Pickleball Cup’s Demographic

Abstract: Pickleball continues to surge in popularity, holding its title as North America’s fastest-growing sport for the third consecutive year. As of 2023, nearly 48.3 million U.S. adults—about 19% of the population—have played pickleball in the past year, reflecting a 35% increase from 2022. The sport’s accessibility and affordability attract a diverse audience, with notable growth among younger players, including 19% of Gen Z and 15% of Millennials. While traditionally popular among older adults, many players come from affluent backgrounds, with household incomes ranging from $75,000 to over $150,000, particularly those in private clubs or tournaments. Reports from Pickleball Union, World Metrics, and Gitnux highlight the sport’s growing appeal across economic demographics, reinforcing its expanding influence in the global market.

Pickleball Cup Celebrates the Growth of the Global Market

• Fastest-growing sport in North America for the third consecutive year
• Pickleball has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, solidifying its position as one of North America’s fastest-growing sports. As of 2023, approximately 48.3 million American adults—nearly 19% of the U.S. adult population—have played pickleball at least once in the past 12 months, marking a 35% increase from August 2022.
• Internationally, pickleball’s popularity is also on the rise. In Canada, a January 2025 survey by Pickleball Canada found that 1.54 million Canadians participate in the sport, a 57% increase from 2022. In Australia, the sport is rapidly gaining traction, with over 92,000 Australians having played pickleball in the year leading up to June 2024. In India, over 50,000 people played pickleball between March 2023 and September 2024, with more than 500 courts across the country.

Diverse Audience:

• Pickleball’s accessibility and appeal across various demographics contribute to its widespread popularity. While the sport has traditionally been associated with older adults, recent data indicates a shift toward younger players. Approximately 19% of U.S. Gen Z online adults and 15% of Millennials are already playing pickleball, compared to 12% of Gen X and 7% of Boomers.
• Pickleball’s accessibility makes it suitable for all demographics
• Low-cost sport with minimal equipment required, making it highly accessible

Average Income:

• Average Household Income: The studies below suggest the average household income
  of pickleball players is between $75,000 and $100,000+.
• Affluent Demographic: A significant portion of pickleball players come from
  upper-middle-class and affluent backgrounds, with a notable percentage earning $100,000
  or more annually.
• Age Factor: Since a large portion of players are 50+, many are retired or nearing
  retirement with higher disposable incomes. However, the sport is rapidly growing among
  younger demographics, including professionals with solid earning potential.
• Club & Private Facility Players: Players who participate in private clubs or tournaments
  tend to have an even higher income, often exceeding $150,000 in household earnings.

Source:

• Pickleball Union Report (2023): Indicates an average annual income of approximately $75,000 for pickleball players, with
  core players (those who play more regularly) earning around $85,000. pickleballunion.com
• World Metrics Report (2024): Reports an average yearly household income of $93,000 among pickleball players.
  worldmetrics.org
• Gitnux Market Data Report (2024): Presents a higher estimate, stating that the average household income of pickleball
  players is $125,000. gitnux.org