In this article, as the head golf instructor at Tell Me More Golf, I will share our list of the 19 most expensive golf memberships in the world. Spoiler alert, the prices will be mind-blowing for many.
When many people think about golf, exclusive country clubs and perfectly maintained golf courses often come to mind. There are many affordable courses, but there’s also a significant amount of staggeringly expensive golf memberships.
Top 19 Most Expensive Golf Memberships
Here is our list of the 19 most expensive golf memberships in the world. These numbers are generally very accurate, but they can be slightly higher or lower as many initiation fees aren’t public and often change.
#1. Shanqin Bay Golf Club
https://golfproperty.com/golf-course/shanqin-bay-golf-club/
Membership Price: $1,000,000
Location: Hainan, China
While the membership costs aren’t public, Shanqin Bay Golf Club reportedly has an initiation fee of a staggering 1 million dollars. Shanqin Bay Golf Club in China offers a breathtaking seaside course with challenging fairways and stunning ocean views.
It has been ranked among the top golf courses in the world, and with just about 20 members, it’s incredibly exclusive.
#2. Augusta National Golf Club
https://augustacountryclub.co:8443/
Membership Price: $500,000
Location: Georgia, USA
Known for hosting the prestigious Masters Tournament, Augusta National Golf Club commands an initiation fee of $500,000, attracting elite and deep-pocketed golfers from around the world. Its iconic green jacket tradition and meticulously maintained green complexes create an unparalleled atmosphere of tradition and excellence.
#3. Pine Valley Golf Club
https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=113326918677659
Membership Price: $500,000
Location: New Jersey, USA
Renowned for its unmatched design and difficulty, Pine Valley Golf Club in New Jersey requires a substantial initiation fee of $500,000 for a membership. The course’s strategic bunkering and natural ruggedness provide a true test of skill for even the most seasoned golfers.
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#4. Cypress Point Golf Club
http://www.montereypeninsulagolf.com/Cypress-Point-Club
Membership Price: $500,000
Location: California, USA
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of California, Cypress Point Golf Club asks for a $500,000 initiation fee, offering a magnificent course with stunning views and world-class challenges. The course has beautiful natural surroundings, providing an unforgettable golfing experience.
#5. The Madison Club La Quinta
Membership Price: $500,000
Location: California, USA
Situated in the beautiful desert oasis of La Quinta, California, The Madison Club requires a significant initiation fee of $500,000 for full membership. The club’s commitment to privacy and exclusivity ensures a great time on the course and the facility.
#6. Liberty National Golf Club
https://www.libertynationalgc.com/club/scripts/section/section.asp?NS=HP
Membership Price: $450,000
Location: New Jersey, USA
Offering panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, Liberty National Golf Club sets its initiation fee at $450,000, providing an exclusive golfing experience extremely close to New York City. The golf course is outstanding, the club’s facilities are state-of-the-art, and the service is impeccable.
#7. The Yellowstone Club
https://yellowstoneclub.com/experiences/golf
Membership Price: $400,000
Location: Montana, USA
While not solely focused on golf, The Yellowstone Club in Montana features a $400,000 initiation fee, granting members access to a wide range of exclusive recreational activities, including golf, skiing, and more. The club’s sprawling wilderness and luxurious amenities create a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
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#8. Trump National Bedminister
https://www.trumpnationalbedminster.com/
Membership Price: $350,000
Location: New Jersey, USA
Owned by former President Donald Trump, Trump National Bedminster in New Jersey requires an initiation fee of $350,000, offering a championship course and luxurious facilities. The club’s commitment to excellence and attention to detail ensure a world-class golfing experience.
#9. The Vintage Club
https://www.thevintageclub.com/
Membership Price: $500,000
Location: California, USA
Located in California’s Coachella Valley, The Vintage Club sets its initiation fee at $500,000, allowing members to enjoy a premier golfing experience amidst lush desert landscapes and exceptional amenities. The club’s commitment to personalized service and privacy makes it a sought-after destination for golf enthusiasts.
#10. Fisher Island Club
https://www.fisherislandclub.com/golf
Membership Price: $250,000
Location: California, USA
Accessible only by boat, Fisher Island Club in Miami, Florida, charges an initiation fee of $250,000, providing an idyllic tropical retreat with a championship golf course and exclusive club access. The club’s luxurious residential community and world-class amenities offer a truly unparalleled lifestyle.
