From the cover
Northwest Austin country clubs evolve
The local impact
A larger trend
and Regulation ling, though representatives for the club declined to comment. Renovations are funded through member assessments, with members helping shape the scope of projects. The largest project is underway at Great Hills Country Club, where a $22.3 million multiphase renovation includes a full course redesign, clubhouse upgrades, including a new grab-and-go cafe, and replacement of a 50-year-old irriga- tion system. “Personal service is still the staple of private membership. That will never change. But every- thing around it is evolving,” Gist said. Redesigned greens, nearly twice their original size, will expand the number of playable pin locations from two or three to as many as 10 to 12.
In Northwest Austin, that national shift is driving millions in local investments. At Twin Creeks Country Club in Cedar Park, a multiyear renovation completed in early 2025 added updated dining and lounge areas, a redesigned patio, and an 8,000-square-foot tness center. River Place Country Club has also invested in racquet sports and is planning additional club- house upgrades for 2026. Both clubs are operated by Arcis Golf, which described the updates in a news release as part of a strategy to position its properties as “lifestyle hubs.” Austin Country Club has a $500,000 terrace din- ing room and bar renovation planned for fall 2026, according to a Texas Department of Licensing
Private clubs in Austin are shifting into full- service lifestyle hubs, driven by demand for wellness amenities, family programming and social experiences. During the COVID-19 pandemic, social distancing measures sparked increased interest in outdoor private amenities, including golf and club memberships, Gist said. “The demographics for country clubs are getting younger and younger, and COVID[-19] is the real reason for that,” Gist said. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show membership costs have nearly doubled since 2005, with more than half of that increase occurring since 2020. Sports like pickleball are also reshaping how clubs allocate space and programming, while the average member skews younger than a generation ago, Gist said.
Country clubs across Northwest Austin
Country clubs across Northwest Austin are investing in renovations and new amenities, re ecting a broader shift toward lifestyle-focused membership experiences.
Country club membership costs
130
183
Using 2005 as a baseline of 100, data shows golf course and country club membership dues and fees have increased about 92%.
45
Twin Creeks Country Club
1
Great Hills Country Club
200
192.03
LAKE TRAVIS
620
A new grab-and-go cafe at Great Hills Country Club is part of a $22.3 million renovation.
125 150 175 100 0
River Place Country Club
UT Golf Club
100
71
620
Austin Country Club
2005 2010 2015 2020 2025
COLORADO RIVER
Year (in December)
360
Austin
SOURCE: U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS COMMUNITY IMPACT
MAP NOT TO SCALE N
1
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