Which US State has the most golf courses per capita

Golf is a popular pastime in the United States, with thousands of golf courses spread across the country. When considering the number of golf courses per capita, i.e., the number of golf courses relative to the state’s population, some states stand out as golfing havens. Here, we’ll explore which US state has the most golf courses per capita.

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1. South Carolina: The Golf Capital of the South

South Carolina is renowned for its beautiful golf courses and is often referred to as the “Golf Capital of the South.” The state boasts a substantial number of golf courses, making it a top destination for golf enthusiasts. Notable areas like Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island, and Kiawah Island are home to some of the country’s finest golfing experiences.

2. Florida: A Golfer’s Paradise

Florida is another state with a high concentration of golf courses per capita. With its pleasant year-round weather, Florida offers golfers the opportunity to play throughout the year. Cities like Naples, Orlando, and Palm Beach have numerous top-tier golf courses, attracting golfers from around the world.

3. Arizona: Desert Golf Oasis

Arizona’s unique desert landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for golf courses. The state is a hub for golfers looking to experience desert golf at its finest. Destinations like Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Tucson offer a wide variety of golf courses that cater to different skill levels.

4. Nevada: Golfing in the Silver State

Nevada, known primarily for Las Vegas, also offers a considerable number of golf courses. The Las Vegas Strip features several luxurious golf resorts, making it a popular destination for golfers seeking entertainment and relaxation.

5. Hawaii: Golfing in Paradise

Hawaii’s lush landscapes and beautiful weather make it a paradise for golfers. While Hawaii has a smaller population compared to other states, its abundance of golf courses ensures there are plenty of options for enthusiasts. Courses on Maui, Oahu, and the Big Island provide stunning ocean views and challenging layouts.

6. Delaware: A Small State with Many Golf Courses

Delaware may be one of the smallest states in the US, but it has a surprising number of golf courses per capita. It’s a convenient destination for golfers on the East Coast, offering a mix of public and private courses.

7. Vermont: Golfing Amidst Natural Beauty

Vermont is known for its natural beauty, and golf courses here are often nestled amidst picturesque landscapes. While it may not have as many courses as some other states, the state’s low population makes it a contender in terms of golf courses per capita.

8. Michigan: The Great Lakes Golf State

Michigan is a state blessed with the beauty of the Great Lakes and a thriving golf culture. From the scenic courses along Lake Michigan to the challenging layouts in the Detroit area, Michigan offers a diverse range of golf experiences. The state’s golfing heritage includes hosting major championships, making it a must-visit destination for golfers.

9. New York: Golfing in the Empire State

New York, known for its bustling cities, also features numerous golf courses. The state offers a wide range of golfing experiences, from courses in the picturesque Hudson Valley to those on Long Island’s famed golf coast. New York’s diverse geography means golfers can enjoy a variety of settings and challenges.

10. North Carolina: A Golf Destination with Southern Charm

North Carolina combines Southern hospitality with excellent golfing options. The Pinehurst area, in particular, is world-famous for its historic golf resorts and challenging courses. The state’s moderate climate allows golfers to play year-round.

11. California: Golf Along the Pacific Coast

California, the most populous state in the US, also has a significant number of golf courses per capita. The state’s diverse geography means golfers can tee off against stunning ocean backdrops on the Pacific Coast, play in the desert, or enjoy mountainous courses in regions like Lake Tahoe.

12. Georgia: Golfing in the Peach State

Georgia is home to the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club, which hosts the Masters Tournament, one of golf’s most iconic events. The state boasts a vibrant golf culture, with courses that cater to a wide range of skill levels. Atlanta and its surrounding areas are known for their golfing options.

13. New Jersey: Golfing in the Garden State

New Jersey, despite its small size, has a substantial number of golf courses per capita. The state’s proximity to major metropolitan areas like New York City and Philadelphia makes it a convenient destination for golfers looking for a quick escape to the greens.

14. Colorado: Golfing in the Rocky Mountains

Colorado offers a unique golfing experience with courses set against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. The state’s elevation can add an extra challenge to your game, making it an exciting destination for golfers seeking both scenery and adventure.

15. Wisconsin: Golfing in America’s Dairyland

Wisconsin is home to several renowned golf courses, including Whistling Straits, which has hosted multiple major championships. The state’s rolling landscapes and picturesque settings make it a popular choice for golfers seeking a relaxed yet challenging round.

Golf Courses in Alabama

Golf CourseLocationNumber of HolesYear EstablishedDesigner
PinehurstBirmingham, AL181985Jack Nicklaus
Rolling HillsMobile, AL271972Robert Trent Jones
Magnolia GroveMobile, AL541992Robert Trent Jones
Silver LakesGadsden, AL181993Jerry Pate
Limestone SpringsOneonta, AL181999Jerry Pate
Bent BrookBessemer, AL271988Robert Trent Jones
FarmLinks at Pursell FarmsSylacauga, AL182003Hurdzan/Fry
Timberline Golf ClubCalera, AL271997Jerry Pate
Ross Bridge Golf ResortHoover, AL182005Robert Trent Jones
Craft Farms Golf ResortGulf Shores, AL361987Arnold Palmer

Golf Courses in Florida

Golf CourseLocationNumber of HolesYear EstablishedDesigner
TPC SawgrassPonte Vedra Beach, FL361980Pete Dye
Trump National DoralMiami, FL721962Dick Wilson
Bay Hill Club and LodgeOrlando, FL271961Dick Wilson
Blue Monster CourseMiami, FL181925Donald Ross
Streamsong RedBowling Green, FL182012Bill Coore, Ben Crenshaw
World Woods Pine BarrensBrooksville, FL181993Tom Fazio
TPC Tampa BayLutz, FL181991Bobby Weed
Innisbrook Resort (Copperhead)Palm Harbor, FL181974Lawrence Packard
Streamsong BlueBowling Green, FL182012Tom Doak
Trump International Golf ClubWest Palm Beach, FL181999Jim Fazio

Golf Courses in California

Golf CourseLocationNumber of HolesYear EstablishedDesigner
Pebble Beach Golf LinksPebble Beach, CA181919Jack Neville, Douglas Grant
Torrey Pines Golf CourseSan Diego, CA361957William F. Bell
Cypress Point ClubPebble Beach, CA181928Alister MacKenzie
Augusta National Golf ClubAugusta, GA181933Alister MacKenzie, Bobby Jones
Merion Golf Club (East Course)Ardmore, PA181912Hugh Wilson
Oakmont Country ClubOakmont, PA181903Henry Fownes
Pinehurst No. 2Pinehurst, NC181907Donald Ross
Shinnecock Hills Golf ClubSouthampton, NY181891Willie Dunn, William Flynn, C.B. Macdonald
Winged Foot Golf Club (West Course)Mamaroneck, NY181923A.W. Tillinghast
Muirfield Village Golf ClubDublin, OH181974Jack Nicklaus

Golf Courses in Texas

Golf CourseLocationNumber of HolesYear EstablishedDesigner
Pine Dunes Resort & Golf ClubFrankston, TX182001Jay Morrish
Barton Creek Resort & SpaAustin, TX721986Tom Fazio
Bluejack National Golf ClubMontgomery, TX182016Tiger Woods
Whispering Pines Golf ClubTrinity, TX182000Chet Williams
Champions Golf Club (Cypress Creek)Houston, TX181959Ralph Plummer
Dallas National Golf ClubDallas, TX182002Tom Fazio
Spanish Oaks Golf ClubBee Cave, TX182000Bobby Weed
The Club at Carlton Woods (Fazio Course)The Woodlands, TX182005Tom Fazio
Boot Ranch Golf ClubFredericksburg, TX182006Hal Sutton
Miramont Country ClubBryan, TX182005Robert Trent Jones

Golf Courses in Arizona

Golf CourseLocationNumber of HolesYear EstablishedDesigner
The Boulders Resort & SpaScottsdale, AZ361985Jay Morrish
Troon North Golf ClubScottsdale, AZ361990Tom Weiskopf, Jay Morrish
TPC ScottsdaleScottsdale, AZ361986Tom Weiskopf
Grayhawk Golf ClubScottsdale, AZ361994Tom Fazio
Camelback Golf ClubScottsdale, AZ361970Arthur Jack Snyder
We-Ko-Pa Golf Club (Cholla Course)Fort McDowell, AZ182001Scott Miller
Troon Country ClubScottsdale, AZ181986Jay Morrish
Quintero Golf ClubPeoria, AZ182000Rees Jones
Arizona Biltmore Golf ClubPhoenix, AZ361928Bill Johnston
Southern Dunes Golf ClubMaricopa, AZ181998Schmidt-Curley Design

Conclusion:

When it comes to the US state with the most golf courses per capita, South Carolina, Florida, and Arizona are among the top contenders. Each of these states offers unique golfing experiences, from coastal courses to desert oases. The choice of which state is the ultimate golfing haven depends on your preferences, whether you prefer a coastal setting, desert terrain, or lush landscapes. Regardless of your choice, there’s no shortage of golfing opportunities across the United States.

Which US State has the most golf courses per capita

Author

  • Grace Kaufman

    Grace Kaufman, our Creative Director and a Golf Course Design Specialist, brings a touch of creativity and visual flair to The Golf Mine. With a keen eye for design and a deep understanding of course layout, she ensures that our content not only informs but also engages and inspires. Grace's innovative approach, combined with her specialization in golf course design, enhances the overall experience for our readers, making our blog more than just words on a screen.

    grace@thegolfmine.com Grace Kaufman Grace

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