Carlisle, IA

Carlisle is a welcoming small town of around 4,200 people located just southeast of the Des Moines metro area. Sitting primarily in Warren County, it offers a quiet, laid-back setting while keeping you only a 15- to 20-minute drive from downtown Des Moines. With roots dating back to the mid-1800s, Carlisle has grown into a comfortable community that appeals to commuters, families, and anyone looking for a little extra breathing room close to the capital.

ATTRPopePompus / CC BY-SA 4.0

Local families are served by the Carlisle Community School District, which includes neighborhood schools in town as well as an upper-elementary building in nearby Hartford. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate having the northern trailhead of the Summerset Trail right in town, offering miles of paved paths for biking and walking down to Indianola. Between local parks, a town library, and quick access to Highway 65, everyday routines are easy, while major hospitals, colleges, and metro employers remain just a short drive up the road.