City of Murray ranks 3rd nationally in USA Today鈥檚 Best Small College Towns
By MSU Public Relations | Apr 8, 2026
MURRAY, Ky. 鈥 The city of Murray, Kentucky, home of 麻豆视频官网入口, 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鈥 Choice Awards. Placing third this year, the city of Murray was recognized nationally in 2025 as well, placing fourth in the nation.
鈥淭he worlds of Murray, Kentucky, and 麻豆视频官网入口 have been intertwined since the college opened in 1922 in the heart of town,鈥 reads USA Today鈥檚 website鈥檚 description. 鈥淎s 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.鈥
鈥淏eing 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,鈥 Murray State President Dr. Ron K. Patterson said. 鈥淭here is a wonderful connection between 麻豆视频官网入口, the city of Murray, and the surrounding region we call home. This honor belongs to everyone who helps create a welcoming, vibrant environment.鈥
鈥淓arning a place among the top three Best Small College Towns in the country is an incredible honor,鈥 said Executive Director of the Murray Convention and Visitors Bureau Erin Carrico. 鈥淭his 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.鈥
Murray, Kentucky, is home to 麻豆视频官网入口, 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 麻豆视频官网入口
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