New York golf generates $12.9 billion according to new economic report

Golf in New York is a $12.9 billion economic engine and steward of 103,000 acres of greenspace, as detailed in the New York Golf Economic and Environmental Impact Report recently released. The industry supports 89,044 jobs and $3.8 billion in labor income, contributing $1.03 billion in state and local taxes across the Empire State. 

New York golf’s footprint is broad and accessible with 833 total courses — 72 percent public and 153 municipal — delivering access across all 10 New York regions. In 2023, golfers played 18.2 million rounds statewide, and the industry produced a direct economic impact of $6.9 billion, reinforcing its role in New York’s fiscal health, community wellness and economic development.  

The industry supported $1.7 billion in golf tourism and generated $227.5 million in direct impact for New York from major tournaments and associations in 2023. The 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black placed New York at the center of the global golf stage, with upcoming championships extending this momentum, including the 2026 U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, followed by a slate of U.S. Opens, PGA Championships, and the KPMG Women’s PGA Championship that will keep New York golf in the global spotlight through 2036. 
 
“New York golf facilities are active in our communities — nearly 69 percent of courses offer youth development opportunities through junior golf or scholastic golf teams,” said Metropolitan PGA of America Section executive director Jeff Voorheis. “While a third support programming for beginners, seniors, veterans, military and individuals with disabilities through initiatives like PGA HOPE and adaptive golf programs — we are committed to making golf accessible for all.” 
 
The report highlights golf’s efficient and responsible use of natural resources. Nearly every course (98 percent) employs multiple water conservation practices such as advanced irrigation scheduling, soil moisture monitoring and the use of wetting agents and drought-tolerant turfgrasses to reduce demand. Collectively, New York’s 103,000 acres of managed greenspace provide vital ecosystem services, from stormwater filtration to carbon sequestration and pollinator habitat. Courses also diverted 37 percent of operational waste from landfills in 2023, surpassing diversion rates in both Buffalo (30 percent) and New York City (21 percent). 

“Golf in New York strengthens our economy and safeguards our environment,” said Huntington Country Club director of golf and grounds, and New York State Turfgrass Association president Tom Kaplun. “Courses account for less than half a percent of the state’s annual water use, while sustaining 103,000 acres of greenspace that filter air and water, support habitat and reduce urban heat. New York superintendents lead in conservation practices while delivering world-class playing conditions.” 
 
The report further highlights local and charitable impacts. Golf facilities across New York hosted more than 14,000 fundraising events in 2023, raising over $267 million for local charities. From hospitals and schools to veterans’ programs and youth initiatives, golf serves as one of the state’s most impactful platforms for philanthropy, according to the report.
 
“At $12.9 billion in total impact, the game outpaces the combined contributions of the state’s craft beverage sector, horse racing industry and Yankees home games,” said Bedford Golf and Tennis Club CGCS and New York Golf Course Foundation president Robert Nielsen. “Our vision is to demonstrate golf’s role in advancing sustainable development and community well-being across New York State.” 
 
The New York Golf Economic and Environmental Impact Study was conducted by Radius Sports Group in agreement with the New York Golf Course Foundation and the Empire State Golf Alliance, with additional collaboration from Cornell University.