Carlisle on the map
Built-up area21.3 km² (8.2 sq mi)
Location in CumbriaCarlisle sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Carlisle
Carlisle is a historic town in Cumbria, England, situated near the border with Scotland. It lies along the River Eden and is known for its well-preserved medieval castle, which dates back to the 11th century and offers insight into the region’s turbulent past. The town centre features a mix of traditional and modern buildings, with a market square that hosts regular events and a weekly market. Carlisle is easily accessible by road and rail, with the A6 and M6 nearby and a mainline railway station providing connections to major cities. The postcode area CA2 covers the town and its immediate surroundings. The town has a strong sense of community and retains a distinct local character, with several cultural and educational institutions contributing to its lively atmosphere.
School Ratings in Carlisle
Carlisle is served by 49 schools. Carlisle West - Newtown SureStart Children's Centre is rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 11 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Carlisle
Property prices average £198K across the area, and semi-detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £163K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Carlisle
Local crime rates sit higher than national averages. Public order accounts for the highest share in Carlisle, with 113 incidents logged in April 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Carlisle
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Carlisle falls within the mid-range nationally for overall deprivation. Working-age employment is around the national average for the area. Income levels locally sit close to the national average.
Healthcare in Carlisle
There are 11 GP surgeries within three miles of Carlisle, the nearest being Eden Medical Group (0.4 miles away).
Local Data for Carlisle
Dig deeper into the area around Carlisle with our free postcode tools.
Property Prices 17,792 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the CA2 postcode area.
Household Income in Carlisle ONS 2023
The average total household income in Carlisle is approximately £41,475 a year before tax, 25% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £32,804. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £32,804.
Businesses in Carlisle ONS 2025
There are approximately 4,474 active businesses based in Carlisle, around 43 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 88% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 90 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Carlisle IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Carlisle in the mid-range nationally. Employment and income levels are close to the England average, with a mix of opportunities across sectors. Overall living conditions are comparable to similar areas across the country.
Crime in Carlisle 960 crimes · April 2026
Reported crime in Carlisle is above the national average when measured per capita. Violence & sexual offences dominates the figures, a trend mirrored in many urban centres. Local policing teams work actively in the area, and community initiatives continue to address key concerns.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 4 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Carlisle
Of the 47,924 households in and around Carlisle, 68% are owned, 14% are socially rented and 18% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Carlisle.