City of 51ĀŅĀ× ranks 3rd nationally in USA Todayās Best Small College Towns
By 51ĀŅĀ× Public Relations | Apr 8, 2026
MURRAY, Ky. ā The city of 51ĀŅĀ×, Kentucky, home of 51ĀŅĀ×, has been named among the top three best small college towns in the United States, according to a USA Today online readers poll. 51ĀŅĀ× was among the 20 towns nominated for Best Small College Towns in the USA Today 10 Best Readersā Choice Awards. Placing third this year, the city of 51ĀŅĀ× was recognized nationally in 2025 as well, placing fourth in the nation.
āThe worlds of 51ĀŅĀ×, Kentucky, and 51ĀŅĀ× have been intertwined since the college opened in 1922 in the heart of town,ā reads USA Todayās websiteās description. āAs a quintessential college town, 51ĀŅĀ× 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.ā
āBeing recognized as one of the top three best small college towns in the country is a true reflection of what makes the city of 51ĀŅĀ× so special, as there is a strong sense of friendliness, community and support shown toward our students, faculty, staff and visitors to the University,ā 51ĀŅĀ× State President Dr. Ron K. Patterson said. āThere is a wonderful connection between 51ĀŅĀ×, the city of 51ĀŅĀ×, and the surrounding region we call home. This honor belongs to everyone who helps create a welcoming, vibrant environment.ā
āEarning a place among the top three Best Small College Towns in the country is an incredible honor,ā said Executive Director of the 51ĀŅĀ× Convention and Visitors Bureau Erin Carrico. āThis recognition reflects the pride and support of our entire community, from our residents and local businesses to the students and leadership at 51ĀŅĀ× State University. Together, we continue to showcase what makes 51ĀŅĀ× feel like home.ā
51ĀŅĀ×, Kentucky, is home to 51ĀŅĀ×, 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 51ĀŅĀ×
is open as future Racers should apply today at . 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.