Why Simulator Golf Is More Than a Trend
January 10, 2026 – Erik Holm
Golf is changing fast. Not just in how people play but in where they choose to play. The latest research from the National Golf Foundation (NGF) shows that golf simulators are not some niche add-on. They’re part of a real shift in how golfers and non-golfers engage with the game.
A much bigger golf market than you think
When you include all ways people play golf — outdoor rounds and off-course formats like simulators — the total US golf participant pool hit a record 47.2 million in 2024. Source: NGF
That’s not just people walking 18 holes. It’s driving ranges, entertainment golf spaces and indoors on simulators.
And here’s the important part for facility owners: simulators are part of that growth, not outside it.
Simulator use has more than doubled
From the NGF report:
- The total number of simulator and screen golf users rose from 3.8 million in 2015 to 8.1 million in 2024
- That’s more than double the users in less than a decade.
This shows real, sustained expansion. It’s not a temporary fad driven by one season or one tech release. It’s a broad adoption pattern that reflects how people want to golf today.
Half of simulator users don’t play traditional golf
One of the most striking insights from NGF’s research: 51% of simulator users did not play golf on course in the last year.
That means simulators are pulling in a whole group that golf courses often miss. These are people curious about golf but not yet committing to outdoor play. They may come for practice, for fun, for entertainment, or to learn the game. For facilities, that’s a big opportunity:
- More first-time golf customers
- Higher reach in local communities
- Paths to ongoing engagement and future outdoor play
Engagement and retention look strong
Growth means nothing if people don’t come back. NGF’s data shows that about three out of four simulator users say they’re likely to return to play again.
That kind of stickiness matters for business planning. People who return are more likely to spend on food, drinks, lessons, retail, and more time at your facility.
Simulators support your core business
Some owners worry that simulators will distract from outdoor play. The data paints a different picture. Indoor formats don’t replace traditional golf. They extend it. They attract people on rainy days. They keep golfers engaged year-round. And they introduce new players who may eventually take up outdoor golf.