| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Princeton/100k people | Kentucky/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 107 | n/a (estimate) | 1,733 | 1,563 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 6.1 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 32.4 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 1 | n/a | 16.2 | 35.1 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 139.5 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 1 | n/a (estimate) | 16 | 213 | 359 |
| Burglary | 21 | n/a | 340.2 | 193.6 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 74 | n/a | 1,198.8 | 930.2 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 11 | n/a | 178.2 | 226.2 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 106 | n/a (estimate) | 1,717 | 1,350 | 1,760 |

Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Princeton is 18.2% lower than the national average. These crimes fall into two primary categories: violent and property. Violent crimes encompass murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes involve theft, vehicle theft and burglary. In Princeton, there were 1 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 16 per 100,000 individuals, 95.5% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 106 property crimes, amounting to 1717 per 100,000 residents, 2.4% lower than the U.S. average.
Princeton has one of the lowest violent crime rates of all cities in the United States. With a rate of 16 violent crimes per 100,000 people, Princeton ranks among the safest cities in the United States making it an attractive choice for those seeking a new place to call home.
In the most recently reported crime year, Princeton registered zero reported homicides. This statistic not only designates the area as an exemplar of security but also emanates a profound sense of safety within its community. A minimal incidence of severe violent crime not only fosters a strong sense of well-being among residents but also sets a commendable standard for other regions aiming to cultivate similarly safe surroundings.
Princeton exhibits a property crime rate closely aligned with the national average. There were 1717 reported property crimes, which closely matches the national average of 1760 per 100,000 people. Consequently, the area's safety profile mirrors that of an average city, neither notably safer nor more dangerous than the norm. This balance suggests that Princeton maintains a consistent approach to property crime prevention in line with the broader national landscape.
AreaVibes surveyed 5 local residents in Princeton to gauge the safety of the area. Based on the results, 60% of people answered that there was very little crime in Princeton and that they felt very comfortable walking alone at night. Another 40% of people responded that there was far too much crime and they would be hesitant to walk the streets alone at night. Keep in mind that the opinions of residents may vary depending on which area they live in.
Determining whether Princeton is a place to live may not always yield a simple answer, given the city's varying safety levels across different areas. Nonetheless, comprehending the city's overall crime rate can be a valuable asset. In broad terms, Princeton has an overall crime rate that is 18% lower than the national average. When we take a look at crime on a daily basis, this translates into 0.29 daily occurrences, comprising 0 violent crimes and 0.29 property crimes. Scrutinizing these statistics provides a foundation for a more informed assessment of the suitability of Princeton as a potential place to establish residency.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Princeton. This analysis involves comparing crime rates from one year to the next, enabling the identification of patterns and fluctuations in crime. Such information proves invaluable to residents seeking to make well-informed decisions about their choice of residence. In the most recent year, compared to the previous one, total crime in Princeton has decreased by 18.3%. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 90%, while property crime has decreased by 12.4%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Princeton.
If employment opportunities are limited or if many jobs offer low wages, it can lead to higher rates of unemployment and underemployment, which could lead to an increase in Princeton crime rates. Areas where individuals struggle with unemployment or low wages, may be more susceptible to an increase in criminal activities as a result of financial insecurity. While lower rates of unemployment or a surplus of job opportunities could lead to a decrease in crime as their basic needs are being met. Princeton has an unemployment rate of 2%, compared to a national average of 4.9%.
The effectiveness of law enforcement and community policing initiatives can influence crime rates. A strong and collaborative relationship between the police and the community can deter criminal activity and improve safety. In Princeton, there are 2.52 police officers and civilians per 1,000 residents, compared to the national average of 3.25. The effectiveness of law enforcement often depends on community policing strategies that emphasize building trust and cooperation between the police and the community. It's not just about the number of officers but also how they engage with the community.
In cities grappling with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves needing to reside in cramped or subpar housing conditions, elevating stress levels and potentially fueling domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. Princeton has a median home price of $133,645, deviating from the national average of $326,622. Large disparities in housing costs can significantly impact the well-being of residents and the prevalence of crime within the community.
| Item | Princeton | Kentucky | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 16 | 5,359 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.5 | 2.8 | 3.3 |
| State | Total offenders | Kentucky /100K | National /100K |
| Kentucky | 9,099 | 222 | 266 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Eddyville, KY | 2,619 | 0 | 40 | 40 |
| Dawson Springs, KY | 2,755 | 94 | 655 | 748 |
| Kuttawa, KY | 524 | 127 | 803 | 930 |
| Crayne, KY | 286 | 161 | 1,018 | 1,179 |
| Fredonia, KY | 481 | 271 | 1,720 | 1,991 |
| Cerulean, KY | 507 | 297 | 1,883 | 2,180 |
| Princeton, KY | 6,227 | 16 | 1,717 | 1,733 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Mascotte, FL | 6,228 | 255 | 1,358 | 1,613 |
| Laurence Harbor, NJ | 6,228 | 185 | 1,211 | 1,396 |
| Watchung, NJ | 6,225 | 15 | 4,201 | 4,216 |
| Tequesta, FL | 6,225 | 114 | 457 | 571 |
| Johnson Lane, NV | 6,225 | 131 | 714 | 845 |
| Princeton, KY | 6,227 | 16 | 1,717 | 1,733 |