What is the crime rate in Bowling Green, Kentucky? Explore crime stats, safety tips & trends to see if Bowling Green, KY is safe for you.
The initial visit I made to Bowling Green, Kentucky, was on a hot summer evening, and the town felt very much like a small city—nice people, nice parks, and the classic Southern hospitality. But because I was worried about crime concerns, in the back of my mind was always the question: “What is Bowling Green’s crime rate?”
Whether you’re considering a move here, passing through, or merely curious about crime trends, you’re in the right spot. In the subsequent article, we’ll analyze Bowling Green, KY crime rate and put it into perspective with state and national averages and boil down the figures into plain language. By the end of this piece, you’ll have a good idea of just how safe Bowling Green really is.
Table of Contents
Crime Rates: What the Statistics Tell Us
Let’s first define the crime rate before going into the details. Crime rates are usually measured on a per 1,000 residents basis and are categorized into two broad groups:
The most reliable statistics are available through the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program and others, including NeighborhoodScout and City-Data.
Bowling Green, KY Crime Rate: The Statistics
Now, let’s get down to business now. How does Bowling Green rate in terms of crime?
| Crime Type | Bowling Green Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents) | Kentucky State Average | National Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Violent Crime | 4.5 | 2.2 | 4.0 |
| Property Crime | 23.8 | 17.5 | 19.6 |
| Total Crime | 28.3 | 19.7 | 23.6 |
You can see from the table that the violent crime rate for Bowling Green is slightly above the average for the nation and the state, and the nation’s averages for the property crime portion are higher.
What Does It Mean for Residents?
If you’re a local or a transplant to Bowling Green, the truth is: crime does occur, but it’s not widespread. The city is not the most violent in the state of Kentucky, but theft and overall property crime are something to take note of.
Is Bowling Green, KY safe? A Practical Overview
Let’s be honest: No city is 100% crime-free. But safety is about more than just statistics—it’s about how crime affects daily life.
Personal Experience: Bowling Green Life
I was paranoid when I first got here. I had left my car unlocked in front of the apartment building once, and the next morning? Nothing was missing. But my neighbor? His car had been broken into because his valuables were out in the open. Moral: Lock doors and do not leave valuables in the car.
High-Crime and Low-Crime Neighborhoods
Like in any city, there are zones that are safer than others.
Safer Neighborhoods in Bowling Green:
Higher crime zones:
Pro Tip: If safety is a top concern for you, it’s better to remain in the eastern and southeastern parts of the city, where crime is not so rampant.
Why is Bowling Green’s Property Crime Rate so high?
In case you’re wondering why the average property crime rate in Bowling Green is higher, here are the primary reasons:
This is not to avoid Bowling Green completely. It just means be cautious there, just like in any city.
Crime Trends Over the Years: Is Bowling Green Becoming Safer?
Good News: Crime Rates Are Steadily Falling
If we examine crime statistics from the period between the years 2010 and 2024, violent crime remains pretty much the same, and there’s a slight decline in the crime of property.
| Year | Violent Crime Rate | Property Crime Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 5.2 | 27.4 |
| 2015 | 4.9 | 25.1 |
| 2020 | 4.6 | 24.0 |
| 2024 | 4.5 | 23.8 |
While crime still exists, community programs and neighborhood patrols, and law enforcement initiatives have made Bowling Green a safer place to be.
How to be safe in Bowling Green, KY
If you’re relocating to Bowling Green or simply visiting, here are some helpful pointers on safety:
FAQs
1. How does Bowling Green, KY’s crime rate compare to the rest of Kentucky?
Bowling Green has a higher-than-average property crime rate compared to the rest of Kentucky. While the state’s average property crime rate is 17.5 per 1,000 residents, Bowling Green’s is 23.8 per 1,000 residents. However, violent crime in Bowling Green (4.5 per 1,000 residents) is only slightly above the Kentucky state average of 2.2 but remains close to the national average of 4.0.
2. What are the most common crimes in Bowling Green, KY?
The most common crimes in Bowling Green are property crimes, particularly theft, burglary, and motor vehicle theft. According to reports from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program, larceny-theft makes up the majority of reported incidents. Violent crimes like assault and robbery occur but are less frequent than property-related offenses.
3. What areas of Bowling Green, KY, have higher crime rates?
Higher crime rates are reported in downtown Bowling Green, near Western Kentucky University (WKU), and along the Russellville Road Corridor. These areas experience higher property crime rates due to student activity, tourism, and economic factors. Safer neighborhoods include Cumberland Ridge, Briarwood, and Cave Mill, which report fewer incidents.
4. Is Bowling Green, KY safe for families and students?
Yes, Bowling Green is generally safe for families and students, but like any city, precautions should be taken. Many families choose to live in low-crime neighborhoods such as Cumberland Ridge and Briarwood. Western Kentucky University (WKU) has campus security and safety programs, but students should still be cautious, especially at night.
Conclusion: Is Crime a Concern in Bowling Green?
So, is Bowling Green safe?
The answer is yes—cautiously. Bowling Green is safe in every respect except insofar as the somewhat higher incidence of property crime in the area is concerned, and even then, it’s no worse than the state average and the country’s average.
If you’re considering a move here, you will find Bowling Green to have a higher quality of life, friendly people, and a strong economy. Just be smart, be aware, and enjoy all the nice city has to offer.
Additional Resources
For more crime data and safety tips, check out these resources:
