How Much to Golf? Your Ultimate Cost Guide for Players

Trying to figure out how much to golf can feel like aiming at a moving target. With prices that swing wildly from one course to the next and from one day to the next, it’s tough to know what a “fair” price really is. You’re likely wondering if you’re overpaying, how to find the best deals, and what hidden costs might be lurking beyond the initial green fee. This guide cuts through the noise, using hard data to give you a clear and accurate picture of golfing costs today.

The median cost for an 18-hole round of golf at a public U.S. course is approximately $36, including a cart. However, a more typical price range for a casual round at a decent public course is between $40 and $75, depending on location, time, and quality.

Leveraging an extensive analysis of over 5.4 million rounds played, we’ll break down the key factors that drive prices up or down. This guide unpacks everything from state-by-state price differences to the secret power of “twilight rates,” providing you with the critical insights needed to navigate the world of golf pricing. You’ll learn exactly what to expect, how to budget effectively, and where to find the best value for your money.

Key Facts

• The National Median: The median cost for an 18-hole round at a public golf course is $36, a figure that often includes the use of a golf cart, as highlighted by data analysis from Golfweek.
• State-by-State Variance is Huge: The average cost to play can be ten times higher in one state than another. Based on a 2023 analysis from Supreme Golf, prices range from just $14 in Alaska to $143 in Nevada.
• Premium Golf Comes at a Premium Price: A round at an elite resort course can be a significant investment. For instance, playing at world-famous destinations like Pebble Beach can cost between $495 and $635 for a single 18-hole round.
• Timing Is a Key Cost Factor: When you play matters just as much as where. Weekend morning tee times are consistently the most expensive, while playing on a weekday or in the late afternoon (“twilight hours”) can offer substantial savings.
• Look Out for Hidden Costs: The advertised green fee isn’t always the final price. Renting clubs can add an extra $50 to $70 to your bill, and other fees for range balls, non-playing riders, and taxes can also increase the total cost.

What Is the Average Cost for a Round of Golf in 2023?

The median cost for an 18-hole round at a public golf course is approximately $36, including a cart. However, most casual rounds at a decent course will typically cost between $40 and $75. This price serves as a great national benchmark, but it’s just the starting point of the story. The actual amount you’ll pay is influenced by a huge number of factors.

Here’s the deal:

According to Golfweek, the $36 figure represents the midpoint of what golfers are paying across the country at public courses. This means half of all rounds are cheaper, and half are more expensive. While some rounds in America can be found for as little as $15, others at premier, bucket-list destinations can soar to over $600.

But why such a massive difference between a $14 round in Alaska and a $600+ round at a resort? The answer lies in a combination of location, course quality, demand, and timing. Let’s dive into the data to see how these factors create such a wide spectrum of pricing.

How Golf Costs Vary Dramatically by U.S. State

Based on 2023 data, the average cost to golf varies widely by state, from as low as $14 in Alaska to as high as $143 in Nevada, with warmer states and those with scenic views typically having higher prices. Your geographic location is one of the single biggest drivers of how much you’ll pay for a round.

To give you the most accurate picture, we’re looking at robust, recent data. An extensive 2023 analysis by Supreme Golf, which reviewed over 5.4 million rounds played, provides a clear state-by-state breakdown of average tee time prices. As you’ll see, warmer weather states and destinations known for stunning scenery command higher prices.

Quick Fact: The average round in Nevada ($143) costs more than ten times the average round in Alaska ($14).

Here is a look at the average tee time prices across the United States, sorted from the most affordable to the most expensive:

This data clearly shows that simply crossing a state line can dramatically change your expected cost to play golf.

Decoding ‘How Much to Golf’: The 4 Key Factors That Drive Prices

The primary factors determining golf costs are the type of course (municipal is cheapest), the day and time you play (weekends and peak times are pricier), the season (peak season costs more), and whether the course uses dynamic pricing. Beyond your state, these four variables are what you need to understand to truly master the art of budgeting for golf.

