why is golf club membership so expensive

Ive have only recently this year took up golf (which I enjoy a lot) and been playing different courses.so decided I would join a club for nxt year. I looked at clubs in my area cleveland and couldnt believe how much membership for year is ranged from £600-£1200.why is it so expensive? Surely I would think that would put a lot people off joining clubs.and for new players just starting out this would put u off too..clubs should be trying to get newbmembers in and playing at decent affordable prices I would of thought. After seeing the prices I am now in two minds to join one club or just keep doing what I do n play different course and pay the green fee.if anyone knows a club that has offers on for new members ib cleveland area I would b gratefull

Thanks Craig

Well I guess first of all you have to say what you consider to be acceptable.

Many courses work on the principle that they need enough money from membership to continue to function (ie that they are not making profit), so all the income goes back into the course by employment of the staff, and reinvesting to keep the course running and looking presentable enough to play.

If less money is brought in, then less work can be done on the course, which leads to members getting upset about the quality and leaving, which results in a very quick downward spiral.

If you play often, then membership (even at the prices you quote) makes it very affordable to play, and would greatly reduce your outgoing if your someone that is playing once/twice a week. The more the cost goes up the more likely the course is better maintained

Its a good course Teesside. Good mix of challenging holes and a few where its easy to get some points back. Had plenty of drainage work done over the last few years as well, so you can see they are looking for continuous improvement.

In terms of membership costs, its £550 for me at Blackwell in Darlington which isn't too bad. What you'll find is most places will cost you per about the same as 2 weekend rounds. If though like a lot of members you want to play twice a week or more you'll be quids in.