How Many Golf Players In The US?

Golf is a significant sport in the U.S., attracting millions from various backgrounds. Covering west to east, golf’s appeal remains strong. The common consensus is that golf is growing with more and more players hitting the greens (or not) each year. We take a look at how many golf players are in the U.S.A as of this year in the article below.

Golf players that play at least once a year number over 25.6 million players in the U.S.A across all states. There are also 12.6 million others who may attend driving ranges, par 3 courses or simulators that are not included in this figure.

We will take a look at these numbers in more detail, We’ll take a look at the states with the most players and dive into the game’s history in the country. Additionally, we’ll discuss trends that might shape the future of U.S. golf and why it has grown so much in the last 100 years.

How Many Golf Players in the U.S.A.?

Golf in the U.S. began in the 1800s on the East Coast. By the 20th century, its popularity surged, partly due to champions like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus.

The 1990s and 2000s saw another boost with Tiger Woods’ emergence, drawing a broader audience to the game and more golf players.

Data from 2022 revealed over 25.6 million active U.S. golfers, underscoring the sport’s growing appeal over time. it didn’t account for another 12.4 million players who attended driving ranges, putting greens or simulators. bringing the total of 38 million golf players in the U.S.A.

Staistica and Golf Monthly

This growth is notable, considering golf’s humble beginnings in America. The journey of the sport, from those early days to its current widespread popularity, is a testament to its appeal and the country’s evolving relationship with it.

How Golf has grown in the USA

In the early 20th century, golf was predominantly an elite sport in the U.S., although with limited data on the exact number of players, it’s estimated that there were several thousand golf players, coinciding with the growth of private golf clubs.

By the mid-century, following the boom post-WWII and the advent of public courses, the number likely swelled into the millions.

By the 1980s, estimates suggest around 15 million golfers in the U.S. The National Golf Foundation reported that this number peaked at around 30 million in the early 2000s, partly due to the “Tiger Woods effect.”

As of the latest data from Statistica and National Golf Foundation, there were over 24 million golfers in the U.S likely over 25 million, though this number has seen slight fluctuations over the years due to various factors like economic conditions and changing recreational habits, it also doesn’t include the 12 plus million that are

The Expansion of Golf Clubs in the U.S

The evolution of golf clubs in America mirrors the sport’s rising popularity. In the early 20th century, there were a few hundred golf courses, primarily private and catering to the elite.

This number saw exponential growth by mid-century, driven by the post-WWII economic boom and increasing middle-class interest in the sport. By the 1980s, America had over 10,000 golf courses.

This number peaked in the early 2000s with approximately 16,000 golf courses, making the U.S. the country with the most golf courses globally.

Although there’s been a slight contraction since then, with some courses closing due to economic and land use factors, the U.S. still boasts over 14,000 courses as of 2021, reflecting golf’s position in American recreation.

What is a Golf Player?

When considering statistics about golfers in the U.S., it’s important to define what constitutes a “golfer.”

In most studies, a golfer is typically defined as someone who has played at least one round of golf (18 holes) in the past year.

However, this can vary. Some might categorize golf players as those playing once a week or more, while occasional golfers might only play a few times a year. Recreational golfers might engage in pitch and putt or par-3 courses more than traditional golf courses.

It’s also worth noting that many participate in golf-related activities, like driving ranges or simulators, or even play with golfing aids in their home, without necessarily playing traditional rounds. The definition of golf players can vary based on frequency, type of activity, and context.

