Golf is a popular sport in the United States, and many states boast a vibrant golfing culture. However, when it comes to determining which state plays the most golf, several factors come into play, including the number of golf courses, the climate, and the enthusiasm of the local population. Here, we’ll explore the states that are renowned for their love of golf and why they earn this distinction.
1. Florida: The Sunshine State
Florida is often considered the golf capital of the United States. It’s a paradise for golf enthusiasts due to its pleasant year-round climate, with mild winters that allow golfers to play virtually any time. Florida boasts over 1,400 golf courses, ranging from public to private, and it’s home to numerous professional golfers and famous golf tournaments like the TPC Sawgrass.
2. California: The Golden State
California is another state that ranks high in golf popularity. With its diverse landscapes, California offers a wide variety of golf courses, from coastal links to desert layouts. The state has more than 900 golf courses, and it’s the birthplace of many legendary golfers. The PGA Tour also holds several events in California each year.
3. Texas: The Lone Star State
Texas is known for its passion for sports, and golf is no exception. The state boasts around 900 golf courses, and many of them are highly regarded. Texas hosts significant golf tournaments, including the Valero Texas Open, and it has produced numerous professional golfers who have made a name for themselves on the PGA Tour.
4. Arizona: The Grand Canyon State
Arizona’s warm climate and stunning desert landscapes make it a prime destination for golfers. The state is home to more than 300 golf courses, and many of them offer unique challenges and picturesque settings. Popular golf destinations like Scottsdale and Phoenix draw golfers from around the world for both leisure and professional play.
5. North Carolina: The Tar Heel State
North Carolina has a rich golf tradition, with over 600 golf courses spread throughout the state. The Pinehurst area is particularly famous, hosting several major tournaments, including the U.S. Open. North Carolina’s diverse geography provides golfers with opportunities to play in the mountains, foothills, and coastal regions.
6. South Carolina: The Palmetto State
South Carolina is another southeastern state that embraces golf. It’s home to more than 350 golf courses, including some of the country’s most prestigious layouts. The state’s coastal courses are especially popular, attracting golfers looking for scenic beauty and challenging play.
7. Georgia: The Peach State
Georgia is renowned for hosting one of golf’s most prestigious events, the Masters Tournament, at Augusta National Golf Club. This tournament alone highlights the state’s significance in the golf world. Georgia has over 500 golf courses, and its temperate climate allows for year-round play.
8. New York: The Empire State
New York may not have the warm climate of some other golf-centric states, but it still has a strong golfing culture. The state boasts over 800 golf courses, including some world-renowned tracks like Bethpage Black. Despite the shorter golf season due to cold winters, New Yorkers are passionate about the sport.
9. Michigan: The Great Lakes State
Michigan is a state with a strong golf tradition, boasting over 800 golf courses. The state’s golfing scene benefits from its picturesque landscapes, including courses along the Great Lakes and in the northern part of the state. Michigan also hosts several professional and amateur tournaments, attracting golfers from within and outside the state.
10. Nevada: The Silver State
Nevada, primarily known for Las Vegas and its entertainment, also has a thriving golf culture. With over 100 golf courses, many located in and around Las Vegas, it’s a popular destination for golfers looking for challenging courses and luxurious amenities. Nevada’s sunny climate allows for golf year-round.
11. Pennsylvania: The Keystone State
Pennsylvania is home to numerous golf courses, including iconic ones like Oakmont Country Club. The state has over 700 golf courses, and it’s known for its historic golf clubs and championship venues. Pennsylvania golfers endure colder winters, but they make the most of the warmer months to enjoy the sport.
12. Hawaii: The Aloha State
Hawaii offers a unique golfing experience with its tropical climate and stunning oceanfront courses. While the state has fewer courses compared to the mainland, its scenic beauty and pleasant weather make it a sought-after golf destination. Hawaii has produced notable professional golfers and hosts the PGA TOUR’s Sony Open in Honolulu.
13. Ohio: The Buckeye State
Ohio is known for its golf tradition, with more than 800 golf courses to choose from. The state has a diverse golf landscape, ranging from parkland courses to links-style layouts. Ohio also hosts professional events like the Memorial Tournament, which draws top players from around the world.
14. Wisconsin: The Badger State
Wisconsin has gained recognition in the golf world, thanks in part to the Whistling Straits course, which has hosted major championships. The state has around 500 golf courses, and its shorter golf season is compensated by the enthusiasm of its golfing community during the summer months.
15. Massachusetts: The Bay State
Massachusetts may be a smaller state, but it has a strong golfing presence, with over 400 golf courses. The state is known for its historic golf clubs and has produced its fair share of top golfers. Massachusetts golfers take advantage of the warmer months to enjoy the sport.