Here’s a breakdown of each factor:

1. The Type of Course
   • Municipal Courses: City-owned and the most budget-friendly.
   • Public Courses: Privately owned but open to the public, representing the middle ground.
   • Private Clubs: Require memberships and are generally inaccessible for one-off rounds.
   • Resort/Destination Courses: High-end courses associated with hotels or luxury destinations, commanding the highest prices.
2. Time of Play
   • Day of the Week: Weekends and holidays are always more expensive than weekdays due to higher demand.
   • Time of Day: The most desirable morning slots (e.g., 8 AM – 11 AM) are priced the highest. “Twilight” rates in the late afternoon offer significant discounts.
3. Seasonality
   • Peak Season: In regions with distinct seasons, prices soar during the months with the best weather. For example, a course in a seasonal area might jump from $123 to $225 between its off-season and peak season.
   • Off-Season: Playing during colder or hotter months can yield huge savings if you’re willing to brave the elements.
4. The Pricing Model
   • Standard Pricing: A fixed price for a given day and time.
   • Dynamic Pricing: Rates that change in real-time based on demand, similar to airline tickets.

Pro Tip: If your schedule is flexible, playing on a weekday afternoon is one of the single best ways to lower your cost per round.

1. The Type of Course: From Municipal to Ultra-Exclusive

Municipal courses are the most affordable option, while public courses offer a mid-range value. Resort and private courses represent the highest cost, with fees reaching over $600 per round. The type of course you choose is the foundation of your total expense.

• Municipal Courses: These city-owned facilities are a godsend for budget-conscious golfers. They consistently offer the best value, typically costing around $10 less than other public options. You can often find a round at a muni for under $40, even on a weekend.
• Public Courses: This is the broadest category, covering everything from basic local courses to well-maintained, challenging layouts. This is where you’ll find the national median of $36 and the typical $40-$75 range. The quality and price can vary greatly within this category.
• Private Clubs: These are generally off-limits to the public and operate on a membership model. Costs involve hefty initiation fees, which can be in the six figures, plus annual dues.
• Resort/Destination Courses: Ever wondered what a $600 round of golf gets you? Courses like Pebble Beach offer not just a game, but a bucket-list experience. These are the pinnacle of public-access golf, attached to luxury resorts and carrying premium price tags. Well-known examples include Shadow Creek in Las Vegas ($500+), TPC Sawgrass (home of The Players Championship), and Pebble Beach ($495-$635).

2. Timing is Everything: Day, Time, and Seasonality

Playing on weekdays and during “twilight” hours (late afternoon) offers significant discounts compared to prime weekend times. Prices also increase during a region’s peak golfing season. If you can be flexible with your schedule, you can unlock serious savings.

Day of the Week
It’s a simple rule of supply and demand: more people want to play on Saturdays and Sundays, so courses charge more. A round that costs $58 on a weekday might cost $68 on a weekend.

Time of Day
The most sought-after tee times are typically between 8 AM and 11 AM. To encourage play during slower periods, most courses offer discounted “twilight” or “super twilight” rates for players teeing off in the late afternoon. You might not finish all 18 holes before dark, but the savings can be substantial.

A great example comes from Beachwood Golf Club in Myrtle Beach. While their standard rates run $50-$75, their twilight rates begin at just $40, offering a nice discount for an afternoon round.

Seasonality
In golf destinations like Myrtle Beach or Arizona, prices fluctuate dramatically with the seasons. A round during the scorching summer (off-season) might be a bargain, but that same round during the pleasant spring or fall (peak season) could cost double. Evidence suggests a course in a seasonal market could charge $123 in the off-season and see that price jump to $225 during peak travel months.

3. The Rise of Dynamic Pricing

Many courses now use dynamic pricing, where rates change in real-time based on demand, meaning booking further in advance can sometimes lock in a better price. This model is becoming increasingly common in the golf industry.

Think of it like booking a flight: the price for the same “seat” on the first tee can change daily based on demand. If a certain day has a lot of bookings, the remaining tee times will become more expensive. Conversely, if a day is wide open, the course might lower prices to attract players. This system, also used heavily by hotels, means that the price you see today for a tee time next week might be different tomorrow. Booking early can often help you secure a lower rate before demand builds up.

Beyond the Green Fee: Uncovering Additional Golfing Costs

Your total cost will often be higher than the green fee. Be prepared for extra charges for cart rentals (around $23), club rentals ($50+), range balls, and taxes. The advertised “green fee” is simply the price to walk the course. Many other expenses can pop up.

Pro Tip: Always ask what’s included when you book a tee time. A low green fee might not be a great deal if a cart and range balls are expensive extras.

