Since 2001, the US has also lost 20% of its movie theaters and nearly 33% of its bowling alleys
Golf courses, bars, and nightclubs are declining across America, creating a shortage of leisure spaces as the population grows and demand for entertainment increases, according to Bloomberg.
Over the past two decades, the country has lost 2,000 golf courses and 7,000 bars and nightclubs, while Americans own 1.3 million fewer boats. Since 2001, the US has also lost 20% of its movie theaters and nearly 33% of its bowling alleys.
Meanwhile, America’s population has surged by 20% since 2000, adding 61 million residents and intensifying demand for recreational spaces, driving up leisure costs.
From 2019 to 2025:
- The average price of a top 100 North American concert tour ticket reached $134.
- Coastal vacation rentals jumped 38% to $413 per night.
- Median country club initiation fees doubled to $51,500, and waiting lists have also gotten longer.
As leisure opportunities become harder to find and more expensive, the social toll is growing. The US ranked 23rd in the 2026 global happiness rankings, down from 13th a decade earlier.
Meanwhile, Gen Z is undeterred and eager for experiences. In a 2026 Bank of America survey, over 90% of the youngsters interviewed said they plan to travel over the summer, attend concerts, sporting events, and festivals, as they did in 2025.