To take golf seriously you need some golf clubs, golf shoes, golf gloves, golf balls, tees, towel, some lessons and a tee time.
Golf clubs can be purchased used or new. If you are just starting out in the game, I suggest you buy 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 find their site for used golf clubs. If you like getting advice, swinging clubs, and getting an idea, I recommend going to brick-and-mortar stores like Golf Galaxy, PGA Superstore, and Golfsmith and looking at their used clubs and talking to their salespeople. They will let you test the clubs and you can play on their putting surfaces. While new clubs and bag can set you back around $2,000 on average, you should be able to find a good used set for $600 or less.
Golf shoes and golf gloves should be purchased new, however for the best price check out what is on sale. Full-price shoes and gloves will set you back around $150, but on sale you should be able to get by on $60.
A couple dozen cheap golf ball brands will set you back around $50 and a hundred tees for around $8, if you don’t buy a few 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 value overall. Instructors typically cut 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 help a beginning golfer get started.
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 depending on location, course, time of year, etc. But there are some general rules when it comes to the financial aspect 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 a round of 18 holes, 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 moderate prices to six-figure initiation fees.
As you can see, you can spend as much or as little as you like on the cost of golf. However, it is my opinion that it is 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, “priceless.” Go ahead and enjoy life a little and play golf or play more golf.