Here are the most common add-on costs to budget for:

• Golf Cart Rental: While the national median price often includes a cart, it’s never guaranteed. If priced separately, a cart fee can add a significant amount. For example, some courses charge around $23 per rider for 18 holes.
• Club Rentals: If you’re traveling or new to the game, you’ll need to rent clubs. This is a major additional expense. Be prepared to pay anywhere from $50 for 9 holes to $70 for 18 holes for a standard rental set.
• Range Balls: Some courses include a small bucket of balls for you to warm up with, but most charge separately. A large bucket can cost around $21.
• Rider Fees: If you have a non-golfer who wants to ride along with you in the cart, the course will likely charge a “rider fee,” which can be as much as $35.
• Taxes and Fees: Just like with any other purchase, the price you see listed for a green fee often does not include local and state taxes.

How to Save Money on Golf: 5 Smart Ways to Play for Less

To save money on golf, play during off-peak times (weekdays, twilight hours), look for resident, senior, or junior discounts, and inquire about multi-round packages or local golf passes. With a little bit of planning, you can significantly reduce your average cost per round.

Here are five proven strategies to play for less:

1. Embrace Off-Peak Play: This is the easiest way to save money. If you can shift your round from 10 AM on a Saturday to 3 PM on a Tuesday, you are almost guaranteed to pay less. Look for those “twilight” rates, which offer the best value of the day.

2. Ask About Discounts: Never assume the first price you see is the only price. Many courses offer specific discounts you may be eligible for. Common examples include:

   • Resident Discounts: Cheaper rates for locals who can prove residency.
   • Senior Rates: Reduced prices for golfers over a certain age (often 60+).
   • Junior Rates: Excellent deals for golfers 17 and under to encourage the next generation. For example, Furman Golf Club offers a junior rate of $43 with a cart, compared to the standard adult rate.
3. Look for Package Deals: If you’re playing in a golf destination, booking multiple rounds through a single provider or directly with a course can often unlock a multi-round discount. This is also common for groups, so if you’re traveling with friends, be sure to ask about group rates.

4. Walk, Don’t Ride: If the course allows it and you’re physically able, walking instead of taking a cart is a fantastic way to save money and get some exercise. This can easily save you $15-$25 per round.

5. Consider a Golf Pass or Membership: If you plan to play frequently in your local area, look into regional golf passes or a flexible membership. These programs often require an upfront payment but provide heavily discounted (or even “free”) green fees at a network of participating courses for a set period.

Which of these money-saving tactics have you used to get a great deal on a round?

Getting into golf doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank. Equipping yourself with the right gear is the first step, and there are plenty of excellent, affordable options to get you started on the course.

FAQs About how much to golf

Here are answers to some of the most common questions golfers have about the cost of playing.

How much does a game of golf usually cost?

A typical 18-hole round of golf at a decent public course costs between $40 and $75. The national median cost is around $36, but prices can range from under $20 at a municipal course to over $500 at a premier resort. Your final price will depend heavily on the course’s quality, location, and the time you choose to play.

Is golf an expensive hobby?

Golf can be as expensive as you make it. While playing at private clubs and resorts is very costly, you can play regularly for a reasonable price by choosing municipal courses, playing at off-peak times, and looking for discounts. The initial cost of equipment can be a barrier for some, but a budget-conscious player who walks public courses can enjoy the hobby without spending a fortune.

How much does it cost to play 18 holes of golf with a cart?

The median price of $36 at a public course often includes a cart. However, if priced separately, a cart rental can add approximately $15 to $25 to your green fee. It’s crucial to confirm whether the cart is included when you book your tee time, as this can be a significant portion of the total cost if it’s an add-on.

What’s the difference between a green fee and a tee time?

A “tee time” is your reservation to start playing. The “green fee” is the price you pay for that reservation to play the course. Think of it like a restaurant: the tee time is your reservation for a table, and the green fee is the cost of the meal you have at that table.

Final Summary: Budgeting Your Next Round of Golf

Understanding how much to golf is about recognizing the variables and knowing how to use them to your advantage. While the headlines about $600 rounds at Pebble Beach can be intimidating, the reality for most golfers is far more manageable. The data shows that with a bit of knowledge, golf can be an accessible and affordable hobby.

To recap the most critical points:

• The true benchmark for a standard round is the $36 median at a public course, with a typical range of $40-$75.
• Your location, the type of course, and the time you play are the three biggest factors that will determine your final cost.
• Always be on the lookout for ways to save, especially by playing on weekdays, taking advantage of twilight rates, and asking about resident or senior discounts.
• Don’t forget to budget for extras like cart fees, club rentals, and range balls, which are often not included in the green fee.

Now that you know the factors that drive golf prices, you can find the right course at the right price for your budget. Happy golfing

Last update on 2025-07-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API