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Why Arizona Green Fees Are Increasing: What You Need to Know

Discover why Arizona green fees rise, how snowbirds drive up prices, and why locals deserve a resident rate.

Author

Terence Daniels
September 24, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes

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Why Arizona Green Fees Are Increasing: What You Need to Know

As Arizona is popular among golfers, residents and visitors alike have noticed a rise in golf green fees. If you’re an Arizona local, you might be scratching your head, wondering why your usual weekend round suddenly costs $50-$100 more.

Let's break down the key factors behind the increase, what it means for golfers, and how Arizona can implement more innovative pricing models to ensure everyone gets their fair share of tee times.

Snowbirds Driving Up Demand

Arizona’s winter months bring in an influx of snowbirds—seasonal residents from colder states looking to soak up the sun and hit the fairways. While it's great for tourism, this annual migration significantly increases the demand for tee times.

More demand often means higher prices and Arizona golf courses are cashing in. But what does that mean for you? As snowbirds flock to Arizona, locals are left paying premium prices.

  • Solution: A resident rate could help. Las Vegas, for example, offers discounted rates to Nevada residents to keep golfing affordable year-round. Arizona could take a page from its playbook and offer its residents a similar break on green fees.

Arizona’s Growing Golf Reputation

Over the past decade, Arizona golf courses have positioned themselves among the best in the country. Courses like Troon North and Grayhawk consistently rank as top-tier destinations, driving their prestige and prices.

As Arizona gains a reputation for offering premier golf experiences, it's only natural that prices reflect the elevated demand from high-end travelers.

  • Pro tip: Embrace this trend by timing your rounds during off-peak hours or mid-week, when courses may offer lower green fees.

Maintaining World-Class Courses Costs Money

The desert landscape may be naturally beautiful, but maintaining a lush, playable course in Arizona requires serious investment.

With water scarcity and rising maintenance costs, courses have little choice but to pass some expenses on to the golfer. From the pristine fairways of TPC Scottsdale to the rugged beauty of Whirlwind, the upkeep on these courses adds up, and it’s reflected in the green fees.

  • What you can do: Stay informed on which courses offer deals or play early in the morning for better rates.

Inflation: Not Just for Groceries

Green fees aren’t immune to broader economic factors like inflation. Everything from fuel costs for equipment to labor wages is increasing, and golf course operators are passing those increases along to golfers.

According to Golf Monthly, even essential services like cart rentals are costing more these days, adding to the overall price of a round.

  • Money-saving tip: Skip the cart rental and walk the course. Not only will you save money, but you'll also burn a few extra calories!

Solutions Moving Forward

Arizona golf courses have an opportunity to create fair pricing structures that benefit locals while still capitalizing on tourism. Implementing a resident rate could ease the burden on resident golfers.

By offering discounts or loyalty programs to locals, Arizona courses could strike a balance between keeping golf accessible and maintaining course profitability.

  • Check out the National Golf Foundation for a deeper dive into how rising golf costs affect players. The article offers valuable insight into how golfers nationwide are navigating increasing expenses.

Need To Know

  • The 2024 Presidents Cup is set to be a thrilling showdown between Team USA and the International Team at Royal Montreal Golf Club. With home-field advantage gone, Team USA looks to defend its title and continue its dominant run in this prestigious biennial event. I expect a USA blowout!

  • Augusta National is expanding its weekend TV coverage for the 2025 Masters, giving fans more live action. With extended broadcast windows on Saturday and Sunday, viewers can catch every pivotal moment as the world's best golfers compete for the coveted green jacket. It's a Masters like never before!

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In The Know

  • Registration is now open for the 2024 Pro/Scratch Tournament at Rolling Hills Grass Clippings this December! Sign up for an exciting competition that showcases top talent and provides Arizona golfers with a fantastic opportunity. Don’t miss out—secure your spot today and compete for bragging rights!

  • Discover effective putting drills to enhance your stroke and accuracy. Focus on alignment, distance control, and consistency with simple exercises that elevate your game.

  • Arizona’s overseeding schedule typically runs from mid-September to early October, ensuring lush, green fairways for winter play—courses close temporarily for optimal growth and recovery.

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