The Boston Marathon, held annually on Patriots’ Day, is more than just a historic event in the running world—it is a key economic driver for Boston and the surrounding region. The 2024 edition of the race, which took place on April 15, attracted thousands of runners and spectators from around the world and generated significant economic benefits for the city. This year’s marathon once again demonstrated the profound economic impact that the event has on Boston, with millions of dollars flowing into the local economy.
A Global Event with Local Economic Benefits
The 2024 Boston Marathon, with its iconic route from Hopkinton to Boylston Street via Heartbreak Hill, brought together nearly 30,000 runners from around the globe. The event also attracted an estimated 500,000 spectators who lined the 26.2-mile course, creating an exciting atmosphere in the city.
According to a newly released economic report, the 2024 marathon generated an estimated $227 million in economic activity for Massachusetts. This included spending on travel, lodging, dining, and other services. The marathon’s far-reaching impact was felt not just in the city of Boston but across the Greater Boston area and beyond. The influx of international and domestic visitors had a ripple effect on local businesses and tourism-related industries.
Direct and Indirect Economic Contributions
The marathon’s economic benefits can be divided into two main categories: direct and indirect contributions. Direct contributions include the spending by participants, spectators, and visitors. Runners and their families often stay in hotels, dine at local restaurants, and use transportation services, all of which generate immediate revenue for Boston’s economy.
Hotels in Boston experienced a significant increase in demand, with many establishments seeing near-full occupancy rates. In fact, hotels within a 10-mile radius of the racecourse reported a 90% occupancy rate during race weekend. Room rates also generally increase during the marathon period, so the benefits are clear: local hotels earn millions of dollars from out-of-town visitors. Additionally, spectators visiting the city for the race contributed to a surge in restaurant reservations and retail shopping, generating millions in additional direct revenue for businesses.
Beyond the direct spending by visitors, the marathon also generated substantial indirect benefits. Local businesses that supply goods and services to the event—such as food vendors, security companies, and transportation providers—also enjoyed a boost. Public transportation services saw a marked increase in ridership, with over 500,000 commuters using the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) during race weekend.
The marathon also got considerable global media attention, which helped promote Boston as a destination city. This media coverage is not just confined to the event itself; it sparks interest in Boston year-round, increasing tourism and sustaining these economic benefits in the long term.
Long-Term Benefits for Local Businesses
The marathon’s impact extends well beyond the immediate event. The race plays a crucial role in Boston’s reputation as a top-tier tourist destination. Many visitors who come for the marathon return later in the year to explore the city further. In 2024, over 20% of visitors to Boston during the marathon weekend reported that they had either visited or planned to return to Boston for other vacations within the year.
Retailers, especially those near the marathon route and in the downtown area, also benefit significantly. Boston’s famed restaurant scene sees an uptick in customers during the marathon weekend. A survey conducted by the Boston Restaurant Group showed a 15% increase in sales for restaurants in the city. From food trucks to upscale dining, local eateries experience a significant boost, creating jobs and enhancing the city’s food and beverage industry.
An Investment in Public Infrastructure
While the marathon’s economic contributions are largely driven by private spending, the public sector also invests heavily in the event. In 2024, local government spending on public safety, event coordination, and infrastructure totaled several million dollars. These investments are necessary to ensure the safety and smooth operation of such a large-scale event.
The Boston Police Department and other law enforcement agencies play a key role in securing the marathon, while public works teams help ensure that the streets are in optimal condition for the race. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) makes temporary service changes to accommodate the thousands of marathon-related commuters. All of these efforts are critical to the marathon’s success and to maintaining Boston’s image as a world-class host city (and cost a lot of money).
The Charitable Aspect
Like most Marathon Majors, the Boston Marathon has long been a platform for charitable giving, with runners raising funds for a variety of causes. In 2024, participants raised a remarkable $24 million for over 200 charities.
The Boston Athletic Association’s (BAA) partnership with nonprofit organizations continues to grow, helping raise both awareness and funds for critical issues in the region and beyond.
The 2024 Boston Marathon serves as a major economic engine, creating jobs, boosting local businesses, and promoting tourism. As the marathon continues to grow in size and influence, it remains a testament to the city’s resilience and vitality.
