North Carolina’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 25 most exclusive and expensive country clubs in the Tar Heel State, each epitomizing the lavish lifestyle sought by the affluent.
25. Old North State Club
Old North State Club is a private lakeside retreat located at Badin Lake in New London, North Carolina. Nestled on a serene peninsula surrounded by water and bordered by the Uwharrie National Forest, the setting alone speaks to its unique luxury appeal. The club features a Tom Fazio-designed golf course with views of the lake from many holes, delivering a resort-like experience in a tranquil, natural environment. With an upscale clubhouse, marina, tennis facilities, and fine dining, the club feels like an exclusive getaway in the middle of nature.
Part of the gated Uwharrie Point community, Old North State Club offers privacy and seclusion that appeals to affluent members looking for an escape. The homes around the course are custom-built estates, and access is carefully limited. Because of its location and quiet reputation, the club is not widely publicized—adding to its sense of exclusivity. With lake access, elite recreational offerings, and a pristine setting, it’s considered one of the most expensive and aspirational clubs in central North Carolina.
24. MacGregor Downs Country Club
MacGregor Downs Country Club sits along the edge of Lake MacGregor in Cary, North Carolina, within one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in the Triangle area. The setting is classic, with mature trees, water features, and a distinctly traditional Scottish-inspired clubhouse. Its 18-hole championship course has long been a local favorite, and its location ensures a peaceful, luxurious atmosphere. In addition to golf, members enjoy tennis courts, a pool, dining venues, and a well-rounded calendar of social events.
Founded in 1967, MacGregor Downs is rich in history and pride. Membership often passes from one generation to the next, and the club has built a strong sense of community. Its exclusivity stems from this tight-knit environment, and the overall prestige is reinforced by its beautiful lakeside setting and top-tier service. With country club amenities and a respected reputation, MacGregor Downs delivers an aspirational lifestyle to those who gain access.
23. Carolina Golf Club
Carolina Golf Club is a private Donald Ross-designed gem just minutes from Uptown Charlotte. The layout, restored to Ross’s original design, runs through rolling terrain with strategic bunkers and firm, fast greens that reward thoughtful play. The surrounding landscape offers a green escape from city life while still being conveniently located. While focused on pure golf, the club also features a practice facility, a refined clubhouse, and understated dining options.
Though smaller in scale, Carolina Golf Club’s exclusivity lies in its quiet prestige and tight membership. Those who join value the course’s heritage, low-key clubhouse atmosphere, and quick access from central Charlotte. Because it’s not oversaturated with publicity or social events, the club offers an intimate feel—making it a hidden treasure among Charlotte’s more prominent golf circles. That low-profile appeal contributes to its high desirability and upscale reputation.
22. Treyburn Country Club
Located in the scenic northern part of Durham, Treyburn Country Club blends a Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course with the calm of Carolina woods and rolling hills. The course winds through the Treyburn residential community, giving members a sense of privacy while they enjoy lush fairways, beautiful water features, and views of the surrounding nature. The club also offers amenities like a pool, tennis courts, casual and formal dining, and a spacious clubhouse that serves as the community’s social hub.
Treyburn’s exclusivity is rooted in its design and access. As part of McConnell Golf, it shares affiliations with several elite private clubs, yet maintains its own intimate identity. Membership remains limited and carefully curated, and the environment is both family-friendly and refined. Those who value top-tier golf in a peaceful, upscale setting view Treyburn as a hidden jewel—and one that comes with a price tag to match.
21. Myers Park Country Club
Myers Park Country Club is located in the heart of Charlotte’s most prestigious neighborhood. Surrounded by historic mansions and tree-lined streets, the club itself reflects the classic elegance and tradition of old Charlotte. The Donald Ross-designed course offers members a beautifully kept parkland layout with refined Southern charm. Inside the stately clubhouse, guests experience high-end dining, event spaces, a swimming complex, and a vibrant tennis program—all contributing to a complete private club lifestyle.
This club is widely regarded as one of the top-tier private clubs in the state. Membership is by invitation only, and many members come from multi-generational families. That sense of heritage adds to its exclusivity. The club’s blend of prime location, historical prestige, and commitment to excellence creates a highly aspirational lifestyle—making it one of the most desirable and expensive memberships in North Carolina.
20. Governors Club
Governors Club is a luxurious private community and club located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. Its 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course weaves through scenic hills and forests, offering panoramic views and a quiet escape. Inside the gated community, members enjoy not just golf, but a wide range of amenities including tennis courts, multiple dining options, a fitness center, pools, and walking trails that promote an active and upscale lifestyle.
