Head-to-head · 2026
Murray State University vs Western Kentucky University
Side-by-side ROI breakdown. 7 wins for Murray State University, 0 for Western Kentucky University — Murray State University has more metric-level advantages.
Face to face
Metric-by-metric, winner flagged
9 metrics, side by side. The colored cell wins. Green = lower-is-better wins, indigo = higher-is-better wins.
| 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 |
| Wins | 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.