Head-to-head · 2026
Kentucky State University vs Murray State University
Compare average net price ($8,040 at Kentucky State University; $9,096 at Murray State University), ROI score (11.31 vs 12.30), ten-year median earnings ($36,382 vs $44,737), and admissions selectivity (96.1% acceptance at Kentucky State University; 85.7% at Murray State University) using federal College Scorecard data. Murray State University has a 6-1 metric-level edge. Murray State University leads on ROI, but the cost and earnings signals are split enough that this is not a one-metric decision.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric comparison
9 metrics, side by side. A colored cell marks a metric-level advantage. Green = lower-is-better, violet = higher-is-better.
| Metric | Kentucky State University | Murray State University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 11.31 | 12.30 ✓ |
| Avg net price | $8,040 ✓ | $9,096 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $36,382 | $44,737 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 96.1% | 85.7% ✓ |
| Graduation rate | 31.9% | 61.3% ✓ |
| Median debt | $25,938 | $20,500 ✓ |
| Enrollment | 1,309 | 6,688 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 870 | 1133 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 1 | 6 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Murray State University costs $1,056 more per year than Kentucky State University ($9,096 vs $8,040). Murray State University graduates report $8,355 higher median earnings after ten years ($44,737 vs $36,382). On EduGradify's model that puts Murray State University ahead on projected ROI (12.30 vs 11.31, exceptional investment).
The pricier option (Murray State University) still wins on return, because stronger graduate salaries outweigh its higher net price. On admissions, Kentucky State University is accessible at 96.1% acceptance versus 85.7% (accessible) at Murray State University.
Frequently asked
Kentucky State University vs Murray State University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Kentucky State University or Murray State University the better value?
Murray State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (12.30 vs 11.31), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Kentucky State University is cheaper — average net price $8,040 per year vs $9,096 at Murray State University. The annual difference of $1,056 adds up to about $4,224 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Murray State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $44,737 vs $36,382 at Kentucky State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $8,355.
Which school is harder to get into?
Murray State University is more selective at 85.7% acceptance vs 96.1% at Kentucky State University.
What should I compare beyond ROI?
Use the ROI score as a value screen, then compare aid letters, program fit, graduation rate, location, campus size, and debt. Kentucky State University reports a A value grade; Murray State University reports A.