LA vs NYC Marathon — Which Should You Run?

Compare the LA Marathon and NYC Marathon — West Coast sunshine vs East Coast spectacle. Course profile, weather, entry process, and city atmosphere side by side.

Quick Comparison

Feature 2027 LA Marathon - Mar 7 2026 NYC Marathon - Nov 1
Country/RegionUSAUSA
MonthMarchNovember
Avg Temperature12-20°C5-12°C
Course TypeNet DownhillHilly
Elevation~130m net downhill~250m total
Field Size27,00053,000
EntryOpen EntryLottery + Time + Charity
World MajorNoYes
BQ CourseNoNo
Crowd SupportGoodLegendary

Detailed Comparison

The LA Marathon and NYC Marathon represent America's two largest cities and two very different marathon philosophies. LA's point-to-point course runs from Dodger Stadium to Santa Monica in March sunshine, following a net-downhill profile (~130m drop) through Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and along the coast. NYC's five-borough route tackles ~250m of total elevation in November cold, crossing the Verrazzano Bridge, Queensboro Bridge, and finishing in Central Park.

The race-day experiences are worlds apart. LA is sun-soaked and relaxed — a California celebration with ocean views and celebrity sightings. NYC is intense and electric — 1 million+ spectators creating a wall of sound across five boroughs with legendary crowd support that pushes you through every mile. NYC is a World Marathon Major; LA is not, but offers its own unique West Coast identity.

Entry for LA is open registration — anyone can sign up, no lottery needed. NYC requires a competitive lottery, qualifying time, or charity commitment. For runners who want a guaranteed entry to a scenic, sunshine-filled marathon, LA is the easy choice. For those who want the world's most iconic big-city marathon experience, NYC is the ultimate goal. Use our What to Wear tool to plan for each climate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is harder, LA or NYC Marathon?

NYC is harder despite LA's longer course. NYC has ~250m of total elevation with major bridge climbs, while LA has ~130m of net downhill. LA's downhill can be deceptively tough on quads, but NYC's accumulated climbing is more taxing overall. Use our Elevation Adjusted Pace tool for both courses.

Which is easier to get into?

LA is far easier — open registration with no lottery. NYC is one of the hardest marathons in the world to enter, requiring lottery luck, a qualifying time, or $2,500+ charity fundraising. If entry certainty matters, choose LA.

How does the weather differ?

LA in March averages 12-20°C with sunshine and low humidity — warm but manageable for early starters. NYC in November averages 5-12°C — cold, often windy, but excellent for fast running. LA's heat risk is higher; NYC's wind chill is the concern. Check conditions with our Weather Race Score tool.

Can I qualify for Boston at either race?

Neither is ideal for BQ attempts. LA's net-downhill profile and NYC's hills both work against fast times. For a BQ, consider flat courses like Chicago or Houston. Check your target with our Boston Qualifying Calculator.

Which city is a better marathon travel destination?

Both are world-class destinations but very different. NYC offers fall foliage, Broadway shows, and iconic neighborhoods. LA offers beaches, Hollywood, and perfect weather. NYC is more walkable; LA requires a car. For international visitors, NYC typically edges ahead for the overall marathon-trip experience.

Prepare for Your Marathon

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