3-Minute Business Insights
Short Game
Municipal golf is not facing an existential threat. In fact, it surprises some to learn that the number of municipal courses nationwide has actually increased over the last decade. This gain stands in contrast to broader U.S. supply reductions and the challenges 'muni golf' encounters in some areas.
Every U.S. state aside from Alaska has more than 40 golf courses, and almost two-thirds have at least 175. Florida has the most by a long shot; how many countries have more? Which well-supplied state has the highest proportion of public golf? Which state has the most golfers per public course -- and thus the fiercest competition for tee times?
Golf course closures last year came in at their lowest figure in almost two decades, resulting in less than a 1% reduction in overall U.S. supply. Here’s a bit more context, as the closure of golf courses is a topic of frequent interest… and frequent misinterpretation.
The number of on-course golfers has now increased for six straight years, but also notable is that the demographic makeup of the base is changing — albeit gradually in a sport with over 26 million Americans who play recreationally.
Thanks to one final late-season surge in December – which incidentally was the warmest ever in the U.S. – play levels at U.S. golf courses finished in uncharted territory in 2023.
Assessing the state of the golf industry in 2023 reveals increases in participation and play, a healthier balance between the number of golfers and courses, and an evolution of a traditional game that’s positively affecting golf demand. Read more...
New golf course construction has been on an upswing since the pandemic. NGF's database team is currently tracking more than 100 new course projects under construction or in planning.
As 2023 draws to a close, it’s a fitting time to look back, look ahead, and examine the appetite for green-grass golf.
Despite the volatility surrounding the state of the American consumer these days, a strong holiday buying season is anticipated. And a notable percentage of Core golfers are planning to spend as much or more on holiday gifts this year -- a total almost 50% higher than the typical American shopper.
While traditional golf participation has continued to climb in recent years, engagement has been even more pronounced away from the course – and that includes screen and simulated growth. Gains in this growing sector, among both participants and availability, are even more significant since the start of the pandemic.
Golf is experiencing a fashion movement. And yet an interesting disconnect remains between the dress code perspective of the golfer – and perhaps as notably, the non-golfer – and those who operate golf courses.
Golf's charitable impact is unrivaled compared to other sports, with an annual total that's up 18% in the latest measure.
