Golf thrives in North Carolina: a spotlight on most popular locations

North Carolina loves golf. In fact, there are 560 golf courses in North Carolina, which ranks 8th in the nation. So, if you're a seasoned golfer or just getting started playing, the North Carolina has something for everyone. Here’s a look at the top cities for golf in North Carolina, based on recent data from TeachMe.To.

Charlotte: The Premier Golf Destination

​Charlotte stands out as the top city for golf in North Carolina with 33.33% of the coaches in the state and 27.59% of golf coaching lessons as well. The Dr. Charles L. Sifford Golf Course is the most popular spot, known for its welcoming atmosphere and well-maintained greens. Named after the first African-American to play on the PGA Tour, this 9-hole course is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Charlotte's golfing scene. Another top course is the Harry L. Jones Sr. Golf Course which is an 18-hole course in southwest Charlotte.  And, best of all, these are just two of the 26 golf courses found near Charlotte.

Raleigh: A Close Contender

​Raleigh is another major hub for golf, boasting 19.05% of the coaches and 27.59% of the golf coaching lessons booked. Hedingham is the top choice for golfers in Raleigh, featuring an 18-hole championship golf course that meanders through the Hedingham Community and Neuse River area. This course is complete with lakes, ponds, sculpted sand traps, emerald greens amidst thickly wooded boundaries and subtly rolling fairways.

Apex and Pineville: Sharing the Spotlight

The cities of Apex and Pineville are tied for third place, each accounting for 19.05% of the coaches and 17.24% of lessons booked. Apex is home to the Knights Play Golf Center, a well-known facility offering a unique 27-hole, par-3 course that caters to all skill levels. 

​Pineville’s Golf Village is another popular destination, known for its top-tier coaching and scenic courses. Both towns offer a relaxed, friendly environment for golfers, making them ideal spots for both practice and leisure.

Mint Hill: A Growing Golf Community

Rounding out the list is Mint Hill, contributing 9.52% of the coaches and 10.34% of the lessons booked. The Old Sycamore Golf Club is the standout location in this area, offering a classic golf experience with its beautifully designed course and welcoming community. Mint Hill may be smaller compared to the other cities on this list, but its dedicated golfing community and quality facilities make it a great place for any golf enthusiast.

The future of golf in North Carolina

North Carolina’s golfing scene is diverse and thriving, with cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, Apex, Pineville, and Mint Hill each offering unique experiences for golfers. There are even courses like Pinehurst Resort which hosted the U.S. Open recently during the summer of 2024. 

Whether you're looking to receive expert coaching or just want to enjoy a round on a beautiful course, North Carolina has plenty to offer. As golf continues to grow in popularity across the state, these cities will remain central to the sport’s development, providing excellent opportunities for players of all levels.