Head-to-head · 2026
Murray State University vs University of Kentucky
Compare average net price ($9,096 at Murray State University; $18,851 at University of Kentucky), ROI score (12.30 vs 7.83), ten-year median earnings ($44,737 vs $59,025), and admissions selectivity (85.7% acceptance at Murray State University; 92.9% at University of Kentucky) using federal College Scorecard data. Murray State University has a narrow 4-3 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 | Murray State University | University of Kentucky |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 12.30 ✓ | 7.83 |
| Avg net price | $9,096 ✓ | $18,851 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $44,737 | $59,025 ✓ |
| Acceptance rate | 85.7% ✓ | 92.9% |
| Graduation rate | 61.3% | 71.4% ✓ |
| Median debt | $20,500 ✓ | $22,500 |
| Enrollment | 6,688 | 24,763 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1133 | 1215 ✓ |
| Metric advantages | 4 | 3 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
University of Kentucky costs $9,755 more per year than Murray State University ($18,851 vs $9,096). University of Kentucky graduates report $14,288 higher median earnings after ten years ($59,025 vs $44,737). On EduGradify's model that puts Murray State University ahead on projected ROI (12.30 vs 7.83, exceptional investment).
The more affordable option (Murray State University) also posts the better return, making it the lower-risk pick on cost alone. On admissions, Murray State University is accessible at 85.7% acceptance versus 92.9% (accessible) at University of Kentucky.
Frequently asked
Murray State University vs University of Kentucky, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Murray State University or University of Kentucky the better value?
Murray State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (12.30 vs 7.83), meaning its ten-year earnings go further against its net price.
Which school costs less after aid?
Murray State University is cheaper — average net price $9,096 per year vs $18,851 at University of Kentucky. The annual difference of $9,755 adds up to about $39,020 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
University of Kentucky reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $59,025 vs $44,737 at Murray State University. The annual gap in the federal data is $14,288.
Which school is harder to get into?
Murray State University is more selective at 85.7% acceptance vs 92.9% at University of Kentucky.
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. Murray State University reports a A value grade; University of Kentucky reports B.