What to know when moving to Murray, KY
Murray at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 40% of residents are renters and the median household income is $48,976.
- The Major Draw:
- Murray State University serves as a significant educational hub in the area.
- The Reality Check:
- With an 18.2% poverty rate, budget-conscious planning is essential.
- Commute:
- Only 0.1% of residents use public transit.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for 40.8 inches of rain annually, so invest in good rain gear.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Murray has a population of approximately 30,750 people, with 34.9% holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The median gross rent is $841, and the median home value is $188,700. The community shows a significant renter presence, with 40% renting their homes. The climate features an average annual precipitation of 40.8 inches, indicating a need for rain preparedness.
Probably not your spot if you are looking for robust public transport options, as only 0.1% of residents commute via public transit.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $841, while median owner-occupied home value is $188,700.
- 34.9% of the population holds a bachelor's degree or higher, indicating a relatively educated community.
- The poverty rate is 18.2%, suggesting some financial challenges in the area.
- 40% of residents are renters, showing a mix of housing arrangements.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Kentucky's crime statistics show a mixed picture, with property crime rates declining significantly. The annual property crime rate is 1,212 per 100,000 residents, which is 21.6% lower than the national average. Violent crime also trends favorably, with a rate of 198.5 per 100,000, representing a 39% decrease from the national rate.
- Violent crime: 198.5 per 100,000 (vs. national average of 325.3)
- Property crime: 1,212 per 100,000 (vs. national average of 1,546.9)
- Notable trend: Homicide rate has dropped 63.8% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Kentucky).
Schools & Higher Ed
Murray is home to one postsecondary institution, which is Murray State University, located within the same county.
- Postsecondary institutions: 1
- With College Scorecard data: 1
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Murray experiences an annual average temperature with highs reaching 78°F and lows around 36°F. The area sees about 40.8 inches of rainfall each year, with around 75 rainy days. Snowfall is minimal, averaging just 0.4 inches annually.
- Parks & outdoor spots worth checking out:
- Kenlake State Resort Park - 4.4 stars (726 reviews)
- Murray-Calloway County Dog Park - 4.5 stars (157 reviews)
- Playhouse In the Park - 4.8 stars (141 reviews)
- Waters Edge RV Park and Marina - 4.8 stars (96 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
The job market in Calloway County shows a labor force of 16,894 people, with an unemployment rate of 4.0% as of December 2025.
- Unemployment rate: 4.0% (December 2025)
- Employed: 16,218
- Labor force: 16,894
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.