3. Top 10 States with the Most Golfers

• California: Estimated 3.2 million golfers. As the state with the most golf courses in the nation, California has a rich golfing tradition from Pebble Beach to Torrey Pines. Its diverse landscape offers various golfing experiences, attracting both professionals and amateurs.
• Florida: Estimated 2.9 million golfers. Known for its year-round golfing weather, Florida hosts the PGA TOUR’s Florida Swing and boasts renowned courses like TPC Sawgrass. It’s a top destination for golf tourism.
• Texas: Estimated 2.5 million golfers. Texas has a robust golf culture, with vast landscapes catering to golf courses. From the piney woods of East Texas to the plains of West Texas, golf is a significant pastime.
• New York: Estimated 1.5 million golfers. With its rich golfing heritage, courses like Bethpage Black and Shinnecock Hills have hosted major championships. The state has a vibrant mix of public and private courses.
• North Carolina: Estimated 1.4 million golfers. Home to Pinehurst No. 2, one of the world’s top-ranked courses, North Carolina’s golf history is profound. The varied terrain, from mountains to coast, provides diverse golfing experiences.
• Georgia: Estimated 1.2 million golfers. Georgia is synonymous with the Masters at Augusta National. Besides this iconic event, the state has numerous courses spread across its territory, making golf a favored activity.
• Arizona: Estimated 1.1 million golfers. With its desert landscapes and year-round playability, Arizona, especially areas like Scottsdale, is a golfer’s paradise. The state’s unique desert courses are a significant draw.
• Illinois: Estimated 1 million golfers. Golf has deep roots in Illinois, with Chicago boasting some of the country’s oldest courses. The Western Open, now known as the BMW Championship, has its origins here.
• Ohio: Estimated 900,000 golfers. Ohio has a strong golf tradition, with events like the Memorial Tournament and courses like Firestone Country Club. The state’s golfing legacy is robust and continues to thrive.
• Michigan: Estimated 850,000 golfers. Michigan is a hidden gem in the golfing world, with some of the country’s top public courses. Its summer golfing conditions are ideal, and the state has a dedicated golfing community.

Influencing Factors Behind Golf’s Rise

Several elements have spurred the growth of golf in the U.S. Major championships, particularly the Masters, U.S. Open, and PGA Championship, have spotlighted the sport, drawing global attention.

golf players like Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, and more recently and dramatically, Tiger Woods, have added charisma, attracting a wider range of audience. Additionally, television broadcasts and advancements in technology have made golf more accessible to the masses.

Golf tourism, with destinations like Florida and California, has further popularized the sport. Moreover, local community programs and initiatives, such as “First Tee,” play a role in introducing golf to younger generations.

These combined factors have helped position golf not just as a pastime but as a significant cultural and sporting phenomenon in the U.S increasing the number of golf players.

The Next Generation of U.S. Golfers

The future of golf in the U.S. is promising, with several trends signaling continued growth. Youth initiatives are introducing a new generation to the sport, ensuring a pipeline of passionate players.

Technology, from advanced golf simulators to wearable tech, is modernizing the game, making it more accessible and engaging for golf players.

Golf tourism is expected to rise, with states investing in infrastructural developments to attract enthusiasts. The inclusion of golf in global sports events like the Olympics also adds to its visibility and appeal.

The evolution of shorter formats and 9-hole courses suggests an adaptation to today’s fast-paced lifestyle, inviting more people to tee off. All these factors hint at a bright future for golf in the U.S.

Conclusion

Golf, from its beginnings as a pastime for the elite, golf has turned, at least recently, into a mainstream activity, evidenced by the huge rise in player numbers and the increase of courses nationwide.

From a few thousand players to the 25 million plus golf players in the U.S that we currently see golf has gone form a niche sport for richer folks to a pastime that almost 10% of the population of the whole country pick up the sticks at least once a year.

References

• https://www.golfmonthly.com/news/how-many-golfers-are-there-in-the-united-states
• https://golfeducate.com/how-many-golf-players-in-the-world/
• https://www.pgatour.com/article/news/latest/2023/05/09/report-more-americans-playing-golf-than-ever-before
• https://riversedgegolfbend.com/bend-oregon-golf-blog/demographics-of-golf/
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Superstar_Effect#:~:text=The%20Superstar%20Effect%20or%20%22Tiger,in%20a%20rank%2Dorder%20competition.