How Much Does a Round of Golf Cost in 2026: Complete State-by-State Breakdown

In 2026, the average cost of a round of golf in the United States ranges from $25 to $75 at public courses, with significant variation by state. Municipal courses in states like Kansas and Nebraska can cost as little as $18-25, while resort courses in Hawaii and premium public tracks in California often exceed $150-300. The national average for 18 holes with a cart at a public daily-fee course sits around $52.

After spending over two decades analyzing golf industry trends and personally playing courses across 47 states, I’ve developed a comprehensive understanding of what drives golf pricing in America. In my experience, the question “how much does a round of golf cost” doesn’t have a simple answer—it depends on where you play, when you play, and what type of facility you choose.

This guide provides an exhaustive breakdown of golf costs in 2026, organized by state and course type. Whether you’re planning a golf trip, relocating and wondering about local options, or simply trying to budget for your weekend rounds, you’ll find the data you need to make informed decisions about your golf spending.

Understanding Golf Pricing: The Key Factors That Determine Cost

Before diving into state-by-state numbers, it’s essential to understand what actually determines the cost of a round of golf. I’ve found that many golfers overpay simply because they don’t understand the pricing dynamics at play.

Course Type and Ownership Structure

The type of golf course you play has the most significant impact on price. Here’s how different facility types typically compare:

Course Type	2026 Average Green Fee (18 Holes)	Typical Characteristics
Municipal (City-Owned)	$25-45	Taxpayer-subsidized, open to all, basic amenities
Public Daily Fee	$40-85	Privately owned, open to public, varied quality
Semi-Private	$55-120	Members get priority, public access available
Resort Course	$100-400+	Attached to hotels/resorts, premium experience
Private Club (Guest Fee)	$150-500+	Member introduction required

Time-Based Pricing Variables

Golf courses use dynamic pricing similar to airlines and hotels. Understanding these patterns can save you substantial money:

Day of Week: Weekend rates (Saturday and Sunday) typically run 20-40% higher than weekday rates. In my experience, Friday afternoons often fall into weekend pricing at popular courses.

Time of Day: Morning tee times command premium prices. Twilight rates (typically starting 2-4 hours before sunset) offer discounts of 30-50%. Some courses also offer “super twilight” rates in the final 90 minutes of daylight.

Season: Peak season varies by region. Florida peaks in winter, while northern states peak in summer. Off-season rates can be 20-40% lower than peak pricing.

A critical lesson I’ve learned over the years: the best value in golf isn’t always the cheapest tee time. A $60 round at a well-maintained course with good pace of play often delivers better value than a $30 round that takes 5.5 hours on a poorly maintained track.By Gigi M. Knudtson, Founder

Complete State-by-State Golf Cost Breakdown for 2026

The following comprehensive table represents my analysis of golf pricing across all 50 states, based on aggregated data from course booking platforms, direct course surveys, and industry reports. These figures reflect typical public course pricing for 18 holes including cart rental.

Northeast Region Golf Prices

State	Average Public Course (with cart)	Budget Option Range	Premium Public Range	Peak Season
Connecticut	$62	$35-45	$95-175	May-September
Maine	$52	$30-40	$85-150	June-August
Massachusetts	$68	$38-50	$100-200	May-October
New Hampshire	$54	$32-42	$80-145	June-September
New Jersey	$72	$40-55	$110-225	May-October
New York	$70	$35-50	$125-275	May-October
Pennsylvania	$55	$30-42	$85-165	May-October
Rhode Island	$58	$35-45	$90-160	May-September
Vermont	$56	$32-44	$85-155	June-September

Southeast Region Golf Prices

State	Average Public Course (with cart)	Budget Option Range	Premium Public Range	Peak Season
Alabama	$42	$25-35	$75-140	March-May, Sept-Nov
Florida	$65	$30-45	$150-350	December-April
Georgia	$52	$28-40	$95-200	March-May, Sept-Nov
Kentucky	$44	$25-35	$70-130	April-October
Louisiana	$45	$28-38	$75-135	March-May, Oct-Nov
Mississippi	$38	$22-32	$65-120	March-May, Sept-Nov
North Carolina	$55	$30-42	$100-225	April-October
South Carolina	$58	$32-45	$110-250	March-May, Sept-Nov
Tennessee	$46	$26-38	$80-145	April-October
Virginia	$54	$30-42	$90-175	April-October
West Virginia	$42	$25-35	$70-130	May-October

