Private Golf Clubs; How much does the average private golf club cost to join?

QUESTION: Some of my friends belong to private golf clubs and I have become interested in them. Is the price of membership worth the benefits you receive from belonging to a private club? A friend of mind told me that in addition to his dues he also has to spend a certain amount on food and dining each year (approx 10k). I know that private clubs have a reputation as being very selective about who they allow into the clubs. What has been your experience with private golf clubs? ANSWER:

Answer by Solomon Grundy
I don't have any experience with private clubs in the sense of belonging to one. I've played at a number of private clubs and it really depends on the location of the club. I know a club in the area I live in that it costs 150 bucks a month for dues(not sure of the initial membership fee). I do know that there are different membership categories that can reduce the amount of your fee. I live in a town of 130,000 people. I've seen membership fees at clubs from 35,000 to over 600,000 bucks. I can tell you that 600,000 dollar fee was at a club in the Hamptons. Membership can be included in a residential purchase within the club community. Yes they have a reputation for being selective about membership(most will say membership is by invitation). Most make social and business contacts at these clubs so they will say it's worth the investment.