To get serious about golf, you need some golf clubs, golf shoes, golf gloves, golf balls, tees, a towel, some lessons, and a tee time.
Golf clubs can be purchased used or new. If you are just getting started in the game, I suggest buying used golf equipment. In my opinion the best and safest places for used equipment online are globalgolf.com and 2ndSwing.com or you can google Calloway or Taylormade and look up their used golf clubs site. If you like getting advice, swinging your clubs and getting an idea, I recommend going to physical stores like Golf Galaxy, PGA Superstore and Golfsmith and looking at their used clubs and talking to their salespeople. They will allow you to test the clubs and you will be able to play on their putting surfaces. While new clubs and bag can cost you on average around $2,000, you should be able to find a good used set for $600 or less.
Golf shoes and golf gloves must be purchased new, however for the best price check out those that are on sale. Full-price shoes and gloves will set you back about $150, but on sale you should be able to get by on $60.
A couple dozen low priced brands of golf balls will set you back around $50 and a hundred tees for around $8, if you don’t buy some on the golf course for free, while the towel will set you back around $ 12.
Typical Lesson Costs: Rates average $50-$60 for a 30-45 minute private lesson. Instructors sometimes offer hour-long sessions for $75 to $90, which is a better overall value. Instructors typically reduce fees by 15 percent or more if golfers purchase a package of lessons, which are typically offered in groups of six. Golfers can purchase a package of six 30-minute lessons for around $250 ($42 per session) or six one-hour lessons for $375 ($62.50 per session). How many lessons are based on your current level of play and general athleticism for a beginner. Six lessons, plus time on a driving range, chipping area, and putting green should get a beginning golfer off to a good start.
According to a Golf Channel survey, the average cost of an 18-hole round of golf at a public golf course is $36, including the cart. However, this can vary drastically based on location, course, time of year, etc. But there are some general rules of thumb when it comes to the financial side of the cost of golf.
The first rule of thumb is to make sure you know what you’re getting before you book a tee time. A golf cart is usually included with the cost of an 18-hole round, but not always. Many courses also offer discounts for residents, seniors, and late afternoon rounds. Weekends are usually more expensive.
Private clubs are more expensive with annual membership and additional fees, and range from mid-priced to six-figure initiation fees.
As you can see, you can spend as much or as little as you want on the cost of golf. However, it is my opinion that it is well within the reach of the average person to enjoy the game of golf. The camaraderie, friendships, exercise, and general enjoyment you get from a round of golf is, as they say, “invaluable.” Go ahead and enjoy a little life and play golf or play more golf.