New York Golf Course Statistics
- Total Golf Courses: New York has an impressive count of almost 1,000 golf courses, ranking it the third most in the US.
- Oldest Golf Course: Van Cortlandt Golf Course, opened in 1895 in the Bronx, was the first public golf course in the U.S. The Quogue Field Club, built in 1887, is also one of the oldest courses in the country.
- Longest Golf Course: Bethpage Black measures 7,468 yards from the championship tees, making it one of the longest and toughest public courses in New York.
- Public vs. Private Courses: New York offers a balanced mix, with roughly 60% of courses accessible to the public and the remaining 40% private, catering to both everyday golfers and members seeking exclusivity.
Iconic Golf Events in New York
New York has played a pivotal role in the history of golf in the United States. Here are a few historic highlights:
- Birth of the PGA: The Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) was founded in New York City in 1916, with the first PGA Championship held in Bronxville that October.
- 18 National Championships: New York holds the record for the most national championships hosted, with venues like Shinnecock Hills and Oak Hill Country Club showcasing the best of the game.
- Upcoming Ryder Cup: In 2025, Bethpage Black will host the Ryder Cup, bringing international excitement to New York’s fairways once again.
- US Open Returns: Shinnecock Hills will welcome the U.S. Open in 2026, continuing its legacy as one of America’s premier courses.
These major events have solidified New York’s reputation as a top golf destination, showcasing the quality and variety of its courses.
Notable and Unique Golf Courses in New York
New York’s golf courses are known for their rich history and challenging layouts, from scenic fairways to some of the country’s top-ranked courses:
- Shinnecock Hills Golf Club: Established in 1892, Shinnecock Hills is one of the oldest clubs in the U.S. and has hosted multiple U.S. Opens. Fun fact: it was the first golf club in the country to accept female members.
- Bethpage State Park (Black Course): This public course is a beast of a layout and frequently ranks as one of the top public courses in the country. Bethpage Black has hosted several U.S. Opens and will welcome the 2025 Ryder Cup.
- Van Cortlandt Golf Course: Known as the country’s first public golf course, this Bronx course is steeped in history and still offers an enjoyable experience for golfers today.
- National Golf Links of America: Located on Long Island, this course is a favorite among golfers and is known for its strategic design and stunning views.
- Garden City Golf Club: Another historic gem, Garden City has hosted the U.S. Open and multiple U.S. Amateurs, showcasing its enduring appeal and challenging layout.
Looking to play more New York golf courses and save while doing it? The TeeTime Golf Pass offers great golf discounts to many New York courses, letting you explore more without breaking the bank.
New York Golf Stats
Golf is thriving in New York, with millions of rounds played annually across the state. Here’s a look at some recent stats:
- Golf Course Usage: New York courses hosted about 2.6 million rounds in 2022, reflecting a strong golf culture and demand for tee times.
- Rising Rounds Played: The state saw a 7.6% increase in rounds played in 2021 compared to 2020, showing that golf is alive and well in the Empire State.
- Participation Rates: Like national trends, New York’s golf scene saw a 6.1% increase in golfers between 2020 and 2021, with newcomers and returning players hitting the courses in record numbers.
If you’re curious about exploring New York’s golf courses while saving on green fees, the Northeast TeeTime Golf Pass is a great tool for discovering affordable options across the state.
New York State Golfer Stats
New York’s golfers are a diverse bunch, with players of all ages and experience levels hitting the links:
- Male vs. Female Participation: Nationally, around 23% of golfers are women, and this trend likely holds true in New York’s courses.
- Handicap and Skill Levels: The average handicap index for male golfers is approximately 14.2, while female golfers average around 27.5, making golf accessible to players of all abilities.
Youth and Senior Participation: Golf is a lifelong sport, with an average age of 46 for on-course golfers. From youth programs to senior leagues, New York’s courses are busy with golfers of all ages.
Famous Golfers from New York
New York has produced some legendary golfers who have left their mark on the sport:- Gene Sarazen: A seven-time major champion and one of golf’s original legends, Sarazen was born in Harrison, New York, and became a pioneer in the game.
- Walter Hagen: Known for his charisma and competitive spirit, Hagen won 11 major championships and is considered one of the all-time greats in golf.
Economic Impact of Golf in New York
Golf is more than a game in New York; it’s a major contributor to the state’s economy:
- Job Creation: The golf industry supports around 38,000 jobs, spanning positions in course maintenance, hospitality, retail, and more.
- Golf Tourism: New York’s historic and scenic courses draw golfers from all over the world, supporting local tourism and benefiting nearby businesses.
- Revenue and Growth: In 2021, the golf industry contributed an estimated $5.3 billion to New York’s economy, underscoring the sport’s importance to the state.
For golfers looking to explore New York affordably, check out our golf deals app for convenient ways to find tee time deals and keep your rounds budget-friendly.
Golf Courses By City
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Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to questions about the golf courses on TeeTime Golf Pass below:
Van Cortlandt Golf Course, which opened in 1895 in the Bronx, is the oldest public course in the United States. The Quogue Field Club, built in 1887, is another historic gem in New York’s golf scene.
Shinnecock Hills Golf Club is frequently cited as one of the most challenging courses in New York, with high course ratings and a layout that demands precision and skill.