As an avid golfer, I try to play as much golf as possible during our short season. This will include many rounds at my home course (where I am a member) and an opportunity to play at other local courses. The challenge faced by many golfers, including myself, is the cost of playing away from our home track. I realize that in some areas, the opportunities are boundless, however living in a rural area does not afford me the same opportunity. Chatting about the cost of golf with some people makes me wonder if the golf industry is squeezing out many players due to the rising costs of everything. It does make me wonder; how about you?

A recent unscientific poll I ran indicates that about a third of golfers are affected by the rising costs. Mixed in with life events, they either stopped playing or reduced the number of rounds they can actually afford. This question of cost is nothing new, however after the rise of popularity of golf during COVID, I wonder how many players stuck with playing. Here is the results of my poll:

Are you finding that the increases in cost to play golf is limiting your chances to play regularly? #golfchat

— The Grateful Golfer (@TheGratefulGolf) November 3, 2023

“Roughly one in seven Americans played golf in 2022, resulting in $101.7 billion in direct economic impact, an increase of 20% from the $84.1 billion in economic impact in 2016, according to a new study released by the American Golf Industry Coalition to celebrate the 15th annual National Golf Day on May 9.”

“According to the latest economic impact report conducted by the National Golf Foundation, golf’s overall participation base in the U.S. is 41.1 million, up from 32 million in 2016. While the pandemic reignited Americans’ passion for golf, a confluence of other factors has continued to keep the flame roaring since.” (Both quotes are from the PGA News feed)

The UK is experiencing a rise in the cost of playing and have yet to see a drop off of players. Stats indicate a rise in the waiting list to be members of golf courses. Entrance fees to new members seems to be on the rise in the UK. This is not unusual at high end courses, however many more in the UK are considering this financial boon. The cost of golf is rising, however the number of people wanting participate are as well.

All of this brings us back to original question: Is the cost of golf prohibitive to people wanting to play more golf? The short answer is yes….for some. Disposable income is definitely a factor as well as the number of courses in your area. Every situation is unique and the decision to play or not to play cannot be summed up in one statement. Golf appears to be going strong and the industry is likely not fussed by the ebbing and flowing of players It all comes down to its bottomline.

For me, it comes down to value. Is the money I am forking out to play a different course balance my enjoyment of the rounds. In most cases, the answer is yes, however, I evaluate each situation according the the plethora of stressors. For now, the price of golf is not prohibitive for my game and I hope it is not for yours aswell.

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!