Survey highlights rising costs, strategic adaptations, and optimism among race directors
July 29, 2025 — Running USA has released its first 2025 Industry Insight report: What Does It Cost to Put on a Road Race?, offering a detailed analysis of the operational costs, revenue trends, and future outlook for race organizers across the U.S. Based on survey responses from event professionals representing a combined 1,000+ events annually, the report sheds light on the evolving financial realities of the endurance industry. Download or purchase the report here.
The report is now available for download on the Running USA website, and a webinar Thursday, July 31 at 1pm ET will highlight key findings. Join the webinar by signing up here.
Key findings of the new report include:
● Revenue expectations remain strong: Nearly 90% of respondents expect revenue and profit margins to either increase or remain stable in 2025.
● Rising costs top concerns: 65% of race directors cite increasing costs, ranging from staffing and logistics to public safety and participant amenities, as their greatest financial challenge for the coming year.
● Average costs continue to rise: Average per-runner costs for medals, shirts, and timing add up quickly, especially for larger events. Operational expenses such as traffic control average in the tens of thousands per race.
● Adapting to market pressures: 42% of organizers report that they are raising revenue via increased registration fees and optional swag purchases.
“Event organizers are showing resilience and creativity in today’s economy,” said Michael Clemons, Operations Director and research lead at Running USA. “From small 5Ks to major marathons, they’re navigating a challenging cost landscape while continuing to deliver high-quality race experiences. By understanding what others are spending on operational costs, this report can assist race organizers be more efficient and fiscally responsible. ”
Running USA will follow this initial survey with additional insight reports focusing on staffing, sponsorship/marketing and more.
About Running USA
Running USA is a non-profit that serves as the leading trade organization for the running industry in North America and hosts the nation’s preeminent industry conference annually. Through education, research, best practices and data, Running USA is committed to supporting and facilitating growth, diversification and excitement in running communities everywhere. We promote networking and idea-sharing between event organizers, sponsors, vendors and athletes. Running USA is a member of a global alliance of organizations focused on the betterment of the global running community including the Running Industry Alliance and European Athletics. For more information, visit runningusa.org.