HEATHROW, FL – Golf instructors across the U.S. are enjoying notable revenue gains through the first half of the 2025 season, according to a recent member survey conducted by Proponent Group. The findings suggest an upward move in overall lesson income along with continued business confidence for coaches, across a mix of facility types and employment arrangements.
“More than half of our respondents reported an increase in revenue over the equivalent period last year, and over half expect that trend to continue through the second half of 2025,” said Lorin Anderson, President of Proponent Group. “This is a strong signal that instructional businesses are at least very stable and in many cases are growing.”
According to the survey, 53 percent of respondents are employed directly by a facility, while 27 percent are working as independent contractors and another 20 percent identify as owners of academies or facilities. Private clubs continue to dominate as the workplace of choice, with 43 percent of respondents based there. Public courses (27 percent) and indoor facilities (13 percent) round out the top three.
When asked how their instruction revenues for the first half of 2025 compared to the first half of 2024, 65 percent reported year-over-year growth, with 22 percent noting increases of more than 15 percent. Only 15 percent of respondents saw any kind of decline. Looking ahead, 51 percent expect revenues to increase in the second half of 2025, while just 13 percent expect a drop.
Revenue growth appears to be coming from several sources. Adult private lessons were the strongest performer, with 54 percent of coaches reporting an increase over last year. Junior private lessons also showed momentum, with 44 percent noting growth. While programs like summer camps, golf schools, and corporate outings remain a smaller part of many businesses, they still contributed to the uptick for those who offer them.
Interestingly, most coaches haven’t raised their rates. Fifty-six percent of respondents reported no change in their adult hourly lesson rates from last year, while 44 percent reported some level of increase. None reported lowering their rates.
The survey also explored instructor satisfaction and career outlook. A full 81 percent of respondents either “love where they’re at” or are “very happy” while keeping an eye on new opportunities. Only 5 percent said they were actively looking to exit their current situation.
About Proponent Group
Proponent Group is the only organization solely focused on helping golf’s dedicated, full-time instructors grow their businesses and build their careers. Founded in 2007, Proponent Group recognizes that even accomplished teaching professionals need a unique array of professional services to build their teaching brand, create job security and grow compensation. For more information about how Proponent Group has benefited more than 1,400 instructors worldwide, visit proponent-group.com.