Ohio’s country club scene is a magnet for the ultra-wealthy, offering an unparalleled blend of luxury, exclusivity, and world-class amenities. From historic institutions with storied pasts to modern enclaves catering to the elite, these clubs represent the pinnacle of opulence. Below, we dive into the top 30 most exclusive and expensive country clubs in the Buckeye State, each epitomizing the lavish lifestyle sought by the affluent.
30. Toledo Country Club
Toledo Country Club is a longstanding private club located along the Maumee River. It was founded in the late 1800s and has stayed relatively low profile compared to larger national names. While it doesn’t appear often in national rankings, it remains one of the most respected clubs in northwest Ohio. Membership is limited, usually based on personal referral, and tends to stay within families or established local networks.
The club features an 18-hole course surrounded by older estates, as well as tennis courts, a large outdoor pool, and indoor and outdoor dining. There’s also a youth program, frequent themed events, and a full calendar of social activities during the summer. The course has a classic parkland layout and is known for strong maintenance. Its exclusivity is tied more to tradition and legacy than national exposure.
29. Moraine Country Club
Moraine Country Club in Dayton is quiet, private, and laser-focused on championship-level golf. It was designed by Alec “Nipper” Campbell and has hosted U.S. Amateur events, yet still manages to stay under the radar outside serious golf circles. Membership is capped and difficult to obtain unless you have an introduction from a current member. There is little online marketing and almost no media exposure, which adds to the club’s mystique.
The amenities are intentionally limited—this is a golf-first club. There’s no pool or tennis complex, and social events are low key. The course is known for firm, fast conditions and a natural, walkable design. It’s a place for members who want high-level golf in a no-distraction setting with very little outside attention.
28. Scioto Reserve Country Club
Scioto Reserve is located in Powell, just north of Columbus, and caters to upper-middle class families and professionals looking for a country club lifestyle. The club is private, with different tiers of membership that control access to golf, pool, tennis, and dining. It’s more relaxed than legacy clubs like Scioto Country Club, but membership still requires an application and approval process. Online mentions are common in local real estate promotions and community rankings.
Scioto Reserve Country Club offers an 18-hole championship golf course, multiple tennis courts, a resort-style pool, fitness facilities, and a full calendar of family events. There’s also a golf academy for juniors and a social dining setup inside the clubhouse. Members often join for the mix of amenities and family-friendly culture. It’s a modern club with a strong community feel, offering a balance of access and exclusivity that appeals to suburban professionals.
27. Kinsale Golf & Fitness Club
Kinsale Golf & Fitness Club is a large, member-only country club in Powell that focuses on both golf and wellness. It shares ownership with Scioto Reserve but maintains its own golf course, fitness center, and event programming. The club is popular with families, especially younger ones looking for a place that offers more than just golf. It’s well known in the Columbus area and appears often in lists for top family-focused clubs in the state.
Amenities include an 18-hole course, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, spa, gym, a resort-style pool, and year-round dining. There’s a heavy emphasis on fitness and events—everything from spin classes to cooking nights. While membership is easier to obtain than at legacy clubs, the pricing structure and bundled offerings make it one of the more expensive options in the region. It’s a good example of how modern clubs are evolving to meet lifestyle needs beyond the fairway.
26. New Albany Country Club
New Albany Country Club is located in one of Ohio’s wealthiest suburbs, just east of Columbus. It’s a full-service, gated community club that serves high-income residents, including executives from major companies headquartered nearby. Membership is private and primarily drawn from within the New Albany development, though non-residents can apply. It’s frequently mentioned in real estate listings and lifestyle publications focused on suburban luxury living.
The club has a 27-hole Jack Nicklaus–designed golf course, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, multiple pools, a spa, a large fitness center, and a full-service restaurant. It also offers youth sports leagues, summer camps, and holiday events, making it one of the most family-friendly clubs in Ohio. The scale of its facilities and the surrounding home values reflect its exclusivity. While it’s more lifestyle-oriented than traditional golf clubs, the overall experience is priced at the top of the market.
25. The Lakes Golf & Country Club
The Lakes is a private, member-owned club located in Westerville, a northeast suburb of Columbus. It’s known for being both highly social and well-appointed, attracting members who want strong golf along with a vibrant year-round calendar of events. New members must be approved, and there’s often a waiting list depending on category. It receives consistent praise in local publications and lifestyle magazines covering Central Ohio.
