WI Golf in the News

From a WGCSA email in early March...

Wisconsin Golf Powers a $6.44 Billion Economic Engine, Driving Jobs, Tourism, and Statewide Impact

Tourism, major events, and world-class public and private courses drive Wisconsin’s thriving golf economy.

A new statewide report released today shows that golf in Wisconsin generates $6.44 billion in total economic impact, supports 56,595 jobs, and contributes $2 billion in wages, underscoring the industry’s dynamic role in Wisconsin’s economy and communities. The game produced $3.37 billion in direct economic impact and returned more than $288 million in state and local taxes.

Golfers played 11.24 million rounds in 2023, and Wisconsin attracted 1.8 million golf trips that fueled $902.7 million in direct golf tourism impact. These numbers reflect both the strength of everyday public play and the powerful draw of nationally recognized destinations such as Whistling Straits, Erin Hills, Sand Valley, Mammoth Dunes, and Blackwolf Run, positioning Wisconsin as one of the country’s most compelling golf markets.

“Golf in Wisconsin is one of the state’s most powerful economic engines,” said Rob Jansen, Executive Director of the Wisconsin State Golf Association. “The industry’s $6.44 billion total impact outpaces the combined contributions of Wisconsin’s craft beer, wine, local spirits, and Packers home-game industries, which together generate nearly $5 billion. This report highlights how golf strengthens local economies, attracts visitors, and enhances our communities.”

Major championships continue to amplify Wisconsin’s national presence. The 2025 U.S. Women’s Open at Erin Hills reaffirmed Wisconsin’s standing as a premier site for championship golf. The 43rd U.S. Senior Open at SentryWorld and the American Family Insurance Championship anchored the 2023 season, building on a legacy that includes the Ryder Cup, multiple PGA Championships, U.S. Opens, and decades of professional-tour events.

Golf delivers meaningful community benefits statewide. Facilities hosted more than 9,000 charitable events last year, raising $166 million for nonprofits supporting youth development, veterans, local schools, healthcare programs, environmental groups, and service organizations. Courses advanced player development at 97% of facilities, offered beginner programs, veterans and adaptive golf programs, and broadened access for youth with rounds at $5 or less through Youth on Course.

Environmental stewardship remains a defining pillar of the industry. Wisconsin’s 528 golf courses provide 73,000 acres of greenspace, offering habitat, stormwater filtration, air-quality benefits, and urban cooling. Facilities across the state have adopted multiple sustainability practices, including advanced irrigation technologies, native-plant conversions, efficient energy systems, recycling, and waste-reduction measures that strengthen ecological resilience.

“Wisconsin’s golf industry is demonstrating what modern golf represents - economic vitality, community connection, and responsible land stewardship,” said Gina Rizzi, President of Radius Sports Group. “The data shows how golf contributes to businesses, residents, and the extraordinary landscapes that define Wisconsin.”

The Wisconsin Golf Economic Impact Study was conducted by Radius Sports Group in agreement with the Wisconsin Golf Alliance comprised of the Wisconsin State Golf Association, Wisconsin Section of the PGA of America, Wisconsin Golf Course Owners Association, the Wisconsin Badger Chapter of the Club Management Association of America, and the Wisconsin Chapter of the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America.

Access the full report at: Wisconsin Golf Economic Impact Report Executive Summary.