Summary of Membership at Augusta National Golf Club
- Membership Costs: Understand initiation fees and monthly dues.
- Application Process: Learn about the invitation-only membership.
- Notable Members: Discover who the members are and their backgrounds.
Augusta National Membership Costs
Augusta National Golf Club boasts a membership comprised of influential individuals from the business, political, and sports sectors. To join this prestigious club, members pay an initiation fee as well as annual dues.
In addition, there are costs related to accommodations, such as options in the clubhouse or one of the ten cabins on the grounds, as well as dining expenses. However, thanks to The Masters Tournament and associated merchandising, the club maintains lower membership fees compared to other exclusive golf clubs.
Here are some key financial figures:
- The initiation fee for Augusta National is estimated to be between $20,000 and $40,000.
- Monthly dues are believed to be less than $300, totaling less than $4,000 per year.
A 2009 Golf World magazine article revealed that the initiation fee is in “the low five-figures,” suggesting it could be under $50,000 and possibly even below $25,000, significantly less than many other top golf clubs in the U.S.
Monthly dues are reported to be around $250, translating to approximately $3,000 annually, while lodging fees hover just over $100 per night. Members receive a bill once a year covering dues and services.
Applying for Augusta National Membership
In contrast to typical membership applications, joining Augusta National is an exclusive invitation-only process. Making inquiries or expressing interest in membership can lead to removal from consideration.
Membership spots are usually filled when a current member passes away, though resignations and rare removals can provide openings. The club maintains a list of potential members recommended by current members, which is referenced when a position opens.
Prospective members often remain unaware of their consideration until receiving an invitation in the mail.
Who Are the Members at Augusta National?
The membership at Augusta National is predominantly composed of affluent individuals connected within influential circles. While many members are prominent figures, some hold lesser-known family legacies.
The club does not publicly disclose its members, yet many names circulate through media reports. For example, all the individuals associated with The Masters Tournament don a green jacket during event play.
Known members include:
- Jack Nicklaus (Arnold Palmer was also a member until his passing in 2016).
- Billionaires Warren Buffet and Bill Gates, noted for their friendly competition on the course.
- Business leaders such as T. Boone Pickens and Jack Welch.
- Prominent football figures including Lou Holtz and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.
- Media pioneer Ron Townsend, the first African-American member.
- Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Darla Moore, the first female members in 2012.
- Political figures like former U.S. Senator Sam Nunn.
Overall, Augusta National membership skews towards a wealthy demographic, with a notable age profile. Beyond golf legends, there are few members from the sport, although some, such as John Harris, are included.
Despite efforts by major media to compile comprehensive lists of Augusta National members, the club remains private about its membership roster.
