Golf Participation in the U.S.
Golf Participation in the U.S.
2026 Edition

This annual summary through year-end 2025 provides the latest data on golf participation — both traditional on-course golfers and those who engage with golf away from the course. The report includes detailed information on key segments such as beginners, women, people of color, juniors, dual participants (on- and off-course), and the pool of non-golfers who say they’re very interested in playing the game now (latent demand). Regional profiles within the U.S. provide participation rates, number of golfers, and average and total rounds-played. The NGF has surveyed Americans regarding golf participation every year since 1986 and provides the most comprehensive overview of engagement available within the industry.

Detailed demographic information is available on the following groups:

  • All golfers
  • Core golfers
  • Beginners
  • Juniors
  • Women
  • People of color
  • Dual participants (“Dualies”)
  • Latent demand
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