How Much Does a Golf Course Manager Make? (2023 Salary Guide)

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How Much Does a Golf Course Manager Make?

Golf is a popular sport enjoyed by people of all ages. But behind the scenes, there are a number of dedicated professionals who work hard to keep golf courses running smoothly. One of these professionals is the golf course manager.

The golf course manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the golf course, from maintenance to staffing. They work closely with the golf course owner to ensure that the course is profitable and well-maintained.

So, how much does a golf course manager make? The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the size of the golf course, the location, and the experience of the manager.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the salary of golf course managers, and we’ll discuss some of the factors that affect their pay. We’ll also provide some tips for aspiring golf course managers who are looking to start their careers in this field.

Title Average Salary Source
Golf Course Manager $68,717 PayScale
Golf Course Superintendent $81,945 Indeed
Golf Course General Manager $101,000 Glassdoor

How Much Do Golf Course Managers Make?

The average salary for a golf course manager is $61,679 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, the salary range can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the size of the golf course, the location, and the manager’s experience level.

Average Salary by State

The average salary for a golf course manager varies significantly from state to state. The states with the highest average salaries are:

  • California: $91,710
  • New Jersey: $86,230
  • New York: $85,230
  • Texas: $82,190
  • Massachusetts: $81,740

The states with the lowest average salaries are:

  • West Virginia: $38,610
  • Mississippi: $40,480
  • Arkansas: $41,370
  • Oklahoma: $42,410
  • Louisiana: $42,610

Average Salary by Experience Level

The average salary for a golf course manager also varies depending on the manager’s experience level. Entry-level golf course managers typically earn around $40,000 per year, while experienced managers can earn upwards of $100,000 per year.

Average Salary by Size of Golf Course

The average salary for a golf course manager also varies depending on the size of the golf course. Managers of larger golf courses typically earn more than managers of smaller golf courses.

Factors that Affect Salary

In addition to the factors listed above, a number of other factors can affect a golf course manager’s salary, including:

  • The location of the golf course
  • The type of golf course (public, private, or resort)
  • The number of holes on the golf course
  • The amenities offered by the golf course
  • The golf course’s reputation

What Education and Skills Do Golf Course Managers Need?

The educational requirements for golf course managers vary depending on the size and type of golf course. However, most employers require at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, hospitality management, or a related field.

In addition to education, golf course managers need a number of skills, including:

  • Leadership and management skills
  • Communication skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Customer service skills
  • Budgeting skills
  • Sales skills
  • Marketing skills
  • Golf course maintenance skills

Education Requirements

The minimum educational requirement for golf course managers is typically a bachelor’s degree in business administration, hospitality management, or a related field. However, some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in business administration or a related field.

Skills Needed

In addition to education, golf course managers need a number of skills, including:

  • Leadership and management skills
  • Communication skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Customer service skills
  • Budgeting skills
  • Sales skills
  • Marketing skills
  • Golf course maintenance skills

Leadership and management skills are essential for golf course managers, as they are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the golf course. Communication skills are also essential, as golf course managers need to be able to communicate effectively with staff, members, and guests. Problem-solving skills are important for troubleshooting issues and developing solutions. Customer service skills are essential for providing excellent service to members and guests. Budgeting skills are important for managing the golf course’s financial resources. Sales skills are important for generating revenue from memberships, tee times, and other services. Marketing skills are important for promoting the golf course to potential members and guests. Golf course maintenance skills are important for ensuring that the golf course is in good condition and that it meets the expectations of members and guests.

The average salary for a golf course manager is $61,679 per year. However, the salary range can vary significantly depending on a number of factors, including the size of the golf course, the location, and the manager’s experience level.

In addition to education, golf course managers need a number of skills, including leadership and management skills, communication skills, problem-solving skills, customer service skills, budgeting skills, sales skills, marketing skills, and golf course maintenance skills.

By developing the necessary skills and education, you can increase your chances of becoming a successful golf course manager.

How Much Does a Golf Course Manager Make?

The average salary for a golf course manager in the United States is $60,646 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, salaries can vary significantly depending on the size of the golf course, the location, and the manager’s experience and education.

Salary by Size of Golf Course

The average salary for a golf course manager at a course with less than 18 holes is $50,795 per year. The average salary for a golf course manager at a course with 18 holes or more is $65,686 per year.

Salary by Location

The average salary for a golf course manager in the Midwest is $57,795 per year. The average salary for a golf course manager in the Northeast is $61,675 per year. The average salary for a golf course manager in the South is $62,520 per year. The average salary for a golf course manager in the West is $64,382 per year.

Salary by Experience

Golf course managers with less than five years of experience earn an average salary of $49,116 per year. Golf course managers with five to ten years of experience earn an average salary of $56,421 per year. Golf course managers with more than ten years of experience earn an average salary of $66,097 per year.

Salary by Education

Golf course managers who have a bachelor’s degree earn an average salary of $61,752 per year. Golf course managers who have a master’s degree earn an average salary of $66,271 per year.

What Is the Job Outlook for Golf Course Managers?

