Study Finds Greater St. Louis Marathon Generates More Than $4.5 Million in Annual Economic Activity

March 24, 2026

Sports tourism and out-of-town runners drive the majority of economic impact

ST. LOUIS (March 24, 2026) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ — A recent economic impact analysis finds that the Greater St. Louis Marathon and associated events generate more than $4.5 million in annual economic activity within the City of St. Louis, underscoring the growing role of endurance events in the region’s sports tourism economy.

The study, conducted by Saint Louis University’s Community Planning Lab, analyzed marathon data from 2023 through 2025 and evaluated both direct spending and ripple effects throughout the local economy. The research found that the event generates approximately $1.94 million in direct spending each year, supporting businesses ranging from hotels and restaurants to retail shops and entertainment venues.

Out-of-town runners play a critical role in the event’s economic impact. According to the study, more than 70% of the marathon’s economic activity comes from visiting participants, bringing new spending into the region.

“Running is booming and races like our marathon, half marathon, 10K and 5K are growing in popularity as destination events across the U.S.,” said Mona Vespa, President of GO! St. Louis, the organization that produces the marathon and other running events throughout the year. “We are proud to be not only an opportunity to enhance participants’ health and fitness but provide an economic boost to the city of St. Louis and surrounding area.”

On average, visiting runners travel with a group of 2.56 people, stay just over two nights in St. Louis, and spend about $690 per trip on lodging, dining, and local attractions. Collectively, these visitors generate roughly $1.35 million in annual spending for local businesses.

The economic activity tied to the marathon also supports jobs throughout the region. Researchers estimate that marathon-related activity contributes to approximately 27 jobs statewide, primarily in hospitality, food service, and retail industries connected to tourism.

The event’s success also relies heavily on community participation. Volunteers contribute an average of 2,275 hours each year, equivalent to about 1.1 full-time employees, representing more than $31,000 in annual economic value.

Held each April, the Greater St. Louis Marathon is one of the region’s largest running events, drawing thousands of runners and spectators for a weekend that includes a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, and family-friendly races. Organized by the nonprofit GO! St. Louis, the event has become a long-standing community tradition while serving as a catalyst for tourism and economic activity across the metropolitan area.

The 2026 Greater St. Louis Marathon weekend is scheduled for April 11, bringing runners, spectators, and visitors from across the region and beyond. Registration is still available here.

For more information, visit www.gostlouis.org.

About GO! St. Louis

GO! St. Louis is a nonprofit organization that encourages individuals and families in the St. Louis region to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle year-round through community collaborations, school-based programming and the creation of accessible fitness events.