Buffalo Groupe reveals 2024 Golf Travel Study results

A new study by Buffalo Groupe indicates a significant increase in economic optimism among U.S. golfers, leading to a rise in golf travel plans and spending. The Buffalo Groupe Golf Travel Study analyzes the state of golf travel among U.S. golfers, comparing year-over-year trends and focusing on travel behaviors, future intentions and golfer demographics.

Research objectives explored past golf travel behavior, future intentions and additional golfer-focused metrics. The study was based on a survey of more than 700 respondents who must have golfed in the past year, taken a golf trip in the last five years, or taken one or more golf-focused getaways.

"The surge in golf travel confidence and spending is a clear indicator of the industry's robust recovery and sustained growth," CEO Kyle Ragsdale said. " Our findings provide several actionable insights for golf businesses looking to capitalize on this market's potential."

Key Study Findings highlights:

• Strong economic confidence: 81percent of golfers feel optimistic about the economy, a significant increase from only 56 percent in 2023. Additionally, 21percent of golfers feel financially confident.
• Increased spending: 44 percent of golfers plan to spend more on golf travel in 2025, while 48 percent plan to spend the same as last year.
• Destination preferences:

International: Scotland and Ireland remain the most desired international destinations.

Domestic: The Southeast Coast (Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia) is the most popular U.S. destination.

• Shifting social media trends: YouTube and Instagram are now the preferred platforms for consuming golf content, with a significant drop in Facebook usage.