| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Shelbyville/100k people | Kentucky/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 205 | n/a (estimate) | 1,141 | 1,563 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 0 | n/a | 0.0 | 6.1 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 6 | n/a | 33.4 | 32.4 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 1 | n/a | 5.6 | 35.1 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 17 | n/a | 94.7 | 139.5 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 24 | n/a (estimate) | 134 | 213 | 359 |
| Burglary | 23 | n/a | 128.1 | 193.6 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 134 | n/a | 746.1 | 930.2 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 24 | n/a | 133.6 | 226.2 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 181 | n/a (estimate) | 1,008 | 1,350 | 1,760 |

The Shelbyville crime rates are 46.1% lower than the national average. There are two main categories of crime - violent crime and property crime. Violent crime consists of murder, rape, robbery and assault, while property crimes include burglary, theft and vehicle theft. There were a total of 24 violent crimes in Shelbyville (134 per 100,000 people), which is 62.8% lower than the national average and there were a total of 181 property crimes (1008 per 100,000 residents) which is 42.7% lower than average.
Shelbyville showcased a dedication to violent crime safety in its latest reported crime year by achieving a murder rate of 0. This accomplishment could indicate that it is a safe place for residents, but also provides a shining example to other urban areas endeavoring to create safer communities.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Shelbyville residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 5 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 80% of Shelbyville residents expressed a notable sense of security, asserting that crime was virtually non-existent in their community, and they felt at ease strolling the streets after dark. While, 20% of those surveyed held a contrasting viewpoint, perceiving a higher incidence of crime, leading them to feel apprehensive about walking alone at night.
Before you decide to relocate, it’s always good to ask yourself “Is Shelbyville a safe place to live?” Although the answer might not be that simple, as some areas are safer than others, getting a good feel for the overall rate of crime can definitely be helpful. Overall, the Shelbyville crime rate is 46% lower than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 0.56 crimes per day - 0.07 violent crimes and 0.5 property crimes.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Shelbyville. 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 Shelbyville has decreased by 16.3%. Specifically, violent crime has increased by 20%, while property crime has decreased by 19.6%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Shelbyville.
The economic well-being of a city's residents plays a significant role in crime rates. High poverty rates and income inequality can lead to increased crime stats as individuals may resort to illegal activities to meet their basic needs. While lower rates could lead to a lower Shelbyville crime rate. The poverty level in Shelbyville is 10.7%, while the national average is 15.1%.
In Shelbyville, the cost of living is 2.23% lower than the national average. A high cost of living can induce economic stress for locals, especially those with limited financial resources. When people grapple with soaring housing expenses, utility bills, healthcare costs, and other essential necessities, they may be driven towards criminal activities, including theft or fraud, as a means of financial survival. Conversely, cities boasting a lower cost of living may mitigate economic pressures and potentially result in reduced crime rates.
The median home price in Shelbyville is $339,567, compared to the national average of $326,622. High housing costs can lead to financial stress for residents. When individuals struggle to make ends meet due to expensive housing, they may be more inclined to engage in criminal activities to address their financial difficulties, such as theft or fraud. Communities with stable housing environments tend to foster stronger social bonds and community engagement. This can lead to increased vigilance and cooperation among residents, which can deter criminal behavior.

Why stop at city-to-city? With Local Insights, you can compare neighborhoods, zip codes, or even exact addresses. Access 300+ hyperlocal data points—from schools and crime to housing and amenities—to see which area is the better fit.
| Item | Shelbyville | Kentucky | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 22 | 5,359 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 1.5 | 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 |
| Pewee Valley, KY | 1,598 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Elk Creek, KY | 1,888 | 30 | 189 | 219 |
| Buckner, KY | 5,814 | 69 | 439 | 508 |
| Crestwood, KY | 5,222 | 69 | 439 | 508 |
| Pleasureville, KY | 1,456 | 89 | 567 | 656 |
| La Grange, KY | 9,181 | 66 | 911 | 978 |
| Eminence, KY | 2,640 | 0 | 1,525 | 1,525 |
| Shelbyville, KY | 16,838 | 134 | 1,008 | 1,141 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| Hazel Park, MI | 16,845 | 203 | 1,666 | 1,870 |
| Port Washington, NY | 16,824 | 126 | 810 | 935 |
| Coos Bay, OR | 16,855 | 627 | 4,461 | 5,088 |
| Gainesville, VA | 16,819 | 89 | 641 | 730 |
| New River, AZ | 16,857 | 172 | 731 | 903 |
| Shelbyville, KY | 16,838 | 134 | 1,008 | 1,141 |