The prestige of Governors Club comes from its exclusivity and well-rounded living experience. With luxury homes, protected access, and a strong sense of community, membership is often reserved for those who live within its gates or have deep ties to the region. The environment is both refined and welcoming, with events and activities tailored to a sophisticated crowd. The upscale nature of both the community and the club itself drives its position as one of the more expensive and elite destinations in North Carolina.
19. The Cliffs at Walnut Cove
The Cliffs at Walnut Cove, just outside of Asheville, offers a secluded mountain retreat within a gated golf community. The Jack Nicklaus Signature course blends into the rolling Appalachian foothills, surrounded by forests, streams, and distant mountain views. The community features luxury estates and townhomes, as well as a massive clubhouse that feels like a private mountain lodge. Amenities include wellness centers, hiking trails, tennis courts, a pool, and organic dining options that elevate the living experience.
Membership here goes beyond golf—it’s a lifestyle commitment. The Cliffs network gives members access to several other premier clubs, but Walnut Cove is often considered the crown jewel. The privacy, scale, and natural beauty of the property draw a very affluent clientele. With wellness programs, high-end dining, and elite fitness offerings, The Cliffs at Walnut Cove remains one of the most aspirational and expensive clubs in the state.
18. Champion Hills Club
Champion Hills Club sits in the mountains of Hendersonville, North Carolina, and is built around a Tom Fazio-designed course considered one of his finest. The elevation changes, cool climate, and forested scenery make it a standout golf experience in the region. The community that surrounds the club is gated and features custom homes that blend with the natural setting, offering sweeping views and quiet luxury. The club’s amenities include a wellness center, fitness classes, tennis, dining venues, and a resort-style pool.
The club prides itself on being member-owned, which translates into a deeply invested and exclusive community. With a full-service clubhouse, social activities, and year-round events, it’s more than just a golf club—it’s a private lifestyle community. Those seeking a high-caliber mountain retreat will find Champion Hills among the most desirable, and the price of membership reflects that elevated status.
17. Linville Golf Club
Linville Golf Club, located in the high country of western North Carolina, is one of the state’s oldest and most storied private clubs. The Donald Ross-designed course dates back to the early 20th century and has been preserved in near-original form. Playing here feels like stepping back in time—fairways lined with native flora, cool mountain air, and classic architectural charm. The nearby Eseeola Lodge provides accommodations and dining, complementing the club’s traditional offerings.
Membership at Linville is notoriously difficult to attain, often passed down through generations or acquired via invitation. Guests typically stay at the lodge, which offers limited access to the course and amenities like tennis, croquet, and spa services. The blend of history, exclusivity, and mountain beauty makes it a deeply prestigious club. The privacy and limited availability elevate its cost and its status among those in the know.
16. Elk River Club
Elk River Club, located in Banner Elk, offers one of the most unique luxury club experiences in North Carolina. Home to the state’s first Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, it pairs elite-level golf with high-elevation mountain scenery. But what truly sets it apart is its private airstrip—members can fly directly into the community, where luxury homes, trout streams, and equestrian facilities await. The clubhouse also features gourmet dining, tennis courts, and a wellness center.
This is not a club you stumble upon—it’s one you seek out intentionally. Membership is strictly controlled, and the community is built for those accustomed to a very high standard of living. The blend of seclusion, amenities, and aviation convenience places Elk River among the most expensive and exclusive country clubs in the region.
15. Eagle Point Golf Club
Welcome to Eagle Point Golf Club, an exquisite golfing haven nestled in the heart of Wilmington, North Carolina. Renowned for its unparalleled beauty and championship-level design, Eagle Point offers an unforgettable golfing experience amid the picturesque landscapes of the Cape Fear region.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer seeking a challenging round or a novice looking to refine your skills, Eagle Point Golf Club beckons with its southern charm and world-class facilities, promising an unparalleled blend of nature and sport.
14. Country Club of North Carolina (Dogwood Course)
The Dogwood Course is the crown jewel of the Country Club of North Carolina in Pinehurst. Designed by Ellis Maples, it meanders through pine forests and around serene lakes, showcasing the best of the Sandhills landscape. The course is widely considered one of the finest in the Southeast, known for its strategic design and pristine conditions. The quiet setting inside a gated community ensures a peaceful, uninterrupted experience.
Membership at CCNC is exclusive and invitation-only, which reinforces the club’s prestigious reputation. The Dogwood Course is consistently ranked among the top courses in the state, drawing accomplished players and high-profile members. Those who gain access value the blend of championship golf and refined social culture. It’s an aspirational destination for those seeking top-tier golf in a truly private setting.
