocers and big-box stores. Capital City Mall is the nearest shopping mall, about 20 miles away.
Grand Illusion Hard Cider in Carlisle has outdoor seating to enjoy on nice days.
Started in 1938 by Greek immigrants, the Hamilton Restaurant is downtown Carlisle's favorite.
Big box stores such as Walmart can be found in the shopping centers of Carlisle.
Molly Pitcher Brewing Company is named for the hometown Revolutionary War heroine.
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The "Car" in Carlisle
Events unite the community year-round. "New Year's Eve is huge. In 2023, we dropped a Hotchee Dog instead of a ball," Knox says. "It was the first time we did it, but I think the tradition will continue since The Hamilton has been a community staple for years." One of downtown's largest draws is the year-round Farmers on the Square farmers market, where shoppers can peruse over 30 vendor stalls selling fresh produce and baked goods.
However, many know Carlisle for its famous car shows. The Carlisle Fairgrounds hosts flea markets, concerts, RV shows, fireworks displays, and the annual Spring and Fall Carlisle shows—along with maker-specific shows for Porsche, Ford, Corvette and more. These shows are amongst the largest car shows in the region.
Market on the Square is a vibrant, producer-only farmers market in Carlisle.
Classic Corvettes are on display for thousands of fans at the Corvettes at Carlisle event.
Corvettes at Carlisle is an annual event held in late August with thousands of models.
One of Carlisle's largest draws is the year-round Farmers on the Square farmers market.
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The Carlisle Area School District
The Carlisle Area School District scores an overall B rating on Niche. The district enrolls approximately 5,130 students across seven elementary schools, two middle schools and one high school. Saint Patrick Catholic School and Carlisle Christian Academy provide private alternatives for kindergarten through twelfth-grade students.
In the heart of Carlisle, Dickinson College is a private liberal arts institution with over 40 majors. It was also the first college founded in the newly formed United States in 1783. Penn State Dickinson Law is one of two schools accredited by the state.
One of the nation's oldest military institutions, the Carlisle Barracks is home to the U.S. Army War College and the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center. Formerly the home of the Carlisle Indian Industrial School—still reflected by the naming of Jim Thorpe Road, along which the Carlisle Indian Boarding School Cemetery sits—today, it provides employment and tourism for the town.
Lamberton Middle School in Carlisle received an overall grade of B from Niche.
Carlisle Area High School is over 100 years old and has a longstanding tradition of excellence.
Students of Dickinson College in Carlisle enjoy a nice day on the greens of the campus.
The U.S. Army War College is one of the nation's oldest military institutions.
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Commutes around Carlisle
Downtown Carlisle offers a walkable community with well-maintained sidewalks and wide roads. UPMC Carlisle, one of the larger employers in the area, is less than 3 miles from the center of town. Rabbittransit provides public transportation throughout the Harrisburg-Carlisle metro area. One bus route regularly runs from the borough to Harrisburg. Harrisburg's Amtrak Station is about 25 miles away via Interstate 81, while Harrisburg International Airport is about 5 miles farther. Interstate 76 leads east to major metropolitan areas such as Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington D.C.
Year-round considerations
Carlisle residents experience all four seasons, with hot and humid summers and cool winters. The borough receives an average of 30 inches of snow a year. Low-lying areas near Letort Spring Run are prone to flooding during heavy rainfall.
According to the Pennsylvania Uniform Crime Reporting System, Carlisle Borough's violent crime rates decreased by 13% between 2023 and 2024. However, property crime rates rose by around 2%. According to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, the borough's crime rates remain well below national figures.