The club includes an 18-hole course, large clubhouse with multiple dining areas, fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and tennis courts. Social events are a major part of the experience—wine tastings, kids’ carnivals, holiday brunches, and member-only parties happen year-round. The course is challenging and walkable, with strong maintenance standards. The Lakes Golf & Country Club is popular with families and mid-career professionals who want top-tier amenities without the stiffness of older legacy clubs.
24. Brookside Golf & Country Club
Brookside Golf & Country Club is located in Columbus and is known for its traditional, private atmosphere and a strong golf pedigree. It’s not flashy, but it’s extremely well regarded within Ohio’s private club scene. Membership is selective and usually requires sponsorship and approval by a board. There’s very little public marketing or media exposure, which is consistent with the club’s understated culture.
The club includes a well-maintained 18-hole course, tennis courts, a pool, fitness center, and formal dining. It hosts a number of mid-size tournaments and private member events throughout the year. The clubhouse has an old-school feel, with separate areas for casual and formal use. Brookside tends to attract older members and families who prefer a quiet, consistent club experience over newer lifestyle-driven options.
23. Wedgewood Golf & Country Club
Wedgewood Golf & Country Club is a private country club located in Powell, an upscale suburb north of Columbus. It sits inside a gated residential community and offers a high-end, family-focused environment. Membership is limited, and while it’s not as hard to get into as legacy clubs, it’s still one of the more expensive options in the region. It appears frequently in real estate promotions for Powell and is well known in suburban Columbus circles.
The club features an 18-hole course, full tennis complex, pool, updated fitness center, and a modern clubhouse with multiple dining venues. Seasonal events, youth programs, and casual member gatherings happen regularly. The course runs through the Wedgewood neighborhood, giving it a quiet and private feel. It caters to members who want a polished but approachable country club lifestyle.
22. Worthington Hills Country Club
Worthington Hills is a private, member-owned club located in northwest Columbus. It has a long-standing reputation as one of the more family-friendly and community-oriented clubs in Central Ohio. Membership is limited and includes several tiers, depending on age and activity level. It’s not as visible in national media but is well respected among local golfers and club members.
The club offers an 18-hole golf course, swimming pool, multiple tennis courts, a junior golf program, and casual clubhouse dining. Social events, leagues, and family activities happen regularly, especially in the summer. It has a loyal member base, with many families staying for decades. While it’s more low-key than some newer clubs, its reputation and well-rounded amenities keep it in high demand.
21. Columbus Country Club
Columbus Country Club, founded in 1903 in Columbus, Ohio, started as a horsemen’s estate with bridle paths. It soon converted into a golf haven, debuting a nine‑hole layout by Tom Bendelow in 1907, later expanded and refined by Donald Ross in 1914 and again through the early 20th century. Today, it features a championship 18‑hole course stretching nearly 7,000 yards (par 72), celebrated for its tree‑lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and pristine playing surfaces. A major renovation completed in 2018 restored Ross’s original character—reopening sightlines, rebuilding bunkers, and improving drainage—earning praise for bringing back the course’s classic style.
The club also offers a nine‑hole Par‑3 course, eight tennis courts, a swimming pool, full practice range, and a spacious clubhouse serving social and member events. Over the years, it has hosted prominent tournaments—including the 1964 PGA Championship, the Columbus Invitationals in the late 1940s, and the Ohio State Amateur in several editions. Membership brings a traditional club experience focused on family, fitness, and community. With its blend of rich history, elite golf design, and updated amenities, Columbus Country Club remains a cornerstone of Central Ohio’s private-club scene.
20. Terrace Park Country Club
Welcome to Terrace Park Country Club, a prestigious and picturesque haven nestled in the heart of Milford, Ohio. Steeped in tradition and renowned for its timeless elegance, Terrace Park Country Club invites you to experience the epitome of upscale recreational and social offerings.
Surrounded by lush greenery and scenic landscapes, this exclusive club provides a haven for golf enthusiasts, fine diners, and those seeking a refined social atmosphere. From its meticulously manicured golf course to its exquisite dining facilities, Terrace Park Country Club embodies a rich history of community, camaraderie, and unparalleled leisure. Welcome to a place where luxury meets leisure, and every moment is an opportunity to create lasting memories.
