51ĀŅĀ×

City of 51ĀŅĀ× ranks 3rd nationally in USA Today’s Best Small College Towns

By 51ĀŅĀ× Public Relations | Apr 8, 2026

photo of downtown 51ĀŅĀ× with parked cars

 

MURRAY, Ky. — 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 Readers’ Choice Awards. Placing third this year, the city of 51ĀŅĀ× was recognized nationally in 2025 as well, placing fourth in the nation. 

ā€œThe worlds of 51ĀŅĀ×, Kentucky, and 51ĀŅĀ× have been intertwined since the college opened in 1922 in the heart of town,ā€ reads USA Today’s website’s description. ā€œAs 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€

ā€œBeing 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. ā€œThere 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€

ā€œEarning 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. ā€œThis 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.edu.

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