Michigan’s golf industry stands out as the most significant among cold-weather states, both in scale and economic impact. Despite a winter season that interrupts play for months, Michigan remains a powerhouse in the golf world. It ranks as the top winter-interrupted golf tourism destination in the country, attracting visitors who contribute over $1 billion annually.
With more public courses than any other state and a thriving golf tourism economy, Michigan proves that a short season doesn’t mean a small impact.
Michigan Golf by the Numbers
• Total Courses: 859 (738 public, 121 private)
• Golf Facilities: 709 (604 public, 105 private)
• Annual Economic Impact: $6.1 billion
• Jobs Supported: Over 61,000, with $1.8 billion in wages and benefits
• Rounds Played Last Year: 16.42 million (only Florida, California, and Texas had more)
• Tourism Impact: More than 1.85 million golfers travel to Michigan each year, spending over $1 billion
• Charitable Impact: Michigan golf facilities raised $104.3 million this past year through nearly 4,900 charity events
A National Leader in Golf
Michigan ranks third in the total number of golf courses in the U.S., despite being 10th in size and 11th in population. Outside of warm-weather golf states like Florida and California, few places have a more substantial presence in the golf world.
Non-residents play about three out of every ten rounds in Michigan, highlighting the state’s status as a premier golf destination. Only a handful of states—mostly in the Sunbelt—see a higher percentage of rounds played by visitors.
More Than Just Golf
Beyond the sport itself, Michigan’s golf industry plays a crucial role in environmental sustainability and community impact:
• Green Space & Wildlife Habitats: Michigan golf courses manage 92,200 acres of green space, serving as wildlife sanctuaries while implementing water conservation and natural land management practices.
• Economic Contribution: The industry generates over $821 million in state and local taxes, supporting local economies across Michigan.
• Charity & Community Impact: Thousands of charity events hosted at Michigan golf courses provide significant fundraising opportunities, benefiting various causes.
Michigan’s Golf Culture Remains Strong
Even during the winter, Michigan’s golf community stays engaged through indoor simulators, heated driving ranges, and travel to warmer destinations. When spring arrives, the demand for tee times skyrockets, proving that Michigan golfers are as dedicated as any in the country.
For a cold-weather state, Michigan’s love for golf is undeniable—and the numbers prove that its impact extends far beyond the fairways.
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