Miles Bennett
Golf is a sport that is often associated with wealth and prestige. The United States is home to more than 40% of all golf courses on the planet, and 45 million Americans played golf in 2023. While the sport originated in Scotland, the US state with the most golf courses is Florida, with over 1,250 courses. California has the most golfers, with approximately 2.8 million, and Minnesota and Wisconsin offer the most public golf, with 90% of Minnesota's 477 courses and 88% of Wisconsin's 528 courses being public. Other states with a strong golf culture include Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas, and New York.
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What You'll Learn
- Florida: the Sunshine State is home to over 1,250 golf courses
- California: the Golden State has the most golfers in the country
- Michigan: America's Summer Golf Capital, with the third-most courses in the US
- North Carolina: Pinehurst, the 'Cradle of American Golf', is here
- Ohio: home to Muirfield Village and the Inverness Club
Florida: the Sunshine State is home to over 1,250 golf courses
Florida, the Sunshine State, is a golfer's paradise. With over 1,250 golf courses across the state, it boasts the most golf courses in the US. Florida's year-round warm climate means golfers can enjoy a round at any time, and its flat topography makes it ideal for building golf courses.
Florida's golf scene is diverse, ranging from prestigious private clubs to world-renowned resort courses. The state's large population and tourist appeal also contribute to its golf culture, with a mix of residents and visitors teeing off throughout the year. Florida's golf courses are known for their unique features, such as alligator habitats and tropical storms that occasionally interrupt play.
The state's passion for golf is evident in its high number of rounds played and the presence of PGA Tour events, including the Greg Norman Shootout and Tiger Woods's appearances. Florida's golf offerings extend beyond the traditional, with top-tier resort golf and unique experiences attracting golfers of all levels.
While some may debate the playing conditions due to Bermuda grass and humidity, Florida's extensive golf infrastructure cannot be denied. The state's dedication to the sport is reflected in its continuous construction of new courses, ensuring that golfers can always find a new challenge.
Florida's golf scene is further enhanced by its range of prestigious clubs and resorts. Palm Beach County, known for its dense concentration of golf courses, features renowned names such as TPC Sawgrass, PGA National Golf Club, and Streamsong Resort. The state's golf culture is also influenced by its MLB pitchers and catchers, who often choose golf as their national pastime during spring training in Florida.
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California: the Golden State has the most golfers in the country
California, the Golden State, is widely considered the state with the most golfers in the country. With its year-round golfing opportunities, California is the obvious answer when it comes to the most popular state for golf. The state boasts a whopping 916 courses, second only to Florida, and offers a diverse range of golfing experiences, from public-access U.S. Open tracks like Pebble Beach and Torrey Pines to historic venues such as Riviera and the Olympic Club. California's mild climate makes it possible to play golf throughout the year, setting it apart from states with harsher winters.
While Florida may have more courses overall, California's golfing scene stands out for its quality and variety. The state is home to some of the nation's top-rated golf destinations, including the iconic Cypress Point, which ranks second on Golf.com's list of Top 100 designs. California's golfing landscape caters to golfers of all levels, from beginners to professionals, with a mix of public and private courses.
The state has produced some of the greatest golfers of all time, including Tiger Woods, Mickey Wright, Phil Mickelson, Billy Casper, and Amy Alcott, to name a few. These players have not only dominated the sport but have also inspired generations of golfers in California and beyond. The state's rich golfing history and strong golf culture further contribute to its reputation as a premier golf destination.
Additionally, California's diverse geography offers golfers breathtaking backdrops, from the coastal beauty of Pebble Beach to the rugged mountains of the Sierra Nevada range. The state's mild and sunny climate provides ideal conditions for golfing vacations and attracts golfers from all over the world. While the cost of golfing in California may be a consideration, with the right connections and budget, the state offers unparalleled golfing experiences.
While other states like Minnesota, North Dakota, Michigan, and Wisconsin have passionate golfing communities and their unique advantages, California's combination of favourable climate, exceptional course offerings, and golfing legacy solidifies its position as the state with the most golfers in the country. California truly is a golfer's paradise, offering an unmatched variety of courses, a vibrant golf culture, and year-round playability.
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Michigan: America's Summer Golf Capital, with the third-most courses in the US
Michigan, also known as "America's Summer Golf Capital", is a great place for golf enthusiasts. The state boasts the third-most golf courses in the US, with 859 tracks, only trailing Florida and California. Michigan's golf courses have hosted multiple majors, as well as the 2004 Ryder Cup at Oakland Hills Country Club.
Michigan is often overlooked as one of the top golfing destinations in the US, but it offers a great value and style of golf during the season. Similar to its neighbouring states, such as Ohio and Wisconsin, accessibility to golf courses in Michigan is weather-dependent. The state experiences cold winters, limiting the opportunities to play year-round. However, during the warmer months, Michigan's golf scene comes to life, attracting golfers from all over.
Michigan is home to some of the most renowned golf courses in the country. Notable mentions include the Crystal Downs Country Club, Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club, and the Kingsley Club. These courses offer challenging layouts and breathtaking views, contributing to Michigan's reputation as a premier golf destination.