Written By
Lillie Duston
Photography Contributed By
Justin Schmidt
Video By
Mark Tilley
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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On average, homes in Carlisle, PA sell after 38 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Carlisle, PA over the last 12 months is $325,500, up 10% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Charming 1900's interior townhome located in Carlisle's desirable historic district! This 3 bedroom, 1 full bath home offers 1,028 square feet of character and thoughtful updates. One of the bedrooms is a walk through, providing flexible space for a home office, nursery or additional living area.The homeowners have completed numerous upgrades, enhancing both comfort and functionality. Enjoy
LEHMANS LANDING TO BE BUILT JUNIPER WITH NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2026 DELVERY. This community is just 2 miles from downtown Carlisle, bringing new townhomes with 1-car garages to a location that keeps you close to everything that makes it easy to live your life your way—with modern spaces and a vibe that fits. The Juniper floorplan combines all the amenities of single-family living with total
LEHMANS LANDING TO BE BUILT JUNIPER WITH NOVEMBER /DECEMBER 2026 DELVERY. This community is just 2 miles from downtown Carlisle, bringing new townhomes with 1-car garages to a location that keeps you close to everything that makes it easy to live your life your way—with modern spaces and a vibe that fits. The Juniper floorplan combines all the amenities of single-family living with total
Charming 1900's interior townhome located in Carlisle's desirable historic district! This 3 bedroom, 1 full bath home offers 1,028 square feet of character and thoughtful updates. One of the bedrooms is a walk through, providing flexible space for a home office, nursery or additional living area.The homeowners have completed numerous upgrades, enhancing both comfort and functionality. Enjoy
Located in the highly-ranked Cumberland Valley School District, the Anders single-family home floorplan offers main floor living at its best with 1,786-2,647 square feet of living space with 3 bedrooms, 2.5-3.5 baths and attached 2-car garage. Open the front door and pass through the entryway into the inviting kitchen with 9 ft ceilings. Your eyes will be met by natural light pouring in from the
This home is not just beautiful, it is also so spacious! The large living room that leads to the dining room, kitchen and sunroom (plus deck) flows so well! If that isn't enough space, the family room on the next level down is also extra large and has a half bath attached for guests to use. The bedrooms are nicely sized, and there is one bedroom in the lower level with a bath, "living room" and a
Introducing the Carter single-family floorplan available to build in the newest phase of Grange, located in the highly-ranked Cumberland Valley School District. A home offering 2103-2775 sq ft of living space with thoughtful features to fit your life. All that is required is your personal touches to bring out the personality and character! A grand front porch welcomes you into the home and you're
Welcome to this charming and well-maintained Bi-level home, offering 3 bedrooms and 1.5 bathrooms, ideally situated on a desirable corner lot. Designed for comfortable everyday living, the main level features a bright, open-concept layout with a spacious living room, a well-lit kitchen, and generously sized bedrooms, making it a great fit for both homeowners and investors.The layout offers
Located in the highly-ranked Cumberland Valley School District, the Darby is now available to build in Grange. Step through the welcoming front door and be greeted by stunning sightlines with the 9 ft ceilings leading to the windows at the back of the home. Sunlight pours into the great room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere and offering 1752-2371 square feet of living space. The
Cozy and comfortable end-unit townhome built in 2023 featuring LVP flooring and a spacious living area that’s perfect for entertaining, flowing seamlessly into the beautiful kitchen with granite countertops, large cabinets, center island, and a pantry. Upstairs, the bright Owner’s Suite offers a cathedral ceiling and walk-in closet, plus an en-suite bright bathroom. Two additional bedrooms share
Luxury Custom New Construction by Musser Home Builders in The Preserve at Stonehill Farm **Estimated Completion April 2026.**Welcome to this stunning model home by the highly regarded Musser Home Builders, where exceptional quality, fine craftsmanship, and elegant architectural detail define the standard. The thoughtfully designed floor plan seamlessly balances comfort and functionality,
The innovative Fairmont floor plan features 2,021 square feet of living space with three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, a two-car, front-entry garage and full, unfinished basement.The main level offers plenty of flexible spaces. The more intimate living room located at the front of the home is the perfect space for a home office or kids playroom, while the rear of the home boasts an open-concept
A classic home with country charm. Welcome to the Chamberlain! This two-story home boasts 1790 square feet of living space with three bedrooms, two and a half baths, a two-car garage, and full unfinished basement.The main level features a spacious open living room and separate dining room area. The homestyle L-shaped kitchen has a breakfast bar that overlooks the family room, a large adjacent
The Bayberry is a traditional-style two-story home that features a main-level owners suite and laundry room, secondary bedrooms on the upper level, and a full, unfinished basement.The extended front porch immediately welcomes guests inside to the two-story foyer and adjacent dining room. The foyer entry continues toward the rear of the home past the powder room and laundry room, ending in the
One story living at its best and over 2,700 sq feet! The expansive owner's suite features a spacious closet and convenient laundry. The open kitchen has an optional shared cathedral ceiling with the great room. A dining room and breakfast area provide ample seating for entertaining. A private study off the mudroom can provide various uses to suit your needs.
