Murray State University Athletics
City of Murray Ranks Third Nationally in USA Today’s Best Small College Towns
4/8/2026 10:42:00 AM | General
Murray moves up one spot from a year ago
The city of Murray, Kentucky, home of Murray State University, has been named among the top three best small college towns in the United States, according to a USA Today online readers poll. Murray was among the 20 towns nominated for Best Small College Towns in the USA Today 10 Best Readers' Choice Awards. Placing third this year, the city of Murray was recognized nationally in 2025 as well, placing fourth in the nation.
"The worlds of Murray, Kentucky, and Murray State University have been intertwined since the college opened in 1922 in the heart of town," reads USA Today's website's description. "As a quintessential college town, Murray has lots of pubs and bars, casual restaurants run by local owners, and outdoor outfitters to keep everyone enjoying the local parks, which offer amenities like disc golf, a skate park, and a huge soccer complex. Non-collegiate visitors love the famed Calloway County Quilt Trail, which features more than 60 quilt patterns painted on barns, homes, and other buildings throughout the countryside."
"Being recognized as one of the top three best small college towns in the country is a true reflection of what makes the city of Murray so special, as there is a strong sense of friendliness, community and support shown toward our students, faculty, staff and visitors to the University," Murray State President Dr. Ron K. Patterson said. "There is a wonderful connection between Murray State University, the city of Murray, and the surrounding region we call home. This honor belongs to everyone who helps create a welcoming, vibrant environment."
"Earning a place among the top three Best Small College Towns in the country is an incredible honor," said Executive Director of the Murray Convention and Visitors Bureau Erin Carrico. "This recognition reflects the pride and support of our entire community, from our residents and local businesses to the students and leadership at Murray State University. Together, we continue to showcase what makes Murray feel like home."
"Murray, Kentucky, is an incredibly special community and it is not a surprise that we were voted as one of the top-three Best Small College Towns in the country," Director of Athletics Nico Yantko said. "Our region is growing at a rapid pace thanks to the strong alignment we have from our community and campus leadership, and every single person who calls Murray home. Murray State Athletics is privileged to play a role in continuing to elevate the profile of our city, county and region to a national audience every year, and on behalf of everyone within our department, we want to congratulate everyone who made this tremendous milestone a reality."
Murray, Kentucky, is home to Murray State University, a nationally recognized institution with a 30+ year consecutive streak of top-tier rankings by U.S. News & World Report. Founded in 1922, the University is a comprehensive institution with 148 academic programs, a total enrollment of nearly 10,000 students, a member of the NCAA Division I ranks, and has more than 80,000 alumni throughout the world.
Admission for the fall 2026 semester and 2026-27 academic year at Murray State University is open as future Racers should apply today at admissions.murraystate.edu. Students interested in joining the Racer family can also learn more as well as schedule a campus visit by calling the office of recruitment at 270-809-2896 or emailing msu.recruitment@murraystate.
