Golf occupies a critical place within the state of New York.

New York Golf is a reflection of the Empire State’s character: enduring strength, innovation, community, and connection to the land.

New York is a state of varied landscapes from towering skyscrapers and remote wilderness to world-class industry and timeless natural beauty - across this vibrant mix, New York golf plays a vital role. The industry has grown into a $6.9 billion economic driver, fueling $12.9 billion in total statewide output, supporting 89,044 jobs, and delivering $3.8 billion in wages and benefits in 2023. Its contributions to the economy surpass the combined impact of iconic New York industries including horse racing, craft beverages, and Yankees home games.

In 2023, golfers played 18.2 million rounds statewide. Across 833 courses and 742 facilities, golf provides recreational access from Long Island to the Finger Lakes to the Adirondacks, with 72 percent of facilities open to the public and 153 municipal courses ensuring affordability for all New Yorkers. Golf facilities preserve over 103,000 acres of green infrastructure contributing to air quality, wildlife habitat, water filtration, urban cooling, and flood mitigation - critical ecosystem services in one of the nation’s most densely populated states.

New York’s golf legacy runs deep. Its courses have been home to many of golf’s most iconic moments, hosting 20 U.S. Opens and 13 PGA Championships at renowned venues including Shinnecock Hills, Oak Hill, Winged Foot, and Bethpage Black – the first state-owned course to host a Ryder Cup, cementing New York’s global golf reputation.

The industry stimulates construction and development, boosts tourism, and fuels retail, hospitality, and transportation. Thousands of charitable tournaments hosted annually at New York golf facilities generate millions for local nonprofits, amplifying impact beyond the course. Golf also powers local suppliers - from turfgrass research and course maintenance to food service and equipment sales, golf helps small and mid-sized businesses thrive.

New York golf courses safeguard 38,000 acres of water, wetlands, trees, and native habitat. The industry embraces science-based environmental practices through the New York Golf Industry Best Management Practices (BMP) Guide, developed with the New York Golf Course Foundation, Cornell University, golf course superintendents, and support from the GCSAA. These practices promote responsible water use, habitat protection, and resource efficiency, while preserving the aesthetic and functional value of golf courses. Environmental study data provides insights as to how New York golf courses are supporting climate resilience and sustainable land stewardship.

Economic impacts incorporate 2023 data and provide a basis for comparative analytics to the New York Economic Impact Report published in 2009. Taken together, golf’s economic strength and environmental value illustrate why the sport - and the professionals who sustain it - play a vital role in New York’s future.