Since 2012, it has been defined as part of the Harrisburg–York–Lebanon combined statistical area, which also includes York, Lebanon, and Adams counties.

[2] Harrisburg–Carlisle is located in the Susquehanna River's valley, which makes the terrain rolling, with occasional flat land and tall hills.

The Harrisburg metropolitan area has a humid continental climate, experiencing four mild seasons: summer, autumn, winter, and spring.

[15] The Harrisburg–Carlisle metropolitan area is served by a number of interstates, US routes, and state highways that help facilitate the movement of people and goods throughout the region.

Amtrak's Keystone Service, which terminates at Harrisburg Transportation Center, allows for rail trips to points east, including Philadelphia and New York City.

[20][21] Currently, the Harrisburg–Carlisle region is not served by any commuter rail; however, there were plans to bring it to the metropolitan and combined statistical areas.

Plans included a commuter rail line, called the Capital Red Rose Corridor, running from Lancaster to Harrisburg, with a possible extension to Carlisle.

CAT provides local and commuter bus service in eastern Cumberland and southern Dauphin counties.

The following is a list of non-profit colleges and universities within Harrisburg–Carlisle: The Harrisburg–Carlisle metropolitan area is located entirely within the Harrisburg–York–Lebanon media market.