Bank of America Chicago, on this goal. It has the easier course — and against Ascension Seton Austin that is the difference that actually shows up in your finish time.
Build the plan →| A fast time / Boston | Bank of America Chicago | flatter course, cooler typical morning |
| A first marathon | Bank of America Chicago | more forgiving on debut day |
| Easiest entry | Ascension Seton Austin | less lottery / qualifier friction |
| Crowd & support | Bank of America Chicago | bigger field, more on-course energy |
| Lower trip cost | Ascension Seton Austin | cheaper all-in from South Florida |
Race-morning figures are 10-year history normals, not forecasts. Cost and travel are estimated from South Florida; your own origin may flip the trip-cost row. Full method on the methodology page.
| Score (10 = easiest) | Ascension Seton Austin Marathon | Bank of America Chicago Marathon |
|---|---|---|
| Green Score (overall) | 8.0 | 8.1 |
| First-timer score | 8.2 | 8.9 |
| Terrain | 6.9 | 9.2 |
| Climate | 10.0 | 9.0 |
| Entry | 10.0 | 6.0 |
| Travel | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Field & support | 6.5 | 10.0 |
| Distance | marathon | marathon |
| Date | February 14, 2027 | October 11, 2026 |
| Location | Austin, TX | Chicago, IL |
| Typical race-day weather (normal) | 46°F / dew 42°F | 56°F / dew 50°F |
| Elevation gain | 984 ft | 243 ft |
| Field size | 4,500 | 52,150 |
| Entry | open | lottery |
| Entry fee | $160 | $250 |
| Boston qualifier course | Yes | Yes |
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