To get serious about golf, you need some golf clubs, golf shoes, golf gloves, golf balls, tees, towel, a few lessons, and a tee time.

Golf clubs can be purchased used or new. If you are just starting out, I suggest you buy used golf equipment. In my opinion, the best and safest places online for used golf clubs are globalgolf.com and 2ndSwing.com or you can Google Calloway or Taylormade and search for their used golf club site. If you like getting tips, swinging clubs, and getting an idea, I recommend going to brick-and-mortar stores like Golf Galaxy, PGA Superstore, and Golfsmith, look at your used clubs, and talk to their sales staff. They will allow you to test the clubs and you will be able to putt on their practice surfaces. While new clubs and bag can cost you on average around $ 2,000, you should be able to find a good used set for $ 600 or less.

Golf shoes and gloves need to be bought new, however for the best price check out the ones on sale. Full price for shoes and gloves will run you around $ 150, but on sale you should be able to get by on $ 60.

A couple dozen low-priced golf ball brands will cost you around $ 50 and a hundred tees for around $ 8, if you don’t buy a few at the golf course for free, while the towel will cost you around $ 12.

Typical Lesson Costs: Fees average between $ 50- $ 60 for a 30-45 minute private lesson. Instructors sometimes offer hour-long sessions for $ 75 to $ 90, which is an overall better value. Instructors generally reduce fees by 15 percent or more if golfers purchase a package of lessons, which are typically offered in groups of six. Golfers can purchase a package of six 30-minute lessons for approximately $ 250 ($ 42 per session) or six-hour classes for $ 375 ($ 62.50 per session). The number of lessons is based on your current level of play and general athleticism for a beginner. Six lessons, plus time on a driving range, chipping area, and putting green should get a beginning golfer getting started.

According to a Golf Channel survey, the average cost of an 18-hole round of golf at a public golf course is $ 36, cart included. However, this can vary drastically based on location, course, time of year, etc. But there are some general rules when it comes to the financial aspect of the cost of golf.

The first rule of thumb is to make sure you know what you are getting before you book a departure time. A golf cart is generally included with the cost of an 18-hole round, but not always. Many courses also offer discounts for residents, seniors, and evening rounds. Weekends tend to be more expensive.

Private clubs are more expensive with a payable annual membership and additional fees, and range from moderate prices to six-figure initiation fees.

As you can see, you can spend as much as you want on the cost of golf. However, it is my opinion that it is within the range of the average person to enjoy the game of golf. The camaraderie, friendships, exercise, and overall enjoyment you get from a round of golf is, as they say, “priceless.” Go ahead and enjoy life and play golf or play more golf.