19. Ivy Hills Country Club
Ivy Hills is located in Cincinnati’s eastern suburbs and offers a secluded, wooded setting with a private, member-owned club structure. It’s smaller than many on this list but has earned a loyal, tight-knit membership base. Membership is private and capped, with limited outside marketing. It’s not frequently mentioned in major golf publications but has a strong local reputation.
Ivy Hills Country Club includes an 18-hole course, short game area, pool, tennis courts, and a traditional-style clubhouse with both casual and formal dining options. Events are tailored toward member families and small-group gatherings rather than large public functions. Its location and privacy make it attractive to members looking for a quieter experience. Ivy Hills offers a consistent, low-profile environment with well-rounded amenities.
18. Shaker Heights Country Club
Shaker Heights Country Club is one of the most traditional private clubs in the Cleveland area. It was founded in 1913 and has a long-standing reputation for being one of the more formal and established clubs in northern Ohio. Membership is selective and typically passed along through referrals or family legacy. It’s not flashy online but holds weight among long-time residents and professionals.
The club features a Donald Ross–designed 18-hole golf course, full tennis complex, pool, upscale dining rooms, and event spaces. The clubhouse is classic in style and supports year-round social events and banquets. Golf remains a key draw, but many members join for the complete private club lifestyle. Shaker Heights remains relevant by combining historic prestige with a steady update of its facilities.
17. Sharon Golf Club
Nestled in the rolling hills of Sharon Center, Ohio, The Sharon Golf Club is a private, men-only retreat renowned for its impeccable conditioning and strategic design. Established in the mid-1960s and crafted by the legendary George Cobb—who also left his mark at Augusta National—the course stretches over 7,000 yards from the back tees with a challenging par‑72 layout that features some of Ohio’s largest greens, including a sprawling No. 18 that once measured almost 14,000 sq ft . The club maintains a deliberately low profile, capped at around 275 members to preserve its exclusive, clubby atmosphere.
The Sharon isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a testament to innovation. Frank Dobie, the club’s longtime agronomist and general manager, served an impressive 56-year tenure, during which he devised the bunker-liner in 1967 and introduced Ohio’s first double-row automatic irrigation system. The end result is a top-tier, private golf experience blending traditional design, elite conditioning, and forward-thinking course stewardship—all set in a tranquil, all-male enclave just outside Akron.
16. Wyoming Golf Club
Wyoming Golf Club is located in the historic suburb of Wyoming, just north of downtown Cincinnati. It’s a private club with a quiet, neighborhood-focused feel. Membership is mostly local and selective, with new applicants typically sponsored by current members. It rarely appears in broader media but is well known among established families in the area.
The club includes a scenic 18-hole course with rolling hills and mature trees, as well as tennis courts, a pool, and a modest but elegant clubhouse. Dining and social events cater to families and small gatherings. It’s less showy than many others on this list, but exclusivity comes from its tight community and consistent member base. Wyoming Golf Club maintains a steady presence without needing to advertise.
15. Beechmont Country Club
Beechmont Country Club is located in the suburb of Orange, just east of Cleveland. It’s a private, member-owned club known for its Jewish heritage and long-standing tradition in the Cleveland elite social scene. Membership is by invitation and typically includes family referrals or endorsements. Though it doesn’t show up in national rankings often, it’s frequently referenced in local news and Cleveland-area real estate listings.
The club features an 18-hole championship course, 10 tennis courts, a large pool, fitness center, and both casual and formal dining. Beechmont also has one of the more active social calendars in the region, with events ranging from golf tournaments to charity dinners. Its clubhouse is spacious and has been updated over time. While the club remains deeply rooted in tradition, it has continued to evolve to meet modern expectations.
14. Pepper Pike Club
Nestled within the serene suburbs of Pepper Pike, Ohio, the Pepper Pike Club stands as a distinguished enclave of leisure and refinement. This exclusive haven offers residents and guests an idyllic escape from the bustle of city life, combining picturesque landscapes with world-class amenities.
With a rich history of community and camaraderie, the Pepper Pike Club is an oasis where luxury meets a warm, welcoming spirit, providing an exceptional experience for those seeking relaxation, recreation, and connection in the heart of Pepper Pike.
13. Firestone Country Club
Located in Akron, Firestone Country Club is perhaps Ohio’s most nationally known club due to its long history with PGA Tour events. It operates as a private club under the Invited (formerly ClubCorp) umbrella, though it allows limited outside access for special events. There are three full 18-hole courses on property, including the famous South Course, which has hosted the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational and other major tournaments. Despite the occasional public access, the top-tier memberships are expensive and exclusive.