Midwest Region Golf Prices

State	Average Public Course (with cart)	Budget Option Range	Premium Public Range	Peak Season
Illinois	$52	$28-40	$85-175	May-September
Indiana	$44	$25-35	$75-140	May-September
Iowa	$38	$22-32	$60-110	May-September
Kansas	$35	$18-28	$55-100	April-October
Michigan	$52	$28-40	$90-185	June-September
Minnesota	$48	$26-38	$80-155	June-September
Missouri	$42	$24-35	$70-130	April-October
Nebraska	$36	$20-30	$55-105	May-September
North Dakota	$34	$18-28	$50-95	June-August
Ohio	$48	$26-38	$80-150	May-October
South Dakota	$36	$20-30	$55-100	May-September
Wisconsin	$50	$28-40	$85-200	June-September

Southwest Region Golf Prices

State	Average Public Course (with cart)	Budget Option Range	Premium Public Range	Peak Season
Arizona	$72	$35-50	$175-400	January-April
Nevada	$68	$32-48	$150-350	March-May, Sept-Nov
New Mexico	$48	$28-38	$85-160	April-October
Oklahoma	$38	$22-32	$60-115	April-October
Texas	$52	$28-42	$100-225	March-May, Oct-Nov
Utah	$45	$26-38	$75-145	May-October

West Coast Region Golf Prices

State	Average Public Course (with cart)	Budget Option Range	Premium Public Range	Peak Season
California	$78	$35-55	$175-550	Year-round (varies by region)
Oregon	$55	$30-42	$100-225	May-October
Washington	$54	$30-42	$95-200	May-October

Mountain Region Golf Prices

State	Average Public Course (with cart)	Budget Option Range	Premium Public Range	Peak Season
Colorado	$58	$32-45	$100-200	June-September
Idaho	$45	$26-38	$75-145	May-September
Montana	$48	$28-40	$80-165	June-September
Wyoming	$42	$24-35	$70-130	June-September

Pacific States Golf Prices

State	Average Public Course (with cart)	Budget Option Range	Premium Public Range	Peak Season
Alaska	$52	$30-42	$75-125	June-August
Hawaii	$125	$55-80	$250-550	December-March

Key Finding: The least expensive states for golf in 2026 are North Dakota, Kansas, Nebraska, and South Dakota, where average rounds with cart run $34-38. The most expensive states are Hawaii ($125 average), California ($78), Arizona ($72), and New Jersey ($72).

Calculate Your Golf Costs

To help you estimate your specific golf expenses, use our interactive calculator below. This tool factors in your state, course type, timing preferences, and group size to provide personalized cost estimates.

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Hidden Costs Beyond Green Fees

The green fee and cart rental represent only part of your total golf expenditure. I’ve often seen golfers surprised by additional costs that can add $20-50 or more to their round.

Common Additional Expenses

Item	Typical Cost Range	Notes
Range Balls (bucket)	$6-15	Medium bucket average; some courses include with green fee
Golf Club Rental	$35-75	Higher at resort courses; premium sets available
Pull Cart Rental	$5-10	Alternative to riding cart when walking
Caddie (if available)	$50-100 + tip	Rare at public courses; standard tip is $20-50
Food/Beverage at Turn	$8-20	Hot dog and drink typical purchase
Post-Round Food/Drinks	$15-40	Highly variable based on establishment
Golf Balls (lost)	$3-15	Depends on skill level and ball type
Tips (starter, bag handlers)	$2-10	More common at higher-end facilities

Walking vs. Riding: The Cost-Saving Opportunity

One of the most overlooked ways to reduce golf costs is walking instead of riding. Cart rental typically adds $15-25 per person to your round. Walking 18 holes also provides excellent exercise—roughly 5-6 miles and 1,500-2,000 calories burned.

Is Walking Allowed at All Golf Courses?

No. Some courses, particularly resort properties and those with challenging terrain, require carts. Others restrict walking to specific tee times (usually less desirable times). Municipal courses almost universally allow walking and often offer reduced rates for walkers.

In my experience, courses that don’t allow walking typically cite pace of play concerns, though the real reason is often the revenue from mandatory cart rentals.