The state's golf culture is vibrant, with a mix of public and private courses catering to golfers of all skill levels. Michigan's golf scene is also enhanced by its proximity to the Great Lakes, providing a unique backdrop for golfers. The state's golf community is passionate and dedicated, with many residents and visitors alike flocking to the courses during the warmer seasons.
In addition to its golf offerings, Michigan has a lot to offer in terms of natural beauty and outdoor activities. The state is known for its picturesque landscapes, lakes, and outdoor adventures, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and golfers seeking a holistic experience beyond the game.
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North Carolina: Pinehurst, the 'Cradle of American Golf', is here
While California is the most obvious answer to the question of which state is the best for golf in the US, North Carolina is also a top contender. Pinehurst, North Carolina, is known as the Cradle of American Golf. The Pinehurst Resort has hosted ten majors, including three US Opens, and is the first US Open Anchor Site. It has nine 18-hole courses with 19 architects tied to them, a nine-hole par-3 course, and a 15,000-square-foot putting green.
Pinehurst offers a range of experiences, from four-star fine dining to barbecue and brews. The Spa at Pinehurst is designed to provide a tranquil experience for guests looking to relax and unwind. The resort also features three historic hotels, along with cottages, villas, and condos for larger groups or those seeking more space.
The Pinehurst Resort has a rich history, with its first-ever course beginning in 1897 by Dr. Leroy Culver and John Dunn Tucker. In 1901, Donald Ross stepped in, and his course No. 2 became the first US Open Anchor Site and has hosted more single golf championships than any other course in America.
Pinehurst's No. 3 course was renovated in 2017 to restore its original charm and is a par-68 course. No. 4 was redesigned by Gil Hanse, bringing a bold expression of pure, timeless Carolinas Sandhills golf. No. 5 was designed by Ellis Maples, a protégé of Donald Ross, and No. 6 offers a unique experience with dramatic, hilly terrain dotted with wetlands. Tom Fazio designed No. 8 to synthesize all elements of the Pinehurst golf experience.
Pinehurst truly lives up to its name as the Cradle of American Golf, offering a historic and prestigious golf experience in North Carolina.
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Ohio: home to Muirfield Village and the Inverness Club
When it comes to golf, Ohio is certainly a state that stands out. It is home to the prestigious Muirfield Village, an "upscale" golf-oriented community located in Dublin, a suburb north of Columbus. Founded and controlled by the legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus, Muirfield Village is named after the place in Scotland where Nicklaus won the first of his three Open titles in 1966. The village boasts two renowned golf courses: The Country Club at Muirfield and the Muirfield Village Golf Club. The latter has hosted the annual Memorial Tournament, a PGA Tour event, since 1976, as well as several national and international championships, including the Ryder Cup and the Solheim Cup. Muirfield Village is not just a golfing destination but also a sought-after residential area, attracting local CEOs and celebrities with its exclusive neighbourhood and top-notch amenities.
Ohio's golfing prowess extends beyond Muirfield Village to the historic Inverness Club in Toledo. Ranked 58th in Golf Digest's 2023-24 list of the Top 100 Golf Courses in the United States, Inverness Club offers a world-class golfing experience rooted in Midwestern values. The club has a rich heritage, being the first in the USA to welcome professionals into its clubhouse back in 1920. Inverness Club has played host to several exciting U.S. Open tournaments, including Ted Ray's victory in 1920 and his return in 1931. The course has undergone revisions over the years, with designers such as A.W. Tillinghast and Dick Wilson leaving their mark. Today, the course stretches to almost 7,800 yards, challenging golfers with its emphasis on second shot accuracy and the notorious "murderers' row" of final holes.
Ohio's reputation as a golfing hub is further enhanced by its ability to produce talented golfers and host major tournaments. The state has a strong golf culture, with residents taking advantage of the many golf courses scattered throughout the state, especially during the warmer months. Ohio has also been home to notable golfers, such as Jack Nicklaus, who has left an indelible mark on the state with his contributions to Muirfield Village. The state has hosted prestigious golf tournaments, showcasing its capacity to provide challenging courses and memorable experiences for participants and spectators alike.
In conclusion, Ohio, with its iconic Muirfield Village and the esteemed Inverness Club, has firmly established itself as a prominent golf destination in the United States. The state's golfing heritage, combined with its ability to cater to golfers of all levels and its strong local interest in the sport, makes it a significant contributor to the country's golfing landscape. For golf enthusiasts, Ohio presents a unique blend of history, challenging courses, and a vibrant community that celebrates the sport.
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Frequently asked questions
Florida is the state with the most golf courses at 1,262, but California has the most golfers at 2.8 million. Other popular states for golf include New York, North Carolina, Texas, Ohio, Michigan, and Minnesota.
New York has some of the most popular golf courses in the world, with Oak Hill Country Club leading the charge. Other notable courses in New York include Shinnecock Hills, Bethpage Black, and Winged Foot. California also has pristine golf courses, including Pebble Beach, Torrey Pines, and Spyglass Hill.
Yes, factors such as community, ability to play year-round, and course accessibility are important. For example, North Carolina has a mild climate that allows for golfing throughout the year. Meanwhile, Michigan has been called "America's Summer Golf Capital", but its courses are weather-dependent.
