It seems like just yesterday Baby Boomers and Gen Xers were criticizing millennials for their social media habits and music tastes. However, as every generation ages, their preferences shift. This likely explains why many millennials are now trading city life for homes in golf course communities across the country. While this move might initially appear surprising, it aligns with a common pattern: people in their 40s, including millennials, often seek a more relaxed lifestyle. Golf course communities offer an ideal environment for this transition, providing a peaceful and leisurely pace of life.
A recent Wall Street Journal feature highlighted several couples who moved to golf course communities, citing the family-friendly and safe atmosphere as key reasons. Historically, homes in these communities have been among the priciest residential options, a trend that persists today.
Notably, the rising property values in major metropolitan areas have driven city housing costs to levels comparable to those in suburban golf communities. Additionally, many millennials were exposed to golf during their upbringing, thanks to its popularity among their Baby Boomer and Gen X parents.
Initially, golf might have seemed dull to younger millennials, who swore off such country club activities. Yet, the National Golf Foundation reported that Americans played over 530 million rounds of golf in 2023, a record high indicating the sport’s growing appeal among younger players. The same report found that golf club memberships nationwide increased by 400,000 since 2019. While 60% of new members are over 50, the remaining 160,000 are under 40, many of whom are millennials joining the clubs associated with their new suburban homes.
Some of this trend can be traced back to the COVID-19 pandemic. Golf, with its spacious outdoor setting, became an ideal sport for social distancing, unlike indoor activities like poker or basketball, which carried higher infection risks. Moreover, the influence of Tiger Woods, who made golf appear cool to many millennials, cannot be understated. The allure of hitting a perfect golf shot keeps many players coming back for more.
These factors make it clear why millennials are drawn to golf course real estate. However, their arrival isn’t always welcomed by older residents of these communities. The presence of younger families and their more lively social activities can clash with the quieter lifestyle preferred by retirees. Despite these tensions, the influx of millennials benefits the golf clubs financially, ensuring their sustainability.
In conclusion, millennials’ move to golf communities is reshaping these neighborhoods, bringing both challenges and advantages. Their participation helps maintain club operations, vital for the continued enjoyment of the sport and the upkeep of these serene communities.
