GOLFS IMPACT ON THE CAPE & MA
Cape Cod boasts an impressive array of golf courses, ranging from world-class championship layouts to charming public and semi-private clubs. The region's diverse golf offerings attract players of all skill levels, creating a vibrant golf industry that contributes significantly to the local economy. With over 50 courses on the Cape and Islands, the economic impact of the sport is seen in many ways. ( list of course )
Tourism Boost
Golf tourism plays a pivotal role in driving the Cape Cod economy. The allure of beautiful fairways, breathtaking coastal views, and the opportunity to tee off amidst stunning natural landscapes draws golfers from near and far. Visitors who come to Cape Cod specifically for golf contribute to the region's economic growth by spending on accommodations, dining, entertainment, and other local businesses.
Job Creation
The golf industry on Cape Cod supports a significant number of jobs, providing employment opportunities for local residents and seasonal workers. From course maintenance personnel and golf instructors to clubhouse staff and event organizers, golf-related businesses contribute to job creation and help sustain the local workforce.
Real Estate and Development
The presence of golf courses has a positive impact on real estate and property development on Cape Cod. Golf communities and residential developments centered around golf courses often attract homebuyers and investors seeking a premium lifestyle and the chance to live in proximity to their favorite sport. These developments drive construction projects, increase property values, and create additional revenue streams for the local economy.
Small Business Support
Golfing activities contribute to the success of various small businesses on Cape Cod. Golf courses rely on local suppliers for equipment, maintenance, landscaping services, and food and beverage provisions. Additionally, golf-related events such as tournaments and charity fundraisers often collaborate with local businesses, including caterers, event planners, and promotional services, further supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Not to mention all the gear the pro-shops sell! ( to me )
Year-Round Economic Impact
While Cape Cod experiences peak tourism during the summer months, the economic impact of golf extends beyond the traditional tourist season. Golf courses are often open year-round, providing recreational opportunities for both residents and winter visitors. This creates a consistent flow of revenue and helps sustain businesses during the off-season when tourism may be slower.
Community Engagement and Charitable Contributions
Golf on Cape Cod goes beyond mere economic transactions. It fosters community engagement and contributes to various charitable causes. Golf tournaments and events are frequently organized to raise funds for local charities, nonprofits, and community projects, reinforcing the positive social impact of the sport.
Golf has emerged as a significant economic driver for Cape Cod, fueling tourism, job creation, real estate development, and small business support. The region's stunning golf courses not only attract avid golfers but also enhance the overall quality of life for residents. Cape Cod's golf industry serves as a shining example of how a sport can have far-reaching economic benefits while preserving the natural beauty and cultural heritage of a destination.
Whether you're a golf enthusiast or someone who appreciates the economic and social impacts of recreational activities, Cape Cod's golf scene stands as a testament to the power of a beloved sport to drive growth, prosperity, and community engagement.
So what is it worth? Mass Golf Association published a great article on the impact of golf on MA
Link to article: http://alliancemagolf.org
2022 Economic Impact Report Highlights Golf’s Wide-Ranging Positive Impact
The 2022 Impact Report Showcases Economic, Lifestyle and Environmental Gains Produced by Golf in the CommonwealthNORTON, Massachusetts — Massachusetts is home to some of the oldest and most revered public access and private courses in the country, so it’s no surprise that the Bay State is brimming with avid golfers. The game’s popularity has soared in recent years, leading to a host of benefits for playing and non-playing residents alike.
The 2022 Economic Impact Report, which was developed for the Alliance of Massachusetts Golf Organizations (AMGO), showed that in 2022, Massachusetts’ golf industry supported nearly 35,115 jobs, paid out $1.9 billion in wage income, raised over $72.2 million in charitable giving, and contributed $225.8 million in state and local taxes.
Mike Higgins, Executive Director of New England, PGA Section of America, noted the recent growth of golf in Massachusetts: “Golf's popularity has exploded since the last time this report was released, and its impact on the Commonwealth is significant. PGA Professionals are helping to lead the way in growing the game, raising significant dollars for charity and impacting lives throughout golf.”
The game drove $2.06 billion in direct economic activity, an increase of 19% over its $1.74 billion impact in 2012. Further, when considering indirect economic stimulation in industries such as tourism, hospitality, and real estate, the total economic impact topped $3.3 billion.
“This report reflects the incredible levels of impact and engagement we have been experiencing throughout the industry, which benefits and supports citizens throughout the Commonwealth,” said Jesse Menachem, Executive Director/CEO of Mass Golf. “From playing the game, to working in the game, to giving back to a local charity, golf is a vehicle that is essential to our economy, environment and well-being. This was proven throughout the pandemic and holds true given the figures in this report that we were able to achieve through the monumental year of 2022.”
The market for golf continues to thrive in Massachusetts, supporting 221 public access facilities, plus 37 stand-alone driving ranges, and 43 simulator locations. Survey results estimated that 93% percent of facilities offer a junior program—coupled with programs like the PGA Junior League, Youth on Course, and the First Tee, these efforts have ensured that golf will remain accessible, and the game will continue to grow with a new generation.
The abundance of golf courses affords residents approximately 52,000 acres of green space in the state. Don Hearn, Executive Director of Golf Course Superintendents Association of New England, said, “Golf course superintendents have put an emphasis on the environment, outlined in the Best Management Practices for Massachusetts golf courses, and are helping ensure the game remains sustainable.”
The study demonstrates the many ways the game of golf continues to flourish in the Commonwealth. As Elaine Gebhardt, Executive Director of the New England Golf Course Owners Association, put it: “I am so proud of the way AMGO came together to spearhead efforts like the Economic Impact Study. No single organization could pull this off, but as a team we can get the job done. We have a great story to share and now we have current figures to back it up.”
