Head-to-head · 2026
Murray State University vs Western Kentucky University
Compare average net price ($9,096 at Murray State University; $10,990 at Western Kentucky University), ROI score (12.30 vs 9.98), ten-year median earnings ($44,737 vs $43,889), and admissions selectivity (85.7% acceptance at Murray State University; 93.9% at Western Kentucky University) using federal College Scorecard data. Murray State University has a 7-0 metric-level edge. Murray State University has the stronger ROI signal here, though the final choice should still account for aid, major and campus fit.
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 | Western Kentucky University |
|---|---|---|
| ROI score | 12.30 ✓ | 9.98 |
| Avg net price | $9,096 ✓ | $10,990 |
| Median earnings (10y) | $44,737 ✓ | $43,889 |
| Acceptance rate | 85.7% ✓ | 93.9% |
| Graduation rate | 61.3% ✓ | 55.6% |
| Median debt | $20,500 ✓ | $22,095 |
| Enrollment | 6,688 | 12,155 |
| Ownership | Public | Public |
| Avg SAT | 1133 ✓ | 971 |
| Metric advantages | 7 | 0 |
Value readout
Where each school has the edge
Western Kentucky University costs $1,894 more per year than Murray State University ($10,990 vs $9,096). Murray State University graduates report $848 higher median earnings after ten years ($44,737 vs $43,889). On EduGradify's model that puts Murray State University ahead on projected ROI (12.30 vs 9.98, 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 93.9% (accessible) at Western Kentucky University.
Frequently asked
Murray State University vs Western Kentucky University, answered
5 of the most common questions, with real numbers from federal data.
Is Murray State University or Western Kentucky University the better value?
Murray State University has the higher EduGradify ROI score (12.30 vs 9.98), 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 $10,990 at Western Kentucky University. The annual difference of $1,894 adds up to about $7,576 over four years.
Which school reports higher earnings?
Murray State University reports higher median earnings ten years after entry: $44,737 vs $43,889 at Western Kentucky University. The annual gap in the federal data is $848.
Which school is harder to get into?
Murray State University is more selective at 85.7% acceptance vs 93.9% at Western Kentucky 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. Murray State University reports a A value grade; Western Kentucky University reports B.