Is Campbellsville Safe, Pros and cons of living in Campbellsville
Campbellsville, Kentucky, offers a glimpse into the heart of south-central Kentucky, characterized by its rich history and a community that values its local heritage. This city, founded in the early 19th century, has evolved from a regional center of industry to a modern community that balances tradition with contemporary living. Its strategic location within the state provides a unique setting for residents and visitors alike, blending the charm of a small town with access to broader opportunities.
The city’s identity is deeply intertwined with its historical roots, evident in its architecture and the enduring spirit of its residents. Campbellsville’s development over the centuries reflects the broader economic and social shifts that have shaped Kentucky, from its agricultural beginnings to its current diverse economy. This historical context provides a foundation for understanding the community’s present-day character and its aspirations for the future.
Is it Safe to Live in Campbellsville?
Campbellsville presents a crime rate that is considered moderate, with an overall crime rate that is 38% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes). In a typical year, the crime rate is about 27.27 per 1,000 residents (according to Augurisk). Residents generally perceive the northwest part of the city as the safest area, with crime risk varying by neighborhood (according to Augurisk, NeighborhoodScout).
When examining crime statistics, it’s important to note discrepancies in reporting. Some sources indicate that Campbellsville has a crime rate that is considerably higher than the national average, while others state it is lower. For instance, one analysis suggests that Campbellsville is not among the safest communities in America and has a crime rate higher than 86% of Kentucky’s cities (according to NeighborhoodScout). Conversely, another report indicates that Campbellsville’s overall crime rate is 38.4% lower than the national average, with violent crimes being 36% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes).
The chance of being a victim of crime in Campbellsville varies. Your chance of being a victim of violent crime is approximately 1 in 438, and the chance of being a victim of property crime is about 1 in 94 (according to NeighborhoodScout). The cost of crime per resident is estimated at $413 per year, which is less than the national and state averages (according to Augurisk).
Cost of Living in Campbellsville
Campbellsville offers a cost of living that is notably more affordable than the national average. The overall cost of living index in Campbellsville is 89, which is 11% lower than the national average (according to AreaVibes). This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, making it an attractive option for those seeking to manage expenses.
Housing costs in Campbellsville are significantly lower than the national average. The median home price is approximately $208,000, showing a year-over-year increase of 7.6% (according to Realtor.com). Median rent prices are around $1,150 per month, which is 41% lower than the national average (according to Zumper). These housing costs contribute substantially to the city’s overall affordability.
Beyond housing, other essential expenses are also more budget-friendly. Food costs are more affordable than the U.S. average, as are transportation and healthcare costs (according to ERI Economic Research Institute). This comprehensive affordability means that a larger portion of income can be allocated to savings or discretionary spending.
Housing Market and Rental Trends
The housing market in Campbellsville presents a balanced scenario, with supply and demand for homes being roughly equal as of March 2026 (according to realtor.com). The median listing price for homes is around $239.9K, indicating a market that supports seller expectations while requiring buyers to be prepared with strong offers (according to realtor.com).
Rental trends in Campbellsville show a median rent price of approximately $1,150 per month (according to realtor.com). For those looking to rent, the median household income for renters is around $30,711, with housing expenses representing about 26.8% of their earnings (according to Point2Homes). This rent-to-income ratio suggests that renting is relatively accessible for many residents.
Homes for sale in Campbellsville have seen a slight decrease in the median days on market, signaling a faster turnover than in previous years, which encourages buyers to act quickly on desirable properties (according to realtor.com). The median home price has seen a year-over-year increase, with a 1-year price projection suggesting a continued increase in the housing market (according to Realtor.com).
Job Market and Major Employers
Campbellsville’s economy is supported by a diverse range of employers, with Campbellsville University, Taylor Regional Hospital, and an Amazon fulfillment center being among the top employers (according to Wikipedia). These key institutions play a significant role in the local employment landscape, providing various opportunities across different sectors.
The job market in Campbellsville shows a growth in employment, with an increase of 3.05% from the previous year (according to Data USA). The most common job sectors for residents include production occupations, education, and management roles (according to Data USA). This distribution indicates a workforce engaged in both manufacturing and service-oriented industries.
