There's no single “better” race — it depends on what you want out of the day. Chicago is great first half (forgiving course, some friction); United Airlines NYC is beginner-friendly half (moderate course, high friction). Here's who wins by goal.
| If your goal is… | Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| A fast time / Boston | Chicago | flatter course, cooler typical morning |
| A first marathon | Chicago | more forgiving on debut day |
| Easiest entry | Chicago | less lottery / qualifier friction |
| Crowd & support | United Airlines NYC | bigger field, more on-course energy |
| Lower trip cost | Chicago | cheaper all-in from South Florida |
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) | Chicago Half Marathon | United Airlines NYC Half |
|---|---|---|
| Green Score (overall) | 8.4 | 7.3 |
| First-timer score | 8.9 | 7.9 |
| Terrain | 9.6 | 6.3 |
| Climate | 8.0 | 10.0 |
| Entry | 10.0 | 5.2 |
| Travel | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Field & support | 8.5 | 9.0 |
| Distance | half marathon | half marathon |
| Date | September 27, 2026 | March 14, 2027 |
| Location | Chicago, IL | New York, NY |
| Typical race-day weather (10-yr) | 60°F / dew 52°F | 40°F / dew 28°F |
| Elevation gain | 148 ft | 574 ft |
| Field size | 6,000 | 25,000 |
| Entry | open | lottery |
| Entry fee | $135 | $150 |
| Boston qualifier course | No | No |
Sign in and connect Strava to see your projected finish time and qualifying odds at both races — heat- and course-adjusted to race day.