| Statistic | Reportedincidents | /100k people | Shively/100k people | Kentucky/100k people | National/100k people |
| Total crime | 552 | n/a (estimate) | 3,586 | 1,563 | 2,119 |
| Murder | 2 | n/a | 13.0 | 6.1 | 5.0 |
| Rape | 7 | n/a | 45.5 | 32.4 | 37.5 |
| Robbery | 20 | n/a | 129.9 | 35.1 | 60.6 |
| Assault | 18 | n/a | 116.9 | 139.5 | 256.1 |
| Violent crime | 47 | n/a (estimate) | 305 | 213 | 359 |
| Burglary | 84 | n/a | 545.7 | 193.6 | 229.2 |
| Theft | 299 | n/a | 1,942.3 | 930.2 | 1,272.1 |
| Vehicle theft | 122 | n/a | 792.5 | 226.2 | 258.8 |
| Property crime | 505 | n/a (estimate) | 3,281 | 1,350 | 1,760 |

Looking at the most recent crime report, the crime rate in Shively is 69.2% higher 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 Shively, there were 47 reported violent crimes, equivalent to 305 per 100,000 individuals, 15% lower than the national average. Additionally, there were 505 property crimes, amounting to 3281 per 100,000 residents, 86.4% higher than the U.S. average.
Although murder rates are essentially half of what they used to be 30+ years ago, some cities still struggle with higher rates than others. Shively is one of those cities. In the last reported crime year, there were a total of 2 murders in Shively, which equates to 13 murders per 100,000 people. This results in Shively being a very dangerous place to live.
The occurrence of vehicle thefts has been increasing nationwide, and Shively faces one of the highest vehicle theft rates in the United States. In the latest reported crime year, there were a reported 122 vehicle thefts, translating to 793 stolen vehicles per 100,000 residents. This places Shively in the bottom 10% among all cities, signifying that 90% of cities have less stolen vehicles. The likelihood of experiencing a vehicle theft is 1 in 127.
What is the prevailing sentiment among Shively residents regarding the state of crime? A comprehensive survey conducted by AreaVibes, involving 9 respondents, sheds light on this matter. The results were as follows: 11% of Shively 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, 89% 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 Shively 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 Shively crime rate is 69% higher than the national average. If we break that down daily, that translates into 1.51 crimes per day - 0.13 violent crimes and 1.38 property crimes.
Examining year-over-year crime data provides insights into short-term trends with regards to the crime activity in Shively. 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 Shively has decreased by 0.2%. Specifically, violent crime has decreased by 34.7%, while property crime has decreased by 5%. This data empowers individuals with a clearer understanding of the evolving safety landscape in Shively.
In Shively, 77.4% of residents have successfully graduated from high school, whereas the national average stands at 83%. The educational makeup of any city can exert a significant influence on crime rates. Typically, higher levels of educational attainment are associated with reduced crime rates, as they furnish individuals with improved employment prospects and viable alternatives to engaging in criminal activities. Conversely, communities characterized by lower educational achievement often grapple with higher crime rates, as limited opportunities may drive individuals towards criminal behavior.
The quality of housing and neighborhood conditions can influence crime rates. Neglected or run-down neighborhoods with poorly maintained properties may be more susceptible to criminal activities. In areas with housing affordability challenges, crime can emerge as a prominent issue. Certain individuals and families may find themselves residing in cramped or inadequate housing settings, amplifying stress levels and potentially fostering domestic conflicts and associated criminal incidents. It's worth noting that the median home price in Shively stands at $194,070, a contrast to the national average of $326,622.
Elevated rental costs can generate economic strain for both individuals and families, particularly those with restricted financial means. When a substantial proportion of one's income is allocated to housing costs, it often leaves limited resources for fulfilling other crucial necessities such as groceries, healthcare and education. This financial pressure can fuel desperation, potentially prompting individuals to resort to criminal actions, including theft or fraud, as a means of coping with their financial hardships. In Shively, the average monthly rent stands at $1,148, while the national average is $1,444 per month.
| Item | Shively | Kentucky | National |
| Law enforcement employees (officers & civilians) | 33 | 5,359 | 558,732 |
| Police officers & civilians /1000 residents | 2.1 | 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 |
| Strathmoor Village, KY | 583 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Woodlawn Park, KY | 788 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Meadow Vale, KY | 813 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| West Point, KY | 1,125 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Northfield, KY | 1,296 | 0 | 203 | 203 |
| Barbourmeade, KY | 1,298 | 30 | 189 | 219 |
| St. Regis Park, KY | 1,612 | 30 | 189 | 219 |
| Shively, KY | 16,091 | 305 | 3,281 | 3,586 |
| City | Population | Violent crime/100k people | Property crime/100k people | Total crime/100k people |
| White Oak, MD | 16,087 | 389 | 1,901 | 2,290 |
| Canyon, TX | 16,086 | 54 | 674 | 729 |
| Conyers, GA | 16,084 | 375 | 2,476 | 2,851 |
| Hermitage, PA | 16,098 | 94 | 1,281 | 1,375 |
| North Arlington, NJ | 16,080 | 179 | 1,170 | 1,349 |
| Shively, KY | 16,091 | 305 | 3,281 | 3,586 |