The average salary in Campbellsville, KY, is approximately $34,000 per year, with an hourly average of $16.00 (according to Zippia). While the average salary is around $35,171 annually, the majority of salaries range between $30,000 and $36,500 (according to ZipRecruiter). This salary range, combined with the lower cost of living, provides a reasonable standard of living for residents.
Climate and Weather
Campbellsville experiences a climate that includes warm, humid summers and very cold winters, with the weather being generally wet and partly cloudy throughout the year (according to Time and Date). Temperatures typically fluctuate between 28°F and 87°F over the course of the year, rarely dropping below 11°F or exceeding 93°F (according to Time and Date).
The summer months, particularly from July to August, can feel uncomfortably humid (according to myPerfectWeather). The hottest month is typically July, with average high temperatures around 86°F and lows of 67°F (according to Time and Date). The average annual precipitation is about 53 inches, with May being the wettest month, receiving an average of 4.6 inches of rain (according to myPerfectWeather, Time and Date).
Winters are cold, with January being the coldest month, featuring average highs of 44°F and lows of 25°F (according to myPerfectWeather). Campbellsville receives an average of 10 inches of snowfall annually (according to myPerfectWeather). The city experiences approximately 141 days per year with comfortable weather, generally between mid-April to June and September to October (according to myPerfectWeather).
Education and School Ratings
Campbellsville is served by two main school districts: Taylor County Schools and Campbellsville Independent Schools. Taylor County High School is a notable institution, ranked 60th out of 254 high schools in Kentucky, holding a 4-star rating (according to SchoolDigger). This school demonstrates strong performance, with over 50% of students proficient in key subjects and a high graduation rate of 93.5% (according to SchoolDigger).
Taylor County Elementary School also performs well, ranking 249th out of 685 elementary schools in Kentucky and earning a 3-star rating, with particular strength in reading and math (according to SchoolDigger). Campbellsville High School, part of the Campbellsville Independent Schools district, holds a B+ overall Niche grade and serves 345 students with a 15:1 student-teacher ratio (according to Niche).
However, schools in Campbellsville face challenges, including high chronic absenteeism rates exceeding 25% across all schools, which may impact student learning (according to SchoolDigger). The Campbellsville Independent School District is recognized for its diversity, ranking 24th among school districts in Kentucky for diversity (according to Niche).
Demographics
Campbellsville is home to approximately 11,622 residents, with a projected population of 12,013 in 2026 (according to Data USA, Campbellsville, KY Population 2026). The city’s population has seen a slight increase, growing by 5.07% since the 2020 census (according to Campbellsville, KY Population 2026). The median age in Campbellsville is 37.2 years (according to Campbellsville, KY Population 2026).
The racial makeup of Campbellsville is predominantly White, accounting for about 81.16%, followed by Black or African American at 9.7% (according to Campbellsville, KY Population 2026). Other racial groups, including those of Two or More races, Asian, and other races, constitute smaller percentages of the population (according to Campbellsville, KY Population 2026).
The median household income in Campbellsville is $49,644 (according to Data USA). A portion of the population, 13.3%, lives below the poverty line (according to Campbellsville, KY Population 2026). The gender distribution shows more males than females, with 105.9 males for every 100 females (according to Campbellsville, KY Population 2026).
Pros and Cons of Living in Campbellsville
Campbellsville offers a lower cost of living, with housing expenses being particularly attractive. The city’s affordability makes it a desirable location for individuals and families looking to stretch their budgets further. The community also boasts a stable job market with key employers in education and healthcare.
On the other hand, Campbellsville faces challenges such as a moderate crime rate and the need for improvements in its educational system, particularly regarding chronic absenteeism. While the cost of living is low, the average salary might be a consideration for those accustomed to higher earning potential in larger metropolitan areas.
The climate in Campbellsville, with its warm, humid summers and cold winters, may not appeal to everyone. However, the city’s overall appeal lies in its small-town charm, historical significance, and the strong sense of community that residents often describe as a major advantage.