Money-Saving Strategies for 2026

After decades of playing golf across America while maintaining a reasonable budget, I’ve identified the most effective strategies for reducing golf costs without sacrificing the quality of your experience.

Proven Ways to Save on Green Fees

Play during twilight hours (typically 2-4 hours before sunset) to save 30-50% on green fees while still completing 18 holes during longer summer days.

Book midweek tee times whenever possible—Tuesday through Thursday typically offers the lowest rates.

Use tee time booking platforms and apps that offer last-minute deals, often providing 20-40% discounts on same-day or next-day bookings.

Consider annual passes or punch cards at frequently played courses—these often provide 20-30% savings over individual round rates.

Play municipal courses, which are taxpayer-subsidized and typically 25-40% less expensive than comparable private daily-fee courses.

Travel during shoulder seasons when courses offer promotional rates to attract play during slower periods.

Walk instead of riding to eliminate the $15-25 per person cart fee.

Common Mistakes That Increase Golf Costs

Booking prime Saturday morning tee times without checking Friday afternoon or Sunday afternoon pricing, which is often significantly lower.

Assuming resort course rates are your only option when traveling—there are almost always quality public alternatives nearby.

Ignoring replay rates, which can save 40-60% on a second round the same day.

Paying rack rate without asking about specials, senior discounts, military discounts, or loyalty program benefits.

Buying premium golf balls when your skill level doesn’t justify the expense—a $25 dozen performs nearly identically to a $50 dozen for most amateur golfers.

Regional Golf Cost Trends for 2026

Understanding regional patterns helps golfers plan trips and anticipate pricing. In my analysis, several distinct regional trends emerge for 2026.

Sun Belt Migration Impact

The continued population migration to Sun Belt states (Florida, Texas, Arizona, Georgia, North Carolina) has increased golf demand in these regions. However, it’s also spurred new course development and competition, somewhat moderating price increases. Florida, in particular, has seen aggressive pricing competition among courses in the Orlando and Tampa Bay areas.

Northern States: Shorter Seasons, Higher Peak Prices

States with compressed golf seasons (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, northern New England) tend to have higher peak-season prices as courses must generate annual revenue in 4-5 months. However, these same states offer exceptional value in May and September when conditions are often ideal but demand is lower.

Desert Golf Economics

Arizona and Nevada golf pricing follows an inverse seasonal pattern to most of the country. Winter months (January-March) command premium prices as snowbirds and vacationers flood the region. Summer rates in Arizona can be 50-70% lower but come with temperatures exceeding 100°F.

In my experience tracking golf prices across decades, 2026 represents a stabilization after the post-pandemic surge. While prices aren’t decreasing, the aggressive year-over-year increases of 2021-2023 have largely subsided. Smart golfers who understand timing and alternatives can still play excellent golf affordably.By Gigi M. Knudtson, Founder

Private Club Membership Costs vs. Daily Fee Golf

For golfers who play frequently, the question of private club membership often arises. Understanding the economics helps determine whether membership makes financial sense.

Private Club Membership Cost Structure (2026 Averages)

Club Category	Initiation Fee	Annual Dues	Monthly Minimum Spend
Basic Private Club	$5,000-15,000	$4,800-8,400	$50-100
Mid-Tier Country Club	$15,000-50,000	$8,400-15,000	$100-200
Premium Country Club	$50,000-150,000	$15,000-30,000	$200-400
Elite/Exclusive Club	$150,000-500,000+	$20,000-50,000+	Varies widely

The Break-Even Calculation

To determine if private club membership makes financial sense, calculate your current annual golf spending and compare it to projected membership costs. As a general rule, if you play 60+ rounds annually at an average cost of $60-80 per round (including cart), entry-level private membership may offer comparable value—with added benefits of better course conditions, practice facilities, and social opportunities.

What Are the Non-Financial Benefits of Private Club Membership?

Beyond pure cost comparison, private clubs offer benefits that are difficult to quantify: preferred tee times without online competition, faster pace of play due to member-only access, superior course conditioning, networking opportunities, family programming, and a sense of community among regular players.

