News Summary

The golf industry in New York has made a substantial economic impact, generating $12.9 billion and supporting over 89,000 jobs. With more than $1 billion contributed in state and local taxes, golf serves as a vital economic driver. The state features 833 golf courses, with significant increases in participation. Upcoming major events, including the 2025 Ryder Cup, are expected to further boost tourism and economic benefits. Additionally, the industry emphasizes youth development and environmental sustainability, with many facilities engaging in community initiatives and conservation practices.

New York

The golf industry in New York has achieved a significant economic milestone, generating a total impact of $12.9 billion. This robust figure indicates the profound contribution of golf to the state’s economy, alongside its support for 89,044 jobs with a combined labor income of $3.8 billion.

In addition to job creation, golf in New York contributes over $1.03 billion in state and local taxes, underscoring its role in public funding and community support. As of 2023, the state boasts 833 golf courses, 72% of which are public, while 153 are municipal courses, making golf accessible to a wide range of players.

This year marked a notable increase in participation, with golfers playing 18.2 million rounds statewide, reflecting the sport’s popularity and the ongoing investment in golf facilities. The direct economic impact for the golf industry in 2023 alone is reported at $6.9 billion, showcasing the immediate benefits of golf establishments.

Tourism and Major Events

Golf tourism is a crucial segment of this industry, valued at $1.7 billion. Major tournaments and associations alone delivered a direct economic impact of $227.5 million in 2023. Notably, preparations are underway for the 2025 Ryder Cup, which will be hosted at Bethpage Black, expected to attract over 250,000 spectators. This event is projected to generate more than $200 million in economic impact record as the largest in the tournament’s 96-year history.

Other significant upcoming championships include the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, with a series of U.S. Opens and PGA Championships scheduled through 2036. These events are anticipated to further enhance New York’s status in the international golf scene.

Youth Development and Community Engagement

Approximately 69% of golf courses in New York provide development opportunities for youth, including junior and scholastic golf programs, signaling a commitment to growing the next generation of golfers. Furthermore, many courses actively support programs aimed at beginners, seniors, veterans, military personnel, and individuals with disabilities, most notably through initiatives such as PGA HOPE.

In the past year, New York golf facilities have hosted over 14,000 fundraising events, raising more than $267 million for local charities, showcasing the community involvement of the golf industry.

Environmental Stewardship

An essential aspect of the golf industry’s contribution goes beyond economics; sustainability practices are also a focus. Nearly all golf courses, or 98%, employ multiple water conservation practices. New York’s managed greenspace of 103,000 acres plays a critical role in providing ecosystem services, including stormwater filtration and carbon sequestration. Moreover, golf courses diverted 37% of operational waste from landfills in 2023, outpacing similar waste diversion rates in cities like Buffalo and New York City.

Industry Comparisons

The economic impact of golf in New York outstrips contributions from other industries, such as the craft beverage sector, the horse racing industry, and Yankees home games, highlighting its prominence in the state’s economic landscape.

Study Overview

The findings presented in this report were derived from the New York Golf Economic & Environmental Impact Study, conducted by Radius Sports Group in collaboration with the New York Golf Course Foundation and the Empire State Golf Alliance, with assistance from Cornell University. This research underscores both the economic value and environmental importance of the golf industry in New York state.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Magna Hospitality Sells Portfolio of New York Hotels for $489.8 Million
New Hotel Skyscraper Under Construction in Midtown Manhattan
The Fifth Avenue Hotel Named Best Hotel in New York City
MGM Resorts Receives Support for Empire City Casino Project
8 Mile War Canceled Amidst Controversy
Treasury Secretary Warns of Financial Risks in NYC Election
Student Thwarts Potential School Attack in Redwood City
Ryder Cup Golf Tournament Set for Bethpage Black
2025 Ryder Cup Set to Take Place at Bethpage Black Golf Course
Bethpage Black Golf Course Removes Iconic Warning Sign

Additional Resources

• Golf Course Industry: New York Golf Economic Impact
• Forbes: Golf’s Ryder Cup to Deliver $200 Million Economic Impact for New York
• Bloomberg: Ryder Cup Week Set to Generate $200 Million in Economic Impact
• USA Today: Stock Market, Tariffs, and Trump’s Golf Economy
• New York Times: Trump Family and Saudi Golf
• Wikipedia: Golf
• Google Search: New York Golf Economic Impact
• Google Scholar: Golf Economic Impact Study
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
• Google News: New York Golf Industry

Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER

The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.