Carlisle

Carlisle is a quaint community located just off the Highway 5 bypass and less than a 25-minute drive from downtown Des Moines.  Carlisle has a population of just over 4,000 and is located partially in Warren and Polk Counties.  The city attracts many families thanks to its highly rated schools and safe and friendly neighborhoods.  As part of the ever-evolving Des Moines metropolitan area, Carlisle offers easy access to a number of attractions including the Science Center of Iowa, Blank Park Zoo,  Downtown Farmer's Market and much more. 

River with green fields on either side in Carlisle, Iowa

Carlisle Real Estate Stats

Average Home Price $260K
Lowest Listing Price $12
Highest Listing Price $650K
Total Property Listings 51
Avg. Days On Market 89
Avg. Price/SQFT $227

Property Types (active listings)

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Carlisle homes for sale range from large homesteads on acres of farmland to attractive ranch-style homes with open-plan concepts, two-story homes, condos and townhomes. Home prices are very reasonable considering how close Carlisle real estate is to downtown Des Moines.

Most single-family homes in Carlisle sit on quiet residential streets or are located just outside the city center on lots surrounded by rolling hills and forest. Many homes have front and back yards and garages that can accommodate at least two cars.

Because Carlisle is growing along with the rest of the metropolitan Des Moines area, there are many new construction homes. You can find modern homes by renowned Iowa builders like D.R. Horton and Danamere. Many of these homes are very modern with contemporary conveniences like Smart Home technology.

Common features in Carlisle homes include open-concept living and dining areas, kitchens with pantries and central islands, living rooms with fireplaces, and spacious suites with walk-in closets and ensuite bathrooms with bathtubs. Some homes also have finished basements and fenced-in yards.

You can also find land for sale on the Carlisle real estate market. This could include acreages, farmland and land that can be zoned for hunting. Some lots are located in quiet subdivisions, while others are further out of town and have attractive features like rivers, hardwood trees, and brush where wild turkeys and deer gather.

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About Carlisle, IA

People settled in the area of Carlisle in the early 1800s at a place along the Des Moines River called Dudley. After the Great Flood of 1851 wiped out Dudley, the town’s residents moved to the present day location of Carlisle and named the city after another city of the same name in Pennsylvania. 

Like many cities in the Des Moines area, Carlisle was the site of a number of railroads that passed through the town on the way to other destinations. These lines have since been abandoned, and many have been turned into walking and cycling trails.

Today Carlisle is an easy-going suburb of Des Moines that attracts many young professionals and families who want to be close to Des Moines, but in a more peaceful environment. Residents love the affordable real estate in Carlisle, the relaxed pace of life and the beautiful rural scenery.

Keith Soldwisch Iowa Realtor

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Amenities & Attractions in Carlisle, IA

Carlisle is the ideal spot for nature lovers, as the city is surrounded by low hills, forests, rivers and farmland. The city sits between the North and Middle Rivers, so there are plenty of opportunities to take nature walks and do some wildlife spotting. 

The Summerset Trail has its northern entry point at Carlisle. Once a railroad line, it is now an 11-mile trail that stretches from Carlisle to Indianola and passes through beautiful wetlands, prairie and forests. This is a great spot to do some walking, running or cycling.

Although Carlisle is mainly residential, there are several restaurants and shops where you can grab a bite to eat or pick up groceries and essentials. Popular restaurants include Fiss for ice cream and sandwiches, Coco & Nini’s Restaurant for Italian, and Caseys for pizza.

Are you interested in learning more about Carlisle real estate? Contact us online or call 515-329-4667 to speak to one of our Iowa real estate experts today!

Carlisle FAQs

What is Carlisle known for?

You may know Carlisle as the birthplace of the world’s first surviving set of septuplets, born to Bobbi and Kenny McCaughey in 1997. However, the city is also known for its beautiful natural setting and friendly residents. Many people come here for the hiking trails that wind through forests, hills and along the Des Moines River.

Is Carlisle a good place to live?

With a small population and wide open spaces on all sides, Carlisle has a real rural feel. Many residents know their neighbors and feel safe letting their children play in the parks and public spaces. There are only a few shops and restaurants in town, but Des Moines is just a short drive away, so it's easy to find everything you need without going too far.

How far is Carlisle from Des Moines?

Carlisle is located 11.7 miles southeast of Des Moines. It takes about 25 minutes to drive from Carlisle to the heart of Des Moines. 

Is Carlisle a good place to invest in real estate?

There is great potential for growth in Carlisle, as the city is so close to Des Moines, but still has large plots of land that have not been developed yet. You can find land for sale, new construction homes and many new communities where there is a focus on preserving the natural environment. If you’re looking for an up-and-coming community that still has a relaxed atmosphere, Carlisle is a great place to invest in!

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