13. Old Chatham Golf Club
Old Chatham Golf Club is a hidden sanctuary just outside Durham and Chapel Hill, tucked into 400 acres of secluded woodland. The Rees Jones-designed course is built for purists—there are no homes on the course, just nature and beautifully maintained fairways. The experience is focused and serene, ideal for those who value the game at its most traditional. The club also includes luxurious cottages for overnight stays, a private practice facility, and a well-appointed but low-key clubhouse.
Membership is by invitation only and tightly controlled, with a small roster of elite individuals who value discretion. The clubhouse is understated yet elegant, and members enjoy access to exclusive social events, fine dining, and golf-focused lifestyle programming. It’s a place where top executives and passionate golfers come to unplug, and its exclusivity is reflected in the cost. For those who want elite golf with no distractions, Old Chatham is as good as it gets.
12. Raleigh Country Club
Raleigh Country Club is steeped in history—it was the last course designed by Donald Ross and has recently undergone a careful restoration to bring back his original vision. Nestled just outside downtown Raleigh, the course offers rolling fairways, elevated greens, and a walkable layout that showcases classic golf architecture. The setting feels miles away from the city, yet is only minutes from the heart of the Triangle.
The club is private and member-only, with access strictly limited to those who pass a selective application process. It’s part of the McConnell Golf network, which adds another layer of prestige. Recent upgrades to the course and facilities have raised its profile, and its legacy as a Ross masterpiece adds weight to the name. Membership is both a badge of honor and a significant investment.
11. Cape Fear Country Club
Cape Fear Country Club, located in Wilmington, is North Carolina’s oldest private country club, dating back to 1896. Its Donald Ross-designed course winds through grand oak trees and Spanish moss, creating a setting rich with Southern charm and tradition. The historic white clubhouse and manicured grounds make it feel like a step back into a more gracious time. Members also enjoy tennis, a swimming pool, a modern fitness center, and a full calendar of social and dining events.
The club is deeply rooted in local society, with many families having been members for generations. Membership is exclusive and selective, with a strong emphasis on tradition and decorum. Cape Fear isn’t just a golf club—it’s a cornerstone of Wilmington’s social life. Its enduring prestige and irreplaceable character ensure it remains one of the most expensive and coveted clubs in the region.
10. Biltmore Forest Country Club
Located just outside Asheville, Biltmore Forest Country Club is a refined private club with a pedigree that traces back to the Vanderbilt legacy. The Donald Ross-designed course is a rolling, parkland-style layout that blends classic design with mountain views. The club’s facilities—including a stately clubhouse, tennis complex, and elegant dining—exude timeless Southern sophistication.
Membership is by invitation and is often passed down within prominent families. The club has maintained its reputation through exclusivity, tradition, and top-tier service. It’s a Platinum Club of America, a title reserved for the most elite clubs in the country. The combination of history, privacy, and refined luxury make Biltmore Forest one of the most aspirational and expensive memberships in the Carolinas.
9. Grandfather Golf & Country Club
Nestled amidst the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains in Linville, North Carolina, Grandfather Golf and Country Club stands as a premier destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of natural beauty and world-class amenities. With its rich history dating back to 1968, this distinguished club offers a sanctuary for golf enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers alike.
Whether it’s teeing off on the meticulously manicured greens, indulging in exquisite dining experiences, or simply basking in the serene mountain vistas, Grandfather Golf and Country Club promises an unforgettable retreat in the heart of North Carolina’s scenic landscape.
8. Forest Creek Golf Club (North Course)
The North Course is the second Tom Fazio masterpiece at Forest Creek and offers a more rugged, sand-based aesthetic compared to its sister course. With bold bunkering, elevation changes, and exposed native terrain, it delivers a different flavor of championship golf—still secluded, still private, but with a touch more drama in its design. Like its counterpart, the North Course is paired with top-tier facilities, including a members-only clubhouse, on-site dining, tennis, and well-maintained practice grounds.
Having two top-tier private courses within one gated community is rare, and that dual offering elevates Forest Creek’s exclusivity even more. Members enjoy an ultra-private lifestyle, with tee times rarely needed and service tailored to a highly affluent clientele. The North Course, like the South, adds to Forest Creek’s elite status and contributes to its standing as one of the most expensive golf memberships in North Carolina.
7. Diamond Creek Golf Club
Diamond Creek Golf Club in Banner Elk is one of the most luxurious and secretive golf clubs in the state. Set high in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Tom Fazio-designed course features sweeping views, lush fairways, and meticulous conditioning that ranks among the best in the country. The surrounding landscape feels untouched and serene, adding to the club’s exclusive, retreat-like appeal. The amenities here include chef-driven dining, private cottages, guided fly fishing, and a heli-pad for member arrivals.
