

Charleston Half Marathon
Charleston Half Marathon: a fast, flat point-to-point through historic streets and coastal charm.
Race Date
Jan 30, 2027
Location
Charleston, SC
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, January 30, 2027
- Location
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 5K run
- Course
- Point to Point
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Yes
- Finishers on record
- 33,777
Highlights
Good For
Course
The Experience
The Charleston Half Marathon, held on a crisp January morning, has become a destination race for runners from across the country. With field sizes around 3,677 finishers and participants coming from 47 states, it's a gathering of the running community in the historic Lowcountry. Now in its 15th edition, the race has built a loyal following—about 8% of runners return year after year.
The course is a standout for speed. USATF certified and nearly flat, it features a net downhill profile that helps runners chase personal bests. The point-to-point route starts at Burke High School and winds through Charleston's streets, with the city's historic architecture and waterfront providing constant visual interest. Though the course is exposed in sections, the cool January temperatures (averaging 44–58°F) are ideal for racing.
At the finish line on President Street, runners collect their medals and enjoy the post-race atmosphere. The event also includes a 5K, making it accessible for families and first-timers. With a growing field and strong organization, the Charleston Half Marathon is a polished, well-supported race that delivers on its promise of fast times and Southern charm.
Race-provided description
Charleston Half Marathon & 5K Burke High School, President Street, Charleston, SC - Charleston Half Marathon & 5K - January 31, 2026
Course Info
USATF CertifiedCourse Type
Point to Point
Terrain
road
Scenery
Coastal, Urban
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
-0.07 m
Separation
3.8%
Also Offers
USATF Certified Course
SC26001JK · PNC Bank Charleston Half Marathon 2026
Relatively flat with minimal net elevation change. Loop course — start and finish are close together.
Course Map
1 other map for this race
Quality Score
Runner Favorite8815 years running
~3,510 finishers a year
growing or steady
8% returning runners
USATF certified · 3 timing sources · 3 photos
runners from 47 states
winner 1:12:06
typical high 58°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
44°
Afternoon (High)
58°
Ideal racing weather — cool and comfortable
0.1"
Precipitation
14 mph
Wind
74%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 33,777 finishers actually crossed the line across 15 years.
Most recent
2026
Total finishers
33,777
Median time
2:04:06
Latest turnout
3,677
States
51
Turnout by year
2017–2026
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Charleston Half Marathon?
The Charleston Half Marathon is held on Saturday, January 30, 2027.
Where does the Charleston Half Marathon take place?
It takes place in Charleston, South Carolina.
What distances does the Charleston Half Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 5K run.
Is the Charleston Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The Charleston Half Marathon is a ultra-flat, point to point course. The course is USATF-certified, so finish times can be used for qualifying.
How many people run the Charleston Half Marathon?
HalfRuns has finish records for 33,777 runners who have completed the Charleston Half Marathon.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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