South Florida Living
South Florida Golf Communities
Year-round golf in a world-class setting. South Florida is one of the premier golf destinations in the US — here's how to navigate the communities, memberships, and costs.
Equal Housing Opportunity. All golf communities in South Florida are subject to fair housing laws. All qualified buyers are equally eligible to purchase in any community. Membership in a private club is a separate transaction from real estate purchase.
Why South Florida for Golf
South Florida's flat terrain, mild winter climate, and extensive golf course development make it one of the most golf-dense regions in the world. The Palm Beach County area alone has over 150 golf courses, from public daily-fee courses to ultra-exclusive private clubs. Year-round playability (no winter closure) is a major draw for relocators from northern states.
150+
Golf courses in Palm Beach County
365
Days of potential golf weather
PGA
National — home of major events
TPC
Courses available to homeowners
Premier Golf Communities
Palm Beach Gardens — PGA National Resort
Palm Beach County
PGA National is among the most recognized golf resort communities in the US, home of the Honda Classic (PGA Tour). Champions Course is the tournament track. Homes on golf course from $600K to $3M+. Multiple membership tiers available. Not all homes include automatic club membership.
Boca Raton — Bocaire CC / St. Andrews CC / Woodfield CC
Palm Beach County
Boca Raton has an extraordinary concentration of private golf clubs. Many require mandatory membership purchase with the home. Initiation fees range from $30,000–$200,000+. Monthly dues $500–$2,000+. Gated communities with round-the-clock security.
Boynton Beach — Mizner Country Club / Indian Spring
Palm Beach County
Strong mid-market golf communities serving active adult and all-age markets. 36-hole layouts, dining, tennis, and fitness. More accessible membership pricing than Boca's elite clubs.
Weston — The Ridges / Weston Hills CC
Broward County
Weston's master-planned design incorporates golf courses throughout the city. Weston Hills Country Club provides community golf with family-friendly programming. Good access to Broward's top-rated schools.
Wellington — Equestrian & Golf Communities
Palm Beach County
Wellington is globally famous for equestrian sport but also has quality golf in planned communities. Unique combination of equestrian estate and golf community living available.
Understanding Mandatory vs. Optional Memberships
This is one of the most important distinctions in golf community purchasing. Always clarify before making an offer:
Mandatory Membership
Purchasing the home automatically requires joining the club and paying initiation fees ($15,000–$200,000+) plus monthly dues. Non-negotiable. Factor this into your total cost.
Optional Membership
You can purchase the home without joining the club. Membership is available but not required. More flexibility; golf is available à la carte or via guest fees.
Developer Mandatory
Some new construction communities require membership during the developer's marketing period. Once sold out, policy may change. Clarify current requirements.
Equity Membership
Your initiation fee buys an equity stake in the club, potentially recoverable (partially) upon resignation. Read the club's resignation policy carefully.
Find Your Golf Community
Jacob Edri helps buyers navigate mandatory memberships, initiation fee structures, and course quality across South Florida's golf communities.