Trevor Ng
Golf is a popular sport in the United States, with a growing number of people taking it up each year. In 2021, 25.1 million people aged six and above played on a golf course, with an additional 12.4 million participating in off-course activities. The following year, roughly one in seven Americans played golf, and in 2024, a total of 47.2 million Americans aged 6 and above played golf, both on and off the course. The sport has seen a boost in popularity since the pandemic, with golf being a safe, socially distant outdoor activity. The number of new golfers, including younger players and female players, is on the rise, and the sport is becoming more accessible and appealing to a wider range of people.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of people playing golf in 2022 | 1/7th of Americans |
| Number of people playing golf in 2023 | **** million (an increase of 4% from the previous year) |
| Number of people playing golf in 2024 | 47.2 million (including on-course and off-course) |
| Number of people playing on-course golf in 2024 | 28.1 million |
| Number of people playing off-course golf in 2024 | 19.1 million |
| Number of female golfers (adult and junior) in 2024 | Over 6 million |
| Number of female on-course golfers in 2024 | Nearly 8 million |
| Number of new golfers in 2021 | 3.2 million |
| Number of people interested in playing golf on a course in 2024 | Over 24 million |
| Number of people interested in playing golf on a course in 2022 | 17.8 million |
| Number of people playing on-course golf in 2021 | 25.1 million |
| Number of people playing off-course golf in 2021 | 12.4 million |
| Median age of a golfer in the U.S. | 54 |
| Percentage of golfers who are female | 28% |
| Percentage of golfers who are People of Color | 29% |
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What You'll Learn
- Golf's popularity: Golf is more popular than ever in the US
- Off-course golf: Off-course activities are a valuable introduction to the sport
- Female golfers: The number of female golfers is on the rise
- Young golfers: Golf is attracting more young players
- Golf's economic impact: Golf contributed $101.7 billion to the US economy in 2022
Golf's popularity: Golf is more popular than ever in the US
Golf is more popular than ever in the US, with around one in seven Americans playing the game in 2022. This surge in popularity has resulted in a $101.7 billion economic impact, a 20% increase from 2016. The sport has seen a boost in players, with 2023 figures representing the highest participation since 2009.
The American Golf Industry Coalition celebrated National Golf Day in Washington, D.C., highlighting the positive economic, charitable, and social impact of the sport. The COVID-19 pandemic also played a role in golf's resurgence, as it was a safe and socially distant outdoor activity. The game has provided an outlet for millions to escape everyday stress and recharge.
Golf's popularity is also evident in the increasing number of newcomers. In 2021, 3.2 million people played on a golf course for the first time, a significant increase from the previous year. The sport has particularly gained traction among younger players and female players, with the number of female golfers surpassing 6 million in the past five years. The category of young adults (18-34-year-olds) is the largest customer age segment, with over 7 million participating in off-course golf activities.
Golf's accessibility has improved, with off-course options such as entertainment golf venues providing a valuable introduction to the sport. The industry has recognized the need to continue evolving to meet the changing needs of Americans and ensuring accessibility to all. This includes embracing modern equipment and technology, with 90% of golf participants using the internet and feeling that it has improved their game.
Golf's resurgence in the US is not just a trend but a sustained increase in popularity, with the sport contributing more to the economy and society than ever before. The industry's focus on accessibility and evolving to meet the needs of a diverse customer base has been critical to its success.
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Off-course golf: Off-course activities are a valuable introduction to the sport
Golf has seen a surge in popularity in the United States in recent years. In 2024, a record-setting 47.2 million Americans aged 6 and above played golf, with 28.1 million playing on a golf course and 19.1 million participating exclusively in off-course golf activities. Off-course golf activities include driving ranges, indoor golf simulators, and golf entertainment venues like Topgolf.
Off-course golf activities are a valuable introduction to the sport of golf for newcomers. They provide an accessible and enjoyable alternative for people who may not have the time, resources, or interest in committing to a full round of golf on a traditional course. Off-course golf is ideal for customers who want to try the sport without feeling the need to spend a significant amount of money on equipment and other costs. It also serves as a valuable practice opportunity for those who want to improve their skills before stepping onto a golf course. The rise of off-course golf has been further enhanced by technological advancements, such as improved simulators, and it continues to attract participants and complement traditional golf experiences.
The popularity of off-course golf can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, it offers a more affordable option compared to the costs associated with regular golf, such as equipment, accessories, tee times, and lessons. Secondly, off-course golf venues are often more accessible, especially in urban areas, making it convenient for those who may not have easy access to traditional golf courses. Thirdly, off-course golf activities typically require less time commitment than a full round of golf, which can take 4-5 hours. The average time spent at off-course facilities is usually between 1-2 hours, making it a more convenient option for those with busy schedules.
In addition to these practical advantages, off-course golf also provides a social and fun environment that appeals to a wider audience. Venues like Topgolf offer a bar-like atmosphere with bright lights and music, creating a space for people to socialize and enjoy the game in a less serious manner. Off-course golf also helps to address the sport's image problem, as it attracts a more diverse range of participants beyond the stereotype of well-off white men.
Overall, off-course golf activities offer a valuable introduction to the sport of golf by providing accessibility, affordability, and a social environment that welcomes newcomers and complements the traditional golf experience.
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Female golfers: The number of female golfers is on the rise
Golf is a popular sport in the United States, with around one in seven Americans playing the game in 2022. The number of people playing golf in the country has been increasing, with 2023 seeing the highest participation figures since 2009. The golf industry in the US is thriving, with the sport contributing more to the economy than ever before.
