Murray, KY demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,080
1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$44,091/yr
9.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,844
0.9% year-over-year change

Murray population

How many people live in Murray

Murray is home to 18,080 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.4% of Murray locals are male, and 53.6% are female.

Total population
18,080
1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.4%
8,396
Female
53.6%
9,684
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,396 46.4% 1.1%
Female 9,684 53.6% 1.1%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Murray is 26, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.3% are children under 15, then 35.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.8% of the population, while another 17.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 13.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
25.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.3%
15 to 24
35.1%
25 to 44
20.8%
45 to 64
17.8%
Over 65
13.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,409 13.3% -3.0%
15 to 24 6,339 35.1% 1.3%
25 to 44 3,752 20.8% -4.6%
45 to 64 3,216 17.8% 6.7%
Over 65 2,364 13.1% 7.5%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Murray, 94.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 82.7% of locals are Caucasian, 6.9% are African American and 3.6% have Asian roots. Another 0.3% are Indigenous American, 0.5% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.1% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 3.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.6%
Non-citizens
3.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,034 94.2% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 464 2.6% -10.8%
Non-citizens 582 3.2% 23.8%
Racial breakdown
White
82.7%
Black or African American
6.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
3.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.5%
Two or more races
3.9%
Other
2.1%
Value Percent
White 14,957 82.7%
Black or African American 1,245 6.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 53 0.3%
Asian 647 3.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 93 0.5%
Two or more races 702 3.9%
Other 383 2.1%

Households in Murray

A peek inside Murray households

Murray has 6,802 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 48.4% are families, while the remaining 51.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,802
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,510
Family households
3,292
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,510 51.6% 1.6%
Family households 3,292 48.4% 2.2%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Murray

The housing landscape of Murray

Murray's housing consists of 7,844 units, with 51.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 4.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,844
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,013 51.2%
1 unit, attached 173 2.2%
2 units 1,100 14%
3 or 4 units 930 11.9%
5 to 9 units 933 11.9%
10 to 19 units 189 2.4%
20 to 49 units 89 1.1%
50 or more units 38 0.5%
Mobile home 379 4.8%
Homes built since 2020
182
7.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Murray

In Murray, the median construction year is 1980. About 5.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 417 5.3% 11.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 209 2.7% -31.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 856 10.9% 16.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,191 15.2% 15.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,304 16.6% 4.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 934 11.9% 1.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,024 13% -22.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 906 11.6% 8.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 821 10.5% -1.0%
Built in 2020 or later 182 2.3% 7.7%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Murray occupancy rates

Out of the 6,802 occupied housing units in Murray, 41.7% are owner-occupied, while 58.3% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,802
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,968
Owner occupied
2,834
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,968 58.3% 1.2%
Owner occupied 2,834 41.7% 3.0%
Unoccupied housing units
13.3%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Murray housing costs

Housing costs in Murray come to a median of $860 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $870.

Median housing costs per month
$860/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Murray
$870/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Murray

Murray education at a glance

About 34.2% of the population in Murray went to high school, while 33.5% pursued college studies. Another 4.7% earned an associate degree and 16.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 268 1.8% -7.6%
High school diploma 5,223 34.2% 10.3%
College diploma 5,112 33.5% -4.6%
Associate degree 712 4.7% -8.0%
Bachelor's degree 2,465 16.2% 5.6%
Graduate degree 1,476 9.7% -4.9%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Murray

How much people earn in Murray

The average annual household income in Murray was $65,349 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $44,091, reflecting a +9.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Murray
$65,349/year
3.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Murray
$44,091/year
9.3% year-over-year change

Murray income by age

In Murray, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $44,978. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $49,904 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $25,276, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,286 in earnings. Overall, 75.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $25,276 3.6%
25 - 44 $44,978 11.6%
45 - 64 $49,904 -16.6%
Over 65 $46,286 3.4%
Above poverty level
11,483
Below poverty level
3,647
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,483 75.9% 3.4%
Below poverty level 3,647 24.1% -1.1%

Average renter income in Murray

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Murray, their median household income was $28,187 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 37%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$28,187
Rent-to-income ratio
37%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Murray

Workforce and job types in Murray

The job market in Murray is powered by 8,270 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.9% run their own businesses, 67.3% are employed by private companies, and 17% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,270
-0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
6,529
Blue collar
1,741
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,529 79% 1.3%
Blue collar 1,741 21% -7.0%
Employer type
Self employees
7.9%
Private companies
67.3%
Governmental workers
17%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 651 7.9% 39.4%
Private companies 5,568 67.3% -1.8%
Governmental workers 1,405 17% -13.5%
Not for profit companies 646 7.8% 16.8%
Unemployment rate
5.8%
17.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Murray stands at 5.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Murray

How people get around in Murray

Commuting methods vary: 80% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 12.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,512 80% 2.4%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0% -77.8%
Motorcycle 35 0.4% -18.6%
Bicycle 10 0.1% -77.3%
Walk 1,021 12.5% -17.6%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Murray by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
42071 30,981 12,127 $50,198 $71,538

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FAQs about Murray demographics 

What is the total population of Murray?

Murray has a total population of 18,080 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Murray?

The gender ratio in Murray is as follows:
  • 46.4% males (8,396 residents)
  • 53.6% females (9,684 residents)

What is the median age in Murray?

The median age in Murray is 25.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Murray?

The age distribution in Murray is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.3% (2,409 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 35.1% (6,339 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.8% (3,752 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 17.8% (3,216 residents)
  • Over 65: 13.1% (2,364 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Murray?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Murray is as follows:
  • White: 82.7% (14,957 residents)
  • Black or African American: 6.9% (1,245 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (53 residents)
  • Asian: 3.6% (647 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.5% (93 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.9% (702 residents)
  • Other: 2.1% (383 residents)

What percentage of the population in Murray are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.2% of the population in Murray.

How many housing units are there in Murray?

There are 7,844 housing units in Murray, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Murray and what is the average household size?

Murray has a total of 6,802 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Murray?

Murray has a median household income of $44,091, representing a +9.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Murray?

The employment rate is 94.2% in Murray, with a workforce of 8,270 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79% (6,529 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21% (1,741 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.9% (651 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.3% (5,568 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17% (1,405 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (646 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025