Golf Participation by State
| State | Golf Courses | Golf Players (millions) | Major Tournaments Hosted | Golf Revenue (billions USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | 1,300 | 2.5 | 15 | 11.7 |
| California | 900 | 2.2 | 10 | 9.5 |
| Texas | 1,000 | 1.8 | 8 | 8.1 |
| New York | 750 | 1.4 | 6 | 6.3 |
| Arizona | 400 | 1.2 | 4 | 4.8 |
| North Carolina | 550 | 1.0 | 7 | 5.2 |
| Georgia | 600 | 0.9 | 5 | 4.6 |
| South Carolina | 450 | 0.8 | 6 | 4.0 |
| Pennsylvania | 700 | 0.7 | 3 | 3.5 |
| Michigan | 550 | 0.6 | 4 | 3.0 |
Top Golf Courses in the United States
| Rank | Golf Course | Location | Designer | Year Established |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pebble Beach Golf Links | Pebble Beach, CA | Jack Neville | 1919 |
| 2 | Augusta National Golf Club | Augusta, GA | Alister MacKenzie | 1933 |
| 3 | Pinehurst No. 2 | Pinehurst, NC | Donald Ross | 1907 |
| 4 | Whistling Straits | Kohler, WI | Pete Dye | 1998 |
| 5 | Bethpage Black | Farmingdale, NY | A.W. Tillinghast | 1936 |
| 6 | Pebble Beach Golf Links | Pebble Beach, CA | Jack Neville | 1919 |
| 7 | Augusta National Golf Club | Augusta, GA | Alister MacKenzie | 1933 |
| 8 | Pinehurst No. 2 | Pinehurst, NC | Donald Ross | 1907 |
| 9 | Whistling Straits | Kohler, WI | Pete Dye | 1998 |
| 10 | Bethpage Black | Farmingdale, NY | A.W. Tillinghast | 1936 |
Golf Equipment Sales by State
| State | Golf Clubs Sold (thousands) | Golf Balls Sold (millions) | Golf Bags Sold (thousands) | Golf Shoes Sold (thousands) | Golf Apparel Sales (millions USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | 400 | 25 | 80 | 75 | 350 |
| Texas | 350 | 20 | 65 | 60 | 280 |
| Florida | 300 | 18 | 60 | 55 | 260 |
| New York | 250 | 15 | 50 | 45 | 220 |
| Arizona | 200 | 12 | 40 | 35 | 180 |
| North Carolina | 180 | 10 | 35 | 30 | 160 |
| Georgia | 170 | 9 | 32 | 28 | 150 |
| South Carolina | 150 | 8 | 30 | 25 | 140 |
| Pennsylvania | 140 | 7 | 28 | 24 | 130 |
| Michigan | 120 | 6 | 24 | 20 | 110 |
Golf Tourism in Top States
| State | Number of Golf Tourists (millions) | Average Golf Vacation Cost (USD) | Top Golf Destinations | Popular Golf Resorts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | 4.2 | 1,500 | Orlando, Naples | Sawgrass, Doral |
| California | 3.5 | 1,800 | Pebble Beach, LA | Torrey Pines, Napa |
| Texas | 2.8 | 1,400 | San Antonio, Austin | TPC San Antonio, Barton Creek |
| Arizona | 2.1 | 1,300 | Scottsdale, Phoenix | Boulders, Troon North |
| South Carolina | 1.9 | 1,200 | Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head | Kiawah Island, Palmetto Dunes |
| Georgia | 1.6 | 1,250 | Augusta, Atlanta | Reynolds Lake Oconee, Sea Island |
| North Carolina | 1.5 | 1,350 | Pinehurst, Asheville | Pinehurst Resort, Biltmore |
| Nevada | 1.2 | 1,600 | Las Vegas, Reno | Shadow Creek, Edgewood |
| Hawaii | 1.0 | 2,000 | Maui, Oahu | Kapalua, Turtle Bay |
| New York | 0.8 | 1,700 | Long Island, Adirondacks | Bethpage State Park, Lake Placid |
Golf Industry Employment
| State | Golf Course Jobs | Golf Equipment Manufacturing Jobs | Golf Retail Jobs | Golf Instruction Jobs | Golf Administration Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | 27,000 | 5,500 | 11,000 | 6,200 | 3,800 |
| California | 23,500 | 4,800 | 9,500 | 5,300 | 3,200 |
| Texas | 21,800 | 4,300 | 8,700 | 4,800 | 2,900 |
| New York | 18,200 | 3,700 | 7,400 | 4,100 | 2,500 |
| Arizona | 15,500 | 3,100 | 6,200 | 3,500 | 2,100 |
| North Carolina | 13,800 | 2,800 | 5,600 | 3,100 | 1,900 |
| Georgia | 13,000 | 2,600 | 5,200 | 2,900 | 1,800 |
| South Carolina | 11,500 | 2,300 | 4,600 | 2,500 | 1,500 |
| Pennsylvania | 10,600 | 2,100 | 4,200 | 2,300 | 1,400 |
| Michigan | 9,800 | 2,000 | 4,000 | 2,200 | 1,300 |
In conclusion, the state that plays the most golf can be attributed to various factors, including climate, the number and quality of golf courses, and the passion of local golfers. Each state mentioned here contributes to the overall golfing landscape in the United States, making golf a beloved and widely played sport across the nation. Golfers can find unique experiences and challenges in these diverse states, ensuring that the game continues to thrive throughout the country.
