Economic Impact Report

Golf in Wisconsin generates $6.44 billion in total economic impact, supports 56,595 jobs, and contributes $2.0 billion in wages, underscoring the industry’s dynamic role in Wisconsin’s economy and communities. The game produced $3.37 billion in direct economic impact and returned more than $288 million in state and local taxes.

Golfers played 11.24 million rounds in 2023, and Wisconsin attracted 1.8 million golf trips that fueled $902.7 million in direct golf tourism impact. These numbers reflect both the strength of everyday public play and the powerful draw of nationally recognized destinations such as Whistling Straits, Erin Hills, Sand Valley, Mammoth Dunes, and Blackwolf Run, positioning Wisconsin as one of the country’s most compelling golf markets.

The industry’s $6.44 billion total impact outpaces the combined contributions of Wisconsin’s craft beer, wine, local spirits, and Packers home-game industries, which together generate nearly $5 billion. This report highlights how golf strengthens local economies.