College Costs in Murray, KY 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 3 colleges in Murray, Kentucky. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$9,456
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,847
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$817
per month
Colleges & Universities
3
institutions
Murray Overview
Population
19,254
Student Population
861 (4.5%)
Cost of Living Index
80 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
51/100
Transit Score
28/100
Unemployment Rate
6.9%
College Cost Calculator for Murray
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$74,120
Total After Financial Aid
$74,120
Annual Cost
$18,530
Annual After Aid
$18,530
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $74,120 |
| Monthly Payment | $842 |
| Total Interest | $26,874 |
| Total Loan Cost | $100,994 |
Universities in Murray
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Murray State University | Public | $9,456 |
| West Kentucky Community and Technical College | Community | $4,680 |
Murray has 3 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Murray vs. National Average
| Category | Murray | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $9,456 | $10,940 | -$1,484 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $817 | $1,050 | -$233 |
| Cost of Living Index | 80 | 100 | -20 |
Murray's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Murray
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
861 students
Murray has a total population of 19,254, with approximately 861 college students (4.5% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Murray offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Murray
$48,352
Starting Salary
6.9%
Unemployment Rate
69%
Graduation Rate
~6 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Murray earn a median starting salary of $48,352, which is $13,352 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $74,120 (including room and board), it would take approximately 6 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,524 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
Other Cities in Kentucky
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Calculators
Explore 350+ Cities Across the U.S.
Compare college costs, housing, and student life in every major U.S. city.
Browse All Cities