A study conducted jointly by Club Benchmarking, the Club Management Association of America (CMAA) and the National Club Association (NCA) revealed the vast economic impact that private clubs have across the U.S. The research indicates these clubs collectively generated $32.6 billion in direct revenue in 2023, supported a $17.4 billion payroll and employed 573,000 workers, underscoring private clubs as a vital contributor to the national and local economies.
Across the U.S., there are approximately 5,659 private clubs, ranging from golf and country clubs to yacht and racquet clubs. The Economic Impact Study focused on 3,887 of these clubs, each with annual revenues exceeding $1 million.
This research is a step in quantifying the economic influence of private clubs, demonstrating their role not only as exclusive social hubs but also as economic engines within communities across the country.
The study found that private clubs have influence at the local level, where most of their employees also reside. Clubs offer a variety of flexible employment opportunities — seasonal, part-time and full-time roles — benefiting workers who need adaptable schedules. The study reports that private clubs provided a total payroll of $17.4 billion in 2023, with $14.6 billion in wages and $2.8 billion in payroll taxes and benefits.
Compared to major corporations, the club industry’s employment numbers are impressive. For context, FedEx, UPS and Marriott employ 529,000, 500,000 and 411,000 people, respectively — figures that the club industry surpasses.
Beyond direct contributions, the study also shows that the private club industry stimulates additional economic activity through indirect and induced effects. These impacts extend to related industries such as food service, utilities, sports equipment, insurance and construction, with clubs purchasing substantial volumes of goods and services. Additionally, spending by club employees in their local communities further amplifies economic benefits, underscoring the value of clubs as “Main Street” businesses that reinforce local economies.
The total impact, in consideration of indirect and induced impact, is measured at $157 billion of revenue, $65 billion of total payroll and the creation of 1.5 million jobs across the economy.
Among U.S. regions, the South boasts the largest concentration of private clubs, driven by states like Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia. Florida alone has the highest number of clubs, contributing significantly to both the regional and national economies.
This report, managed by Professor SoJung Lee, Ph.D., of Iowa State University, and Ray Cronin, founder of Club Benchmarking, utilized data from the extensive Club Benchmarking database. The study covered operations from 2023, with data analysis conducted from November 2023 to April 2024. The project received contributions from leading institutions, including Iowa State University, Florida Atlantic University and the University of Florida.
The research and collaboration team will provide further insights at an upcoming industry webinar on Tuesday, Dec. 17, at 1 p.m.
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