The number of female golfers in America is also on the rise, with women driving the growth of the sport since the pandemic. From 2020 to 2022, more than 800,000 American women took up golf, bringing the total number of female golfers to 6.4 million. This represented a 15% increase in female golfers, while the number of male golfers rose by just 2%. The number of female golfers (adults and juniors) has surpassed 6 million in the past five years, with a net gain of 2.3 million female golfers since 2019, a 41% increase. In 2024, there were nearly 8 million female golfers aged 6 and above.
Women now make up over a quarter of on-course golfers in the US, the highest proportion ever recorded. They also represent a disproportionately higher percentage of beginners (39%), juniors (35%), and off-course-only participants (43%) than their overall share of the golf population. The number of junior female golfers has also increased significantly, with more than one-third of junior golfers being girls, compared to just 15% in 2000.
The historically male-dominated golf industry is responding to the surge in female golfers. Golf equipment and apparel companies are releasing new product lines specifically for women, with Callaway launching a new line of clubs featuring lighter head weights and unique construction. Athletic wear brands like Nike, Adidas, and Lululemon have also released golf collections for women.
The increase in female golfers has also been attributed to the accessibility of off-course forms of golf, such as entertainment golf venues, which have helped newcomers build confidence before visiting a golf course. The social aspect of the sport has also played a role, with women finding friends to play with through events and groups.
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Young golfers: Golf is attracting more young players
Golf is attracting more young players, and the sport is witnessing a rise in young golfers. In 2023, around 25 million Americans played golf, with 6.1 million (24%) being 18-34-year-olds, the largest proportion out of all age groups. This trend has continued to rise, with over 7 million young adults playing golf away from the course and 7.5 million "very interested" in taking up the game.
There are several reasons for this increase in young players. Firstly, the perception of golf has changed, with the sport moving away from its stereotype as an elitist and exclusive sport. Initiatives aimed at introducing golf to children and youth from all backgrounds have helped to make the sport more inclusive and accessible, challenging the traditional image of golf as predominantly white and male. The rise of streetwear and athleisure has also made golf apparel more fashionable and appealing to young people, with brands offering more contemporary clothing options.
Social and cultural factors have also played a role in attracting younger players. Golf has become more relatable and entertaining through its portrayal in popular culture, such as the film "Happy Gilmore." The rise of social media has increased the visibility of young golfers, with golfers sharing their experiences and achievements directly with fans, creating a personal connection and inspiring others to take up the sport.
To cater to the interests of young golfers, golf courses have implemented strategies such as offering monthly subscriptions, providing free golf club rentals, and adopting more relaxed dress codes. Courses have also recognised the importance of mobile accessibility, allowing young golfers to book and pay for rounds on their smartphones. By embracing these changes, golf is attracting a new generation of players and shaping a dynamic future for the sport.
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Golf's economic impact: Golf contributed $101.7 billion to the US economy in 2022
Golf is more than just a sport in the United States; it is a thriving industry with a significant economic impact. In 2022, the U.S. golf industry generated a whopping $101.7 billion in economic impact, a dramatic 20% increase from its $84.1 billion economic impact in 2016. This substantial contribution to the U.S. economy is a testament to the sport's popularity and its ability to evolve and attract new participants.
The COVID-19 pandemic played a role in boosting the sport's popularity as millions of Americans turned to golf as a safe and socially distant outdoor activity. This trend, coupled with the sport's mental health benefits, has drawn more people to golf, resulting in record-high participation levels. In 2022, approximately 41.1 million people played some form of golf, including traditional courses and alternative facilities like Topgolf. This number represents about one in seven Americans, indicating that golf has a broad reach across the country.
The economic impact of the U.S. golf industry extends beyond the direct revenue generated from golf-related activities. The industry creates employment opportunities, stimulates trade, and contributes to development in local communities. Additionally, golf has a positive environmental impact, with golf courses serving as habitats for valuable plant and animal species and promoting efficient water management.
The financial impact of golf also includes ancillary purchases, travel, and real estate connected to the sport. Golf tournaments, associations, and endorsements generate significant revenues, and the sport is also a powerful vehicle for fundraising. In 2022, golf raised almost $4.6 billion for charitable causes, showcasing its societal benefits and its ability to contribute to the well-being of communities across the nation.
The U.S. golf industry's economic impact is not just about the numbers; it's about the positive changes it brings to the country. With its ability to generate substantial economic growth, provide employment, and contribute to societal and environmental causes, the industry is committed to making the sport accessible to all. As the industry continues to evolve and innovate, it will undoubtedly maintain its momentum and further solidify its position as a powerhouse in the American economy.
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Frequently asked questions
In 2021, 25.1 million people aged six and over played on a golf course in the United States. There were also 12.4 million people who took part in off-course activities like driving ranges, golf simulators, or venues like Topgolf. In 2024, a total of 47.2 million Americans aged 6+ played golf, both on and off the course.
The number of new golfers in America has been increasing for six straight years. In 2021, 3.2 million people played on a golf course for the first time, up from 2.4 million the previous year. The number of annual newcomers hovered around 2.5 million from 2016 to 2019 before the pandemic fuelled a rise in recent years.
The median age of a golfer in the U.S. is 54, with the majority of players being of older age. However, the number of young golfers is increasing, with the largest customer age segment being 18-34-year-olds. The number of female golfers has also been on the rise, with over 6 million female golfers (adult and junior) in the past five years.
