Overview
Carlise is a borough in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania, approximately 25 miles southwest of Harrisburg. Retirees that are seeking to live in a quaint city on the east coast with moderate to colder weather will surely appreciate Carlisle.
Climate & Geography
Carlisle has a humid continental climate type, meaning summers are hot and humid, while winters are cold. The average annual precipitation is 42 inches of rainfall, 30 inches of snowfall, and there are approximately 200 days of sunshine throughout each year.
The borough is nestled in the Cumberland Valley—a section of the larger Great Appalachian Valley, which is a chain of lowlands situated within the Ridge and Valley region of Appalachia. The areas to the north and south of the borough are dominated by steep mountain ridges, while the immediate surrounding area is relatively flat. The Conodoguinet Creek flows through the north of the city into the Susquehanna River. Letort Spring Run flows on the eastern part of the city.
Recreation, Culture, & Entertainment
Carlisle is a historical borough so there are a ton of monuments and museums to visit, as well as a selection of theaters and art galleries. Shopping includes farmers markets, antique shops, and fashion malls.
Active adults can enjoy outdoor recreation at LeTort Spring Run and Nature Trail and Letort Falls Park. There are also several golf and country clubs in the surrounding area.
The larger city of Harrisburg is near enough for residents to take day trips and explore a wider variety of activities.
Cost of Living & Taxes
The overall cost of living in Carlisle is lower than both the state and national averages. This is primarily due to the quite low cost of homes and housing. Transportation costs are also well below the average, while grocery, health care, and utility costs are all slightly above average.
Pennsylvania is considered quite tax friendly to retirees. Social Security benefits and retirement savings accounts are exempt from income tax in the state, and all pensions are exempt for residents who are 59.5+. On the other hand, property tax rates are somewhat high, although this is offset by the low cost of homes. There are property tax relief programs available to help further reduce this cost, depending on residents' age, income, and other factors.
Health Care
There are two regionally ranked medical centers and hospitals located around Carlisle. They are Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Pinnacle. Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is nationally ranked in two adult specialties, regionally ranked No. 1 in Harrisburg, and rated high performing in seven adult procedures/conditions. UPMC Pinnacle is nationally ranked in pulmonology & lung surgery, regionally ranked No. 2 in Harrisburg, and rated high performing in eight adult procedures/conditions.