Scottsdale Tops 2025 Rankings as Premier U.S. Golf Destination

Scottsdale has been recognized as the leading golf destination in the United States for 2025, according to a recent analysis. The study evaluated over 400 cities, considering factors such as course availability, lodging costs, and climate, to determine the top spots for golf enthusiasts.

 

Arizona emerged prominently in the rankings, with five cities placing in the top 20. Scottsdale secured the top position, followed closely by Yuma at number three, Goodyear at seven, Mesa at eleven, and Phoenix at sixteen.

 

Why Scottsdale Leads the Nation in Golf

 

Scottsdale boasts an impressive number of public golf courses, offering approximately 25 courses per 100,000 residents. This high density provides ample opportunities for both residents and visitors to enjoy the sport.

 

The Scottsdale climate is another significant factor, with abundant sunshine and minimal rainfall, ensuring favorable golfing conditions throughout the year.

 

Additionally, Scottsdale offers relatively affordable lodging options compared to other golf hotspots. The average cost for a five-day stay is around $1,080, making it an attractive destination for extended golf trips.

 

Recent Developments in Scottsdale's Golf Scene

 

In May 2025, the Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale initiated a comprehensive enhancement project on its North Course. The renovation focuses on restoring green surfaces to their original shape and size, resurfacing them with TifEagle turf to improve playability and sustainability. The course is scheduled to reopen in the fall, offering an upgraded experience for golfers.

 

Similarly, Desert Highlands, a private golf course in Scottsdale, began a significant restoration project in April 2025. The $10 million renovation includes redesigning holes, reconstructing tee boxes, and updating greens and bunkers. The course is expected to reopen in November, further enhancing Scottsdale's reputation as a premier golf destination.

 

Top 10 U.S. Cities for Golf Getaways

 

According to the analysis, the top ten cities for golf trips are:

 

1. Scottsdale, AZ

2. Fort Myers, FL

3. Yuma, AZ

4. Indio, CA

5. Kissimmee, FL

6. Lakeland, FL

7. Goodyear, AZ

8. Boca Raton, FL

9. Tallahassee, FL

10. Mission, TX

 

Methodology Behind the Rankings

 

The study analyzed 411 U.S. cities with at least one public golf course, scoring them based on three weighted categories:

 

• Public golf courses per 100,000 residents (50%)
• Accommodation costs for a five-day stay (30%)
• Average annual temperature and precipitation (20%)

 

All scores were standardized to a 0–100 scale to identify the most and least golf-friendly destinations in the U.S.

 

With its combination of abundant courses, favorable climate, and ongoing investments in golf facilities, Scottsdale continues to solidify its position as the premier golf destination in the nation.