#11. Los Angeles Country Club
Membership Price: $250,000
Location: California, USA
With an initiation fee of $250,000, the Los Angeles Country Club stands as a premier golfing destination in the heart of the city, offering two championship courses and an exciting history. The club’s commitment to tradition and impeccable course conditions make it a favorite among golf connoisseurs.
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#12. Winged Foot Golf Club
Membership Price: $250,000
Location: New York, USA
Renowned for its demanding fairways and challenging greens, Winged Foot Golf Club in New York requires a $250,000 initiation fee, attracting avid golfers seeking a true test of skill. The club’s rich history, having hosted multiple major championships, adds to its allure and prestige.
#13. Shinnecook Hills Golf Club
https://www.shinnecockhillsgolfclub.org/
Membership Price: $250,000
Location: New York, USA
With a rich history and a $250,000 initiation fee, Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in New York is known for its iconic layout and its status as one of golf’s most challenging and prestigious venues. The club’s commitment to maintaining its original design and classic style makes it a must-play for golf purists.
#14. Ocean Reef Club
Membership Price: $235,000
Location: Florida, USA
Set amidst the stunning backdrop of the Florida Keys, Ocean Reef Club charges an initiation fee of $235,000, inviting members to indulge in a luxurious coastal lifestyle with access to a top-notch golf course. The club’s vibrant social scene and abundance of recreational activities create a vibrant community for its members.
#15. St. Andrews Golf Club
https://standrews.com/golf/courses/old-course
Membership Price: $200,000
Location: Fife, Scotland
Known as the birthplace of golf, St. Andrews Golf Club in Scotland carries an initiation fee of $200,000, offering golfers the opportunity to play on historic and revered courses steeped in tradition. The club’s connection to the game’s origins and its unmatched sense of heritage make it a pilgrimage for golf lovers worldwide.
#16. Wentworth Golf Club
https://www.wentworthclub.com/golf/
Membership Price: $200,000
Location: Surrey, England
Situated in the picturesque English countryside just outside of London, Wentworth Golf Club requests an initiation fee of $200,000, providing members with a classic parkland course and an elegant golfing experience. The club’s prestigious golfing heritage and its commitment to hosting top tournaments solidify its reputation as a premier golf destination.
#17. Cherokee Town and Country Club
Membership Price: $200,000
Location: Georgia, USA
Located in Georgia, Cherokee Town and Country Club sets the initiation fee at $200,000, offering two championship courses and a prestigious environment for its discerning membership. The club’s commitment to providing an all-encompassing country club experience, including exceptional dining and social activities, sets it apart.
#18. Congressional Country Club
Membership Price: $150,000
Location: Maryland, USA
With a proud tournament history and an initiation fee of $150,000, Congressional Country Club in Maryland provides golfers with a challenging course and a renowned golfing legacy. The club’s storied past, having hosted numerous major championships, adds to its allure and reputation.
#19. National Golf Links of America
Membership Price: $150,000
Location: New York, USA
As one of the most highly regarded courses in the United States, National Golf Links of America in New York requires a $150,000 initiation fee, allowing members to experience a true golfing masterpiece and become part of golfing history. The club’s timeless design and commitment to upholding the spirit of the game make it a bucket-list destination for golf enthusiasts.
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TellMeMoreGolf.com – Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to join the Madison Club La Quinta?
Madison Club La Quinta is one of the most prestigious golf memberships in the world, and it comes with an initiation fee of $500,000.
How much does an Augusta membership cost?
While the data isn’t public, an Augusta membership is believed to cost $500,000. Then, after that, there are other fees charged yearly.
How much does it cost to join Virginia Country Club?
Virginia Country Club is a very expensive golf membership with an initiation fee of about $75,000.
How much does it cost to join Birnam Wood?
Joining Birnam Wood comes with an initiation fee of $100,000, making it one of the most expensive golf memberships in the US.
Conclusion:
There are plenty of very expensive golf memberships, and it’s to no one’s surprise that most of them are found in the golf-loving US. The number one spot might be surprising though, as it’s in China.
Generally speaking, most very expensive golf memberships, such as Augusta and Pine Valley with initiation fees of $500,000, are also the best golf courses in the world. This makes the staggeringly high price tags worth it, if you have the means.
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