Highly desirable Morgan’s Crossing townhome offering over 2,500 sq ft of finished living space across three levels. This spacious home features a large family room, granite countertops, and a two-car garage. The open-concept kitchen flows into the dining and living areas, ideal for entertaining. Step outside to a composite deck with privacy fence. The upper level includes a private primary suite
Cozy, comfortable end-unit townhome built in 2023—now available for lease and in great condition! Enjoy LVP flooring and a spacious, open main level ideal for entertaining. The kitchen features granite countertops, center island, pantry, and ample cabinet space. Upstairs offers 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths, including a bright Owner’s Suite with cathedral ceiling and walk-in closet, plus an
Northside Village townhome in Carlisle, conveniently located near shopping, restaurants, Dickinson College, and Carlisle Barracks. This well-maintained home features an open main level with a combination kitchen/dining area, center island, ample cabinetry, pantry, and living room with half bath. Upper level includes a primary suite with walk-in closet and private bath, two additional bedrooms
Wynfield is located at 1 Wynfield Blvd. York, PA and is managed by Burkentine Properties, a reputable property management company with verified listings on RENTCafe. Wynfield offers 1 to 4 bedroom apartments ranging in size from 850 to 1600 sq.ft. Amenities include Air Conditioner, Bike Racks, Cable Ready, Carpeting, Ceiling Fan and more. This rental community is pet friendly, welcoming both cats
BRAND NEW!! Be the first to call this Garman-built townhouse, 'home'. 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths of pure newness await you! A combination of tasteful carpeting and kitchen flooring abound, accompanied by a gas stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, and washer/dryer hookups set this home apart from the competition. Attached deck off the kitchen/dining area, and attached 2-car garage to protect your
DAVID MCDONALDADP Realty & Property Management LLC
Your new home awaits! Northside Village Apartments & Townhomes is a brand-new luxury apartment & townhome community located in the heart of Carlisle. Our community offers desirable amenities, spacious floor plans and is within minutes of the Army War College, Dickinson, and Carlisle Hospital. This 4-story, controlled-access elevator building includes premium amenities such as a 24-Hour fitness
FOR RENT – Dream Living in Cumberland County! Looking for space, privacy, and convenience? This detached home offers it all! With plenty of land to enjoy, free water included, and a peaceful setting, it’s the perfect place to unwind while staying close to everything you need. Located in the sought-after Cumberland Valley, this home provides the comfort of private living with easy access to
Daily life runs smoothly when you live at Cambria Place. That is partly thanks to the spacious residences and enticing amenities, and partly thanks to the well-connected location near Stonehedge Square. Our apartments in Carlisle, PA, come in one, two, three, or four-bedroom layouts, giving you and your loved ones plenty of space to dwell well.
BRAND NEW!! Be the first to call this Garman-built townhouse, 'home'. 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths of pure newness await you! A combination of tasteful carpeting and kitchen flooring abound, accompanied by a gas stove, refrigerator (installed after lease-signing), dishwasher, and washer/dryer hookups set this home apart from the competition. Attached deck off the kitchen/dining area, and attached
DAVID MCDONALDADP Realty & Property Management LLC
Stunning 2-Bedroom Penthouse in Downtown Carlisle Modern Living at Its Best! This beautifully updated penthouse suite offers a perfect blend of contemporary style and historic charm. The spacious open-concept living area features gorgeous hardwood flooring throughout and is highlighted by a sleek, modern kitchen complete with a breakfast bar ideal for casual dining or entertaining. You'll
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