The job outlook for golf course managers is expected to be good over the next few years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of golf course managers will grow by 6% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations.

The growth in the number of golf course managers is expected to be driven by the increasing popularity of golf. The number of golfers in the United States is expected to grow from 24.4 million in 2020 to 26.1 million in 2030.

However, the growth in the number of golf course managers is also expected to be tempered by the increasing cost of building and maintaining golf courses. As a result, some golf courses may close, which could lead to job losses for golf course managers.

Projected Job Growth

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the number of golf course managers will grow by 6% from 2020 to 2030. This growth is expected to be driven by the increasing popularity of golf.

Demand for Golf Course Managers

The demand for golf course managers is expected to be strong over the next few years. The number of golfers in the United States is expected to grow from 24.4 million in 2020 to 26.1 million in 2030.

However, the growth in the number of golf course managers is also expected to be tempered by the increasing cost of building and maintaining golf courses. As a result, some golf courses may close, which could lead to job losses for golf course managers.

How to Become a Golf Course Manager

There are a few different ways to become a golf course manager. The most common path is to earn a bachelor’s degree in business administration, hospitality management, or a related field. Some golf courses may also require managers to have a degree in agronomy or turf management.

In addition to a degree, golf course managers should have experience working in the golf industry. This experience can be gained by working as a golf course attendant, a golf pro, or a golf course superintendent.

Golf course managers should also have strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. They should also be able to work well under pressure and be able to meet deadlines.

Steps to Becoming a Golf Course Manager

The following are the steps to becoming a golf course manager:

1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in business administration, hospitality management, or a related field.
2. Gain experience working in the golf industry.
3. **Develop strong leadership

How much does a golf course manager make?

The average salary for a golf course manager is $62,139 per year. However, salaries can vary depending on the size and location of the golf course, the manager’s experience and education, and the number of courses they manage.

What are the factors that affect a golf course manager’s salary?

The following factors can affect a golf course manager’s salary:

  • Size and location of the golf course: Golf courses in large metropolitan areas typically pay higher salaries than those in rural areas. Similarly, golf courses with a higher number of holes and amenities typically pay higher salaries.
  • Manager’s experience and education: Golf course managers with more experience and education typically earn higher salaries.
  • Number of courses managed: Golf course managers who manage multiple courses typically earn higher salaries than those who manage just one course.

What are the benefits of working as a golf course manager?

In addition to a competitive salary, golf course managers typically enjoy a number of benefits, including:

  • Flexible hours: Golf course managers typically have the flexibility to set their own hours, as long as they are available to work during peak hours.
  • Opportunities for advancement: Golf course managers can advance their careers by taking on additional responsibilities or by moving to larger golf courses.
  • A rewarding career: Golf course managers have the opportunity to work in a beautiful setting and to interact with people from all walks of life.

What are the challenges of working as a golf course manager?

The following are some of the challenges of working as a golf course manager:

  • Long hours: Golf course managers typically work long hours, especially during peak seasons.
  • High-pressure environment: Golf course managers are under pressure to maintain the course in good condition and to provide excellent customer service.
  • Occasional hazards: Golf course managers may be exposed to hazards such as noise, dust, and chemicals.

How can I become a golf course manager?

There are a few different ways to become a golf course manager. The most common path is to start as a golf course assistant and work your way up through the ranks. You can also get a degree in golf course management or a related field.

To be successful as a golf course manager, you need to have a strong understanding of golf course maintenance, as well as excellent customer service skills. You also need to be able to work well under pressure and be able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

What is the future outlook for golf course managers?

The job outlook for golf course managers is expected to be positive over the next few years. The number of golf courses is expected to increase, and golf course managers will be needed to manage these courses. Additionally, as golf courses become more technologically advanced, golf course managers will need to have the skills to use these technologies.

In this article, we have discussed the average salary of a golf course manager, the factors that affect their salary, and the different career paths that can lead to this position. We have also provided some tips for aspiring golf course managers on how to increase their earning potential.

We hope that this information has been helpful and that you have a better understanding of the golf course management industry. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, we encourage you to do your research and make sure that it is the right fit for you.

Author Profile

Matthew Woods
Matthew Woods
Hello, fellow golf enthusiasts! I’m Matthew Woods, the founder of GolfPGAChampionship.com.

My journey with golf is a story of passion, perseverance, and a little twist of fate. Growing up in the picturesque town of Charleston, South Carolina, I found myself captivated by golf, a fascination that was partly kindled by sharing a last name with the legendary Tiger Woods.

This platform is more than just a website; it’s a culmination of my life’s experiences in golf. Here, I share in-depth analyses of PGA championships, personal anecdotes from my golfing journey, and tips for golfers at all levels. My aim? To make golf accessible and enjoyable for everyone, from eager beginners to seasoned players.

GolfPGAChampionship.com is a testament to my belief that golf is not just a sport, but a journey filled with learning, challenges, and personal growth. I invite you to join me in this journey, to explore the beautiful game of golf through my eyes and experiences.

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