Amenities include a massive clubhouse, golf academy, fine dining, lodging, and a full range of practice facilities. Firestone is focused heavily on golf, and its national visibility gives it a different feel compared to more socially driven clubs. Members gain access to a wide range of national reciprocal privileges through Invited. While less private than others, its reputation and tournament legacy elevate it to the top tier.
12. Hyde Park Golf & Country Club
Welcome to Hyde Park Golf and Country Club, a premier destination for golf enthusiasts and those seeking an unparalleled country club experience in Cincinnati, Ohio. Nestled in the heart of the city, Hyde Park offers a sanctuary of refined leisure and sporting elegance. Our meticulously designed 18-hole championship golf course, surrounded by lush landscapes and scenic views, provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Beyond the fairways, members enjoy an array of upscale amenities, including exquisite dining options, state-of-the-art fitness facilities, and a vibrant social calendar. At Hyde Park Golf and Country Club, we invite you to indulge in a lifestyle of luxury, camaraderie, and sporting excellence, creating lasting memories on and off the course.
11. The Kirtland Country Club
Nestled in the charming city of Willoughby, Ohio, The Kirtland Country Club stands as a timeless sanctuary of elegance and recreation. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1921, this exclusive club has become a cherished institution in the local community. Boasting a picturesque setting, meticulously manicured fairways, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, The Kirtland Country Club is a haven for golf enthusiasts, social gatherings, and fine dining.
Whether you’re seeking a round of golf on their pristine course, a refined dining experience, or a venue for special events, The Kirtland Country Club offers a quintessential blend of tradition and modern amenities that make it a treasured destination in Willoughby, Ohio.
10. Sand Ridge Golf Club
Sand Ridge is located in Mayfield, a suburb east of Cleveland, and is known for its quiet setting and private atmosphere. It merged with The Mayfield Country Club under the Mayfield Sand Ridge Club banner, creating a two-course membership with limited access. It’s designed for golfers who want a low-profile, golf-first experience. Membership is private, invitation-only, and capped to ensure limited play volume.
The club has two 18-hole courses, indoor golf simulators, fitness space, and modern dining facilities. It lacks traditional country club elements like pools or tennis, reinforcing its focus on golf and quiet exclusivity. Sand Ridge Golf Club is rarely mentioned in broader lifestyle coverage, but it’s considered a hidden gem among serious players in the Cleveland area. Members are typically seasoned golfers who value course quality over social scene.
9. The Country Club
Located in Pepper Pike, just outside Cleveland, The Country Club is one of the oldest and most prestigious clubs in the state. It was founded in the late 1800s and is known for being extremely private, with multi-generational family memberships and little outside promotion. Access is strictly controlled, and new members are typically invited after multiple recommendations and board approval. The club doesn’t advertise and has almost no online presence by design.
Facilities include a classic 18-hole Donald Ross course, clay tennis courts, a swimming complex, and formal clubhouse dining. The club also offers skeet shooting and other traditional sporting activities. The clubhouse has a historic feel and is used for upscale dinners, weddings, and private events. The Country Club prioritizes tradition and member discretion, making it one of Ohio’s most exclusive places to belong.
8. Canterbury Golf Club
Canterbury Golf Club is located in Beachwood, another upscale suburb of Cleveland, and is consistently ranked among Ohio’s best private clubs. It has hosted numerous national tournaments, including PGA Championships and U.S. Amateur events. Membership is private and selective, often requiring sponsorship and vetting from a board. It maintains a strong reputation in both golf circles and the Cleveland social scene.
The club offers a championship 18-hole course, full practice facilities, tennis courts, pool, and a large clubhouse. The clubhouse includes formal dining areas, locker rooms, and member lounges. While the golf is a major draw, Canterbury also supports a full schedule of member events and gatherings throughout the year. Its combination of history, course quality, and reputation makes it a standout club in the state.
7. Double Eagle Golf Club
Welcome to the Double Eagle Golf Club, a premier destination for golf enthusiasts nestled in the picturesque landscape of Galena, Ohio. With its impeccable greens, stunning fairways, and a reputation that speaks of excellence, Double Eagle stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of natural beauty and the artistry of golf course design.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer seeking a challenging round or a leisurely player looking to enjoy the serene surroundings, Double Eagle Golf Club promises an unforgettable experience that transcends the ordinary. Join us as we explore a golfing haven where precision meets passion amidst the charming backdrop of Galena’s rolling hills and tranquil vistas.