Membership at Diamond Creek is strictly by invitation and known to attract high-net-worth individuals seeking privacy and discretion. With a limited membership, luxurious mountain homes, and even its own private trout stream, the club blends rugged natural beauty with five-star service. For those who get the nod, it’s not just a golf club—it’s a private mountain sanctuary with a price tag to match its exclusivity.
6. Carolina Country Club
Carolina Country Club is a private, member-owned country club located in Raleigh, North Carolina. The club was established in 1910 and has a long history of providing its members with exceptional recreational and social activities.
Originally called Raleigh Country Club (not to be confused with current Raleigh Country Club) Carolina Country Club features a championship 18-hole golf course believed to be designed originally by Dermont E. Miner. We found this newspaper clipping below that shows “an expert from New York and Florida, laid out the course.”
5. Quail Hollow Club
Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte is a nationally recognized private club that regularly hosts PGA Tour events, including the Wells Fargo Championship and previously the PGA Championship. The George Cobb-designed course, refined by Tom Fazio, features a challenging layout highlighted by the famous “Green Mile” finishing holes. Its manicured fairways and impeccable greens are a hallmark of its tournament-ready condition.
With a small, invitation-only membership roster, Quail Hollow is widely regarded as the most prestigious golf club in Charlotte. The club’s social scene is discreet but influential, drawing business leaders, professional athletes, and high-profile individuals. The cost of joining reflects its premier status, and simply having access to the course is considered a mark of success. It’s not just a golf club—it’s a symbol of elite standing in North Carolina.
4. Charlotte Country Club
Charlotte Country Club is one of the oldest and most respected private clubs in the South, founded in 1910. Located in the heart of Charlotte, it features a beautifully restored Donald Ross course that has hosted national amateur championships and is widely considered among the best in the state. The club also offers exceptional amenities, including tennis, squash, dining, and one of the most elegant clubhouses in the region.
Membership is strictly by invitation and limited to a select circle of Charlotte’s most established families and professionals. There’s a strong emphasis on tradition, decorum, and multigenerational membership. Charlotte Country Club is not just a place to play golf—it’s a social institution with deep roots in the city’s history. That heritage, combined with unmatched amenities and exclusivity, makes it one of the most expensive and prestigious memberships in North Carolina.
3. Roaring Gap Club
Roaring Gap Club is a hidden mountain sanctuary perched at over 3,500 feet in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Founded in the 1920s, it features a classic Donald Ross golf course that blends perfectly into the surrounding landscape, offering cool breezes and panoramic views. The rustic clubhouse, simple yet elegant cottages, and quiet walking paths make the entire property feel like a timeless retreat.
This club is incredibly private, with membership largely passed down through generations or extended by invitation to a very select few. There’s no public advertising or open access—Roaring Gap is as exclusive as it gets. The lifestyle here is about tradition, family, and a sense of place. Its charm lies in what hasn’t changed, and that quiet prestige makes it one of the most aspirational and expensive clubs in the Carolinas.
2. Wade Hampton Golf Club
Located in Cashiers, Wade Hampton Golf Club is a secluded high-elevation retreat featuring a Tom Fazio-designed course widely considered one of the best in the country. The course layout flows naturally through valleys and forests, creating a tranquil playing experience that’s both scenic and challenging. It’s regularly ranked in the Top 100 courses nationwide and is the crown jewel of mountain golf in the Southeast. Members also enjoy a luxurious clubhouse, top-tier dining, and a handful of understated yet elegant guest cottages.
Membership is by invitation only and reserved for those who value discretion, excellence, and the quiet luxury of a private golf haven. The homes and facilities surrounding the club are understated but elegant, built to blend into the natural landscape. Wade Hampton’s reputation for elite service, immaculate conditions, and pure golf make it one of the most expensive and respected clubs in North Carolina—and beyond.
1. Old Town Club
Old Town Club in Winston-Salem is a historic and revered golf club featuring a Perry Maxwell-designed course that ranks among the best classical layouts in the nation. Adjacent to Wake Forest University, the course blends rolling terrain with strategic design, offering a refined and challenging test for serious golfers. The minimalist clubhouse and peaceful grounds reflect the club’s deep commitment to the game and tradition. Amenities include fine dining, casual gathering areas, and an intimate social calendar tailored to its close-knit membership.
Membership at Old Town is among the most exclusive in the state, with access typically granted only through invitation and longstanding social ties. The club is known for its discretion, limited membership, and culture of excellence. For those who appreciate heritage, course architecture, and true privacy, Old Town is the pinnacle. It’s not just North Carolina’s most prestigious club—it’s a national standard-bearer for what elite private golf should look like.
These clubs represent the epitome of luxury and exclusivity in North Carolina’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.