Golf Costs Soar in Southwest Florida

Residents share opinions on rising green fees at local courses

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:04am

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The average cost of a round of golf in Southwest Florida has surged in recent years, with tee times now averaging close to $100 at many courses. The News-Press is seeking input from local golfers on whether the sport is becoming too expensive in the region.

Why it matters

Golf is a major recreational activity and economic driver in Southwest Florida, but rising costs could price out casual players and impact the industry. Understanding local sentiment on golf affordability can inform course operators and policymakers.

The details

A recent study found that golf course fees nationally increased by 29% between 2019 and 2024, with an even steeper 47% jump in Florida. In Southwest Florida, a search of daily rates found morning tee times averaging close to $100, and in some cases exceeding that amount at championship-level public courses.

  • The COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020.
  • The Supreme Golf study covered the period from 2019 to 2024.

The players

Dan DeLuca

A sports reporter for The News-Press who is collecting reader opinions on the rising cost of golf in Southwest Florida.

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What they’re saying

“Is the price of golf becoming too expensive in Southwest Florida? Please share your opinions by emailing sports reporter Dan DeLuca at ddeluca@usatodayco.com.”

— Dan DeLuca, Sports Reporter

What’s next

The News-Press is encouraging readers to email sports reporter Dan DeLuca with their thoughts on whether golf has become too expensive in the Southwest Florida region.

The takeaway

The rising cost of golf in Southwest Florida could price out casual players and impact the local industry, making it important for course operators and policymakers to understand community sentiment on affordability.