Carlisle, IA
Population 4,187 · Iowa
About Carlisle, IA
Carlisle is a small town located in Iowa with a population of 4,187 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $98,333 per year, which is 31% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 37 years is close to the US median age of 38.9 years.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Carlisle features a median home value of $208,100, which is 15% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Carlisle in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $896, 23% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 1,620 total housing units, 85% are owner-occupied (1,322 units) and 15% are renter-occupied (242 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Carlisle shows an unemployment rate of 4.6%, which is near the national rate of 3.7%. The poverty rate stands at 4.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Carlisle have an average one-way commute time of 22.9 minutes.
Education & Demographics
27.4% of Carlisle residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 3.7% White, 3.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.9% Asian residents, with 0.9% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Carlisle, IA
Compared to national averages, Carlisle has a median household income of $98,333 (31% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $208,100, which is 15% below the national median. Monthly rent at $896 is 23% below the US average of $1,163. Within Iowa, Carlisle's income is 45% above the state average of $67,947, and home values are 57% above the state median of $132,237.
Why Live in Carlisle, IA?
Carlisle offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $98,333, well above the national average, and affordable housing with a median home value of $208,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $896/month. Additionally, the city features a low poverty rate of 4.0%, better than the national average, and short commute times averaging just 22.9 minutes.
Carlisle has a population of 4,187 with a median age of 37 years. Compare Carlisle with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Iowa.
Similar Cities Near Carlisle
Cities in Iowa with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jefferson | 4,164 | $54,286 | $126,900 | Compare |
| Chariton | 4,235 | $52,109 | $84,200 | Compare |
| Forest City | 4,280 | $62,917 | $136,400 | Compare |
| Hampton | 4,311 | $48,922 | $91,900 | Compare |
| Rock Valley | 4,061 | $67,012 | $225,800 | Compare |
| Monticello | 4,055 | $67,788 | $160,500 | Compare |
| Dyersville | 4,357 | $72,768 | $219,800 | Compare |
| Huxley | 4,440 | $122,716 | $296,100 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Iowa
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Carlisle With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Carlisle
What is the population of Carlisle, IA?
The population of Carlisle, IA is 4,187 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Iowa.
What is the median household income in Carlisle?
The median household income in Carlisle, IA is $98,333 per year, which is 31% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Carlisle?
The median home value in Carlisle, IA is $208,100, which is 15% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Carlisle?
The median monthly rent in Carlisle, IA is $896, which is 23% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Carlisle?
The unemployment rate in Carlisle, IA is 4.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Carlisle, IA a good place to live?
Carlisle offers above-average incomes, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 4,187 and a median age of 37, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Carlisle, IA?
27.4% of residents in Carlisle aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Carlisle?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Carlisle, IA: median home value is $208,100 (15% below national), median rent is $896/month, and median household income is $98,333. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Carlisle?
The poverty rate in Carlisle, IA is 4.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Carlisle, IA?
Carlisle's population is 3.7% White, 3.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.9% Asian, and 0.4% two or more races. 0.9% of residents are foreign-born.