Cost to race.

Most races are pretty standard for your area. I have noticed a corelation: the bigger the city, the higher the cost. though it is the population density that is a bigger factor. So check out those rural races. They are unfortunately harder to find. They are not on some big race organizers website and they may not even have a website of their own.

Here in Columbus Ohio we have 750,000 people ranking 15th in the country. A 5k costs $27 from one of he race promoters. The Columbus Marathon costs $75.

City difference - NY marathon $171, Athens Ohio Marathon $35
It costs more to shut down a bigger city.

You can shop around for races in your area. I have done 5k races for as little as $3 as a guest for a rural roadrunners club and $5 (a non promoted charity run) and $33 (promoted, late entry, plus CC service charge). I try to keep a 5k to $20 unless it is something really cool. It was a mistake payin $33. I top out at $27 now.

A great deal here in Columbus is the Dash for Donation Half Marathon. $35 which is good but if you are a registered organ donor it is only $15. Run on Columbus Downtown bike path. Another great deal is the Columbus Running Co's Mile Dash Bash. $7 include a free beer, cake and drawings for prizes. it draws a great field of runners and some wacky costumes too.

Ask at local running stores. Check in with libraries, rec centers and big churches. Ask around. Google it. Don't be a slave to overpriced races. Expect what you pay for. If they aren't giving your money's worth -pass.

One of the worst priced races in our area is the Columbus Distance Classic a John Penguin Bigham race. It costs $60/$70. The race is not very special. There are several other halfs you can run for $35. The 5k is $30/$35 and draws very few competitive runners. I suppose if you run a 20 minute 5k and want to win a race it is appealing.

Make sure you know when entry fees go up. You usually need to register a month before your event.

For triathlons I am finding that $40 is pretty standard for sprints. I am going to be doing some longer races this year and I'll post on fees then. Don't forget that is it says it is a USAT sactioned event you need to add $10 to the fee. If you are doing 4 or more USAT races buy a membership.