Step-by-Step Process to Find the Best Golf Value in Your Area

Whether you’re new to an area or simply looking to optimize your golf spending, follow this systematic approach:

1. Identify All Options Within Your Radius: Create a comprehensive list of every golf course within your acceptable driving distance. Include municipal, public daily fee, semi-private, and resort courses.
2. Research Published Rates: Visit each course’s website or call to obtain current rack rates for weekday, weekend, twilight, and walking options.
3. Investigate Discount Programs: Ask about loyalty programs, annual passes, senior rates (typically 55+), military discounts, and junior rates for younger players.
4. Check Third-Party Booking Platforms: Compare direct booking prices to rates available through tee time aggregator services and apps.
5. Read Recent Reviews: Course conditions vary significantly. A lower-priced course in excellent condition may offer better value than a higher-priced course with poor maintenance.
6. Make Test Visits: Play each promising course once during peak and off-peak times to assess pace of play, conditions, and overall experience.
7. Calculate True Cost Per Round: Factor in driving distance (fuel cost), typical food/beverage spending, and any lost balls to determine actual round cost.
8. Establish a Rotation: Based on your analysis, create a rotation of 3-5 courses that offer the best combination of value, convenience, and playing experience.

Future Golf Pricing Outlook: 2026 and Beyond

Based on industry trends and economic factors, several developments will influence golf pricing in coming years:

Labor Costs: Course maintenance labor costs continue rising, particularly in states with high minimum wages. This pressure will continue pushing green fees upward, especially at courses that maintain premium conditions.

Water and Environmental Costs: Drought conditions in western states and increasing water costs nationwide impact course operating expenses. Desert courses face particularly challenging economics as water becomes more expensive and potentially restricted.

Technology Integration: GPS cart systems, automated check-in, and reduced staffing through technology help courses manage costs and may moderate price increases.

New Course Development: After decades of more course closures than openings, development is cautiously increasing in high-growth markets. New supply creates competition that benefits consumers.

Important Consideration: While this guide provides comprehensive 2026 data, golf pricing is dynamic. Courses adjust rates seasonally and annually. Always verify current pricing directly with the course before making plans, especially for special occasions or travel.

Frequently Asked Questions About Golf Costs

What is the average cost of a round of golf in 2026?

The national average cost for 18 holes of golf with a cart at a public daily-fee course in 2026 is approximately $52. This varies significantly by state, ranging from around $34-38 in states like North Dakota, Kansas, and Nebraska to $72-125 in premium markets like Hawaii, California, and Arizona. Municipal courses typically cost less ($25-45), while resort courses can range from $100-400 or more.

Which state has the cheapest golf in 2026?

North Dakota offers the lowest average golf costs in 2026, with typical public course rounds averaging $34 including cart rental. Other affordable golf states include Kansas ($35), Nebraska and South Dakota ($36), and Mississippi ($38). These states combine lower operating costs, less real estate pressure, and strong municipal course systems to deliver budget-friendly golf.

How much does it cost to rent a golf cart for 18 holes?

Golf cart rental for 18 holes typically costs $15-25 per person in 2026, though this is often included in the quoted green fee. When cart fees are separate, expect to pay $30-50 per cart (shared between two players). Some courses charge per seat, while others charge per cart. Premium and resort courses may charge $20-35 per person for cart rental.

Is golf more expensive on weekends than weekdays?

Yes, weekend golf rates are typically 20-40% higher than weekday rates. Saturday and Sunday mornings command the highest prices at most courses. Many courses also consider Friday afternoons as weekend pricing. To save money, play Tuesday through Thursday, or take advantage of Sunday afternoon twilight rates which often drop to weekday levels.

What is twilight golf and how much can I save?

Twilight golf refers to tee times that begin in the late afternoon, typically 2-4 hours before sunset. Courses offer discounted rates of 30-50% off standard green fees during this time because golfers may not complete all 18 holes before dark. During summer months with longer daylight hours, twilight golf offers excellent value as completing a full round is often possible. Some courses also offer super twilight rates in the final 90 minutes of daylight with even steeper discounts.

How much should I budget for a golf trip including all expenses?

For a complete golf trip budget, plan for green fees plus 40-60% additional for related expenses. Beyond green fees ($40-150 per round depending on location and course type), budget for: cart rental if not included ($15-25), range balls ($8-15), on-course food and drinks ($15-30), equipment rental if needed ($35-75), tips ($5-15), and lost balls ($5-15). A reasonable daily golf budget ranges from $75-100 for budget-conscious play to $200-400 for premium experiences.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. The outcome of any legal matter depends on the specific facts and circumstances of the case.

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