How Much Does It Cost to Take up Golfing? A Guide for your New Hobby.

Written By Sam Neeser

Golf has a reputation for being an expensive sport, but that doesn’t mean it has to break the bank if you’re just getting started. Like any hobby, the cost of golf depends on your goals, preferences, and how deeply you want to invest. Some golfers want the latest and greatest, while others are perfectly happy with used clubs and local courses.

If you’re a recreational golfer looking to get into the sport, it helps to understand the different costs involved, from equipment and clothing to lessons and green fees. We broke down the major expenses so you can budget wisely and start enjoying the game.

The Essentials

The first question new golfers ask is, “How much do clubs cost?” The answer: it depends.

If you’re just testing the waters, buying used clubs is a smart way to save money. Pre-owned sets from sites like Facebook Marketplace, Second Swing, or local pro shops might run $500 to $1000.

Money-Saving Tip:

Start with a used set or a beginner package. You don’t need every club in the bag right away—just a driver, a couple of irons, a wedge, and a putter will get you going.

Once you’re hooked, upgrading to higher-quality clubs from brands like Titleist, Callaway, or TaylorMade could cost $1,000 to $2,500 for a full bag. Oftentimes this kind of expenditure will call for a fitting to make sure you’re getting the best set of clubs for your swing. That will cost you another $100 or so. 

Other equipment to factor in:

  • Golf Bag: $100 – $300

  • Balls: Beginners lose a lot of balls, so you don’t need premium $50-per-dozen golf balls. Recycled or value packs cost around $15–25 per dozen.

  • Tees & Accessories: Tees, ball markers, a glove, and a towel might add $30–50 total.

Golf Apparel

Golf has a dress code, especially at private or semi-private clubs. Even public courses often expect collared shirts and proper footwear. Still, that doesn’t mean you need to break the bank on wardrobe. There are many consignment stores like Well Suited in Scottsdale that should have everything you need. Expect between $200-$500 for a shirt, pants, hat, and shoes. No more than a couple outfits should get you by just fine. 

Money-Saving Tip:

Retailers like Costco, Target, or discount golf outlets sell affordable, performance-friendly golf apparel.

Tee Times

There is a golf course for everybody. When getting started, think about researching some common courses near you. Don’t spend $200 on the fanciest available right away. Save that for when your game is ready for it. Instead, choose a friendly course like a “municipal” course to get comfortable with the rules and experience out there. Tee times can range from $50-$300 depending on where you live and where you’re hoping to play.

Nice To Haves

Golf has found its way to maximize potential spend over the years, and there are endless options to “elevate” your game or have a potential advantage over the next player. This list could go on forever, but we’ll just provide some optional additionals for the beginning golfer to think about before their first round. 

  • Driving Range: A bucket of balls usually costs $5–15, and it’s where you’ll spend most of your early practice time.

  • Golf Cart Fees: If you don’t want to walk, expect to pay $10–25 per person per round for a cart rental.

  • Golf Passes: Some courses may have discount card programs that offer reduced green fees if you’re playing the same course enough.

  • Club Fittings (Optional): Professional club fitting ensures your clubs match your swing. Expect $100–200, often waived if you purchase clubs from the fitter.

Money-Saving Tip:

Start with driving ranges, par-3 courses, and twilight tee times, which are much cheaper.

Final Thoughts

Golf has become widely more accessible over the years, and when answering how much it costs to start, the answer is: it depends. 

For recreational golfers, the best approach is to start small—buy used or entry-level equipment, take a few lessons, and play affordable courses. As your love for the game grows, you can always upgrade your clubs, wardrobe, and course selection. With the right budgeting, anyone can get started and enjoy the challenge, fresh air, and friendships that make golf so rewarding.

Check out our pricing guide below to make sure your purchases are in line with industry standards.

Sam Neeser