More than seven in 10 Irish golf clubs have grown their membership in the last year

More than seven in 10 golf clubs in Ireland increased their membership over the past year, according to the second National Club Survey from Golf Ireland and Sporting Insights.

Of the 261 clubs that responded, 72 percent reported growth, with the average club gaining 32 members. The average full adult membership now costs €1,005 (about £857), 81 percent of clubs are financially stable or profitable and 53 percent of club income comes from memberships.

The survey also points to progress for women and girls. Some 63 percent of clubs grew their women’s membership, and Golf Ireland says its LevelPar programme continues to support participation and the advancement of women in the game. Some 49 percent of clubs reported an increase in junior girls, and eight percent fewer clubs than in the previous report said girls were leaving the game.

The figures come alongside growth in junior membership, which Golf Ireland links to its work in schools. More than 56,000 students have experienced golf through the programme since 2024, and girls have made up between 49 percent and 51 percent of participants each year.

Golf Ireland sent the survey to clubs in December 2025, and responses closed on February 10, 2026. As well as membership, it covers governance and policies, facilities, finances and engagement with Golf Ireland. The findings are based on the information the clubs provided.

The survey follows Golf Ireland’s Economic Impact Report last year, which found that golf supports 15,600 jobs, 21 percent of them directly within clubs. It also showed that golf-related employment has grown by 129 percent since 2014.

Mark Kennelly, Golf Ireland’s chief executive, said: “It’s really encouraging to see so many clubs reporting growth at a time when they are working hard to balance increased demand with the realities of running a modern golf club. It’s clear clubs continue to invest time and effort into creating welcoming environments for new and existing members. We’re pleased with the progress being made in growing participation among women and girls. There is still more to do but these results are positive.”

Vincent Foley, director of development and club support, said the report is being made available to help clubs benchmark their operations. “This will assist the leaders in each golf club to make informed decisions to improve their governance and management practices,” he said. “Our club support team will continue to work with them to provide our broader support services.”

The full report can be accessed here.