If golf is supposed to be a relationship business, why are golfers greeted in pro shops and retail stores with generic transactional questions typically answerable with a single word?
The Masters Tournament has cultivated one of the most passionate followings in any industry. It's a phenomenon worthy of attention, especially as the golf industry more broadly examines strategies that can build enduring loyalty -- without points or perks.
As the golf industry enjoys unprecedented success, NGF research suggests most Core golfers feel like "just another customer," with transaction-based relationships emphasized over loyalty. As customer expectations evolve, relationship-building will likely emerge as the most undervalued innovation frontier in business and, perhaps, a new battleground in golf.
Amid recent increases in participation and play, it isn’t uncommon to hear some golfers lamenting greater limitations on tee time availability. So when it comes to public golf access, where is demand at the highest levels?
A year after the third warmest February on record allowed many golf courses in northern states to get an early jump on the 2024 golf season, the more typical wintry weather conditions in those same states prevented a repeat.
Members looking for more granular supply and demand data at the state level -- from courses, golfers and rounds to price points, demographic breakouts and economic impact -- can find individual one-page summary overviews of the golf landscape from Alaska to Florida.
This comprehensive annual member report provides an in-depth overview of golf facility supply in the U.S. -- from historical trends in the number of golf facilities to detailed information on total supply by state and region, Top 10 lists by state supply, a facility health update, a breakdown of supply by facility type, golf courses in-planning and under construction, the latest on openings and closures, and much more.
January is one of the lowest-volume months of the year when it comes to national play, with about two-thirds of the country still awaiting a true start to their golf season. Even colder temperatures to start 2025 than the prior year contributed to a sluggish start for rounds.
This annual summary through year-end 2024 provides the latest data on golf participation — both traditional on-course golfers and those who engage with the game away from the course. The report includes detailed information on key segments such as beginners, women, people of color, juniors, and a closer look at the continually-expanding pool of non-golfers who say they’re very interested in playing the game.
The annual National Rounds Report provides a summary overview of play across the U.S. in 2024 — from national and state levels. This member report takes a look at rounds trends, with comparisons to pre-pandemic engagement and details about play levels based on age groups, participation segments, and avidity.
Colder December weather in the Northeast and Midwest than a year ago wasn’t enough to derail another record-setting year for play on a national level. It’s the third time in four years that rounds of golf have hit record levels.
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Why Join the NGF?
The NGF has the leading research and business services team in golf, providing you and the industry with the most accurate and latest golf business data and trends.
With proven success in market analysis, sales analytics, direct marketing, and consulting services available, the NGF offers a variety of services than can help you.
The NGF is supported by individuals and companies from every corner of the golf industry, making possible our research, and grow the game and educational initiatives, like Welcome2Golf.
Need Help?
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the NGF and the benefits of membership.

Monika “Moe” Baldwin
(561) 354-1617

Madison Myers
(561) 354-1632