6. Inverness Club
Inverness Club is located in Toledo and is one of Ohio’s most prestigious golf clubs. It has hosted multiple major tournaments, including U.S. Opens and the Solheim Cup, giving it national attention. Despite the exposure, it remains a private club with a controlled membership process. Joining requires recommendations, a waiting list, and approval from the board.
The club features a championship Donald Ross–designed course, modern practice facilities, and a recently renovated clubhouse. Amenities include upscale dining, locker rooms, event space, and social events tied to major tournaments. Inverness is highly regarded among both amateur and professional players. It offers fewer family-focused amenities than other clubs, but it stands out for its historic significance and top-level course access.
5. Camargo Club
Camargo Club is located in the Indian Hill area of Cincinnati, one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in the state. It’s a small, very private club known for being quiet and understated. Membership is strictly by invitation, with many members coming from legacy families or long-standing professional networks. It receives almost no media attention by design, and there is little to no advertising or online footprint.
Beyond the fairways, Camargo Club provides a refined social atmosphere, exceptional dining options, and a range of recreational amenities that cater to the diverse interests of its members. Join us at Camargo Club, where a legacy of excellence and camaraderie awaits those seeking a truly exceptional private club experience in Cincinnati.
4. Scioto Country Club
Scioto Country Club is based in Upper Arlington, a suburb of Columbus, and is one of the most storied clubs in the country. Jack Nicklaus learned the game here, and the club has hosted several national championships. It is extremely private and highly respected, with a formal application and vetting process. Membership is often generational or corporate, and public access is non-existent.
The club offers an elite-level Donald Ross course, a large clubhouse with multiple dining rooms, tennis courts, a pool complex, and fitness facilities. Events include men’s and women’s leagues, junior golf, and formal dinners. Scioto’s reputation as a top-tier golf club is matched by its full-service amenities and legacy. It remains one of the few clubs in the Midwest with both national prestige and tight local control.
3. Cincinnati Country Club
Nestled in the heart of Cincinnati, Ohio, the Cincinnati Country Club stands as an emblem of timeless elegance and sporting tradition. Established in 1895, this prestigious club has woven itself into the fabric of the local community, offering a sanctuary of refined leisure and camaraderie. Boasting a distinguished history, the Cincinnati Country Club is renowned for its impeccable golf courses, world-class amenities, and commitment to providing an exclusive and welcoming environment for its members.
With its lush landscapes and a commitment to excellence, the club invites enthusiasts of both golf and social fellowship to experience a unique blend of sophistication and warmth in the Queen City.
2. The Golf Club
The Golf Club is located just outside Columbus and is known as one of the most private, golf-only clubs in the U.S. Designed by Pete Dye, it was created for serious golfers who want a pure experience without distractions. Membership is invitation-only and capped at a very low number, with zero public access. There is no official website, no events calendar, and very little media coverage.
The amenities are minimal by design—an 18-hole course, a quiet clubhouse, and a few practice areas. There are no pools, tennis courts, or family programming. The culture is focused entirely on golf, with few frills and no marketing. For members, the draw is total privacy and the ability to play in solitude on one of the state’s most revered layouts.
1. Muirfield Village Golf Club
Muirfield Village Golf Club, located in Dublin, is Ohio’s most exclusive and nationally recognized private golf club. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, it serves as the annual home of the PGA Tour’s Memorial Tournament. Membership is tightly controlled and by invitation only, with access often limited to executives, public figures, and high-net-worth families. Its visibility on national television adds to its prestige, but the member areas remain off-limits to the public.
The club includes a world-class 18-hole course, an expansive clubhouse, private dining, practice facilities, and gated residential access. While the tournament is a major attraction, members enjoy access to the grounds year-round, along with exclusive events and private services. Muirfield Village Golf Club balances national spotlight with a truly elite, tightly managed member experience. It is widely viewed as the pinnacle of country club membership in Ohio.
These clubs represent the epitome of luxury and exclusivity in Ohio’s country club scene. Each offers a unique blend of world-class golf, opulent amenities, and a commitment to privacy, catering to the elite who seek the finest in leisure and lifestyle.