How Much Does an Echo Lake Country Club Membership Cost?

Last Updated on February 22, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Echo Lake Country Club is one of the most prestigious country clubs in the state, known for its championship golf courses, elegant dining facilities, and luxurious amenities.

But joining this exclusive club comes at a price. Here’s a detailed look at what’s involved in becoming a member of Echo Lake Country Club.

How Much Does an Echo Lake Country Club Membership Cost?

In total, Echo Lake membership costs can range from the low five figures into the six figures for initiation fees, with monthly dues ranging from a few hundred dollars up to over $1,000 depending on membership type and family size. However, members gain access to outstanding amenities at this prestigious club.

The initiation fees, monthly dues, and other costs for joining Echo Lake Country Club can vary widely depending on the type of membership, number of family members, and other factors. Here is a closer look at the cost range:

Initiation Fees

For full Golf memberships, initiation fees range from a minimum of $70,000 up to $100,000 or more. The average initiation fee is approximately $85,000.

Sports membership initiation starts at around $30,000, with top fees reaching $50,000 for this category. The average is $40,000.

Social membership initiation has a lower range of $10,000 to $20,000, with most applicants paying $15,000.

Initiation Fees

• Full Golf: $70,000 – $100,000
• Sports: $30,000 – $50,000
• Social: $10,000 – $20,000
• Junior: $5,000 – $10,000 (non-refundable)
• Corporate: Based on designated members
• National: $7,500 one-time fee

Monthly Dues

Full golf membership dues span from $850 per month on the low end up to $1,200 monthly at the top tier, with the average at $1,025.

Sports membership dues scale from a minimum of $450 per month to top out around $650, with most members paying approximately $550 monthly.

The range for social membership dues is $250 to $350 per month, with the average about $300.

Junior and Corporate membership dues are based on a percentage of the Full Golf rates. National dues are a flat rate.

Monthly Dues

• Full Golf: $850 – $1,200
• Sports: $450 – $650
• Social: $250 – $350
• Junior: 50% of Full dues
• Corporate: Based on designated members
• National: $100 monthly

Additional Fees

Many other fees can add to the overall cost at Echo Lake. Cart fees for golf run $20 per person per round. Guest fees are a minimum of $100 per guest but can go much higher depending on the use of facilities.

You might also like our articles about the cost of membership at other renowned golf and tennis clubs like the Butterfield Country Club, Mar-a-Lago, or Dedham Country Club.

Monthly minimum spending at the club restaurants starts at $150 and can go up to $500 or more depending on membership level. Other a la carte fees apply for lockers, bag storage, lessons, etc.

Additional Fees

• Food & Beverage Minimum: $150 – $500/month
• Cart Fees: $20 per round
• Guest Fees: $100+ per day
• Lockers, Bag Storage: $50+ per month
• Lessons, Instruction: $100+ per hour

Annual Fee Increases

• Most categories: 3-5% per year

As you can see, joining Echo Lake requires a serious financial investment, ranging from the mid-five figures up to six figures for Full Golf memberships. But members gain access to outstanding amenities and a network of high-profile peers.

Country Club Magazine notes that Echo Lake Country Club’s initiation fee ranges from $50,000 to $100,000, while monthly dues are estimated to be between $1,000 and $2,000. Additional fees include $50 per round for carts, $250 per year for lockers, $100 per year for dining, and $50 per round for caddies.

Membership Types at Echo Lake Country Club

Echo Lake offers several membership categories to meet the needs of different lifestyles and budgets:

• Full Golf Membership – This premier membership includes unlimited golf, full use of the clubhouse, dining and sports facilities, access to member-only events, and voting privileges. It requires the highest initiation fee and monthly dues.
• Sports Membership – For non-golfers who still want full access to the tennis courts, pools, fitness center and other sports amenities. Lower fees than Full membership.
• Social Membership – Grants dining privileges and access to social events and some club facilities. More affordable option without golf.
• Junior Membership – Discounted fees for members under age 40. Full privileges convert to Full membership later.
• Corporate Membership – Companies can enroll several employee members under one membership. Fees based on number of designated members.
• National Membership – For those who live far from the club but want access when visiting the area. Lower fees with limited privileges.

All members pay one-time initiation fees and monthly dues. The specific costs range widely, depending on membership type, number of enrolled family members, and other factors.

Amenities and Benefits

In return for the substantial membership fees, Echo Lake members enjoy world-class facilities and service, including:

• Two Championship 18-hole Golf Courses – Regularly ranked among the best in the region. Impeccably maintained Bermuda greens and lush fairways. Full practice facility. Caddies available.
• Clubhouse – 50,000 sq. foot Mediterranean-style clubhouse. Fine and casual dining, bars, lounges, ballrooms, and private meeting rooms.
• Pools – Resort-style pool complex and kids pool for summer fun and relaxation. Cabanas and food & beverage service.
• Tennis – 10 Har-Tru clay courts, 7 hard courts. USPTA-certified pros for lessons. Round robins and clinics.
• Fitness Center – Extensive strength and cardio equipment, exercise classes, spa, salon, and childcare.
• Family Activities – Year-round kid’s programs, camps, recreation and childcare. Holiday events and junior golf development.
• Social Events – Elegant parties, dining events, wine tastings, and live entertainment. Busy social calendar.
• Golf Pro Shop – The latest equipment and fashions. Club fitting, repair, and instruction.
• Member Discounts – Reduced prices at the clubhouse restaurants, bars, golf shop, and for lessons.

For avid golfers, the two challenging championship courses alone justify Echo Lake’s substantial dues and fees. The busy activity calendar, elegant facilities, and family-friendly amenities make this an attractive choice as a home club for those who can afford it.

Comparing Echo Lake Country Club Value

How does the cost of joining Echo Lake compare to other high-end clubs? Here are some key points:

• Initiation fees at Echo Lake are typical and competitive for a club of this caliber in the region. Other top-tier clubs charge initiation fees from $75,000 to over $150,000.
• Monthly dues are also in line with similar clubs that offer outstanding golf, dining, and amenities. Most comparable clubs charge over $1,000 per month for a full family membership.
• Echo Lake offers lower fees than many big city clubs. Initiation can be double in major metro areas.
• For non-golf Social and Sports memberships, Echo Lake represents good value compared to many other clubs. Dues run 40-60% lower than Full Golf rates.

Overall, Echo Lake provides a first-class country club experience with membership costs comparable to other exclusive clubs. It’s a significant investment, but competitive for the high level of services, facilities and networking provided.

Applying for Membership

Becoming a member of Echo Lake Country Club involves an application process:

• Applications are considered year-round, but the club caps total memberships based on capacity.
• Candidates are interviewed and must have membership references from current Echo Lake members.
• All new members must be approved by the Membership Committee and the Board of Directors.
• Applicants should have good financial standing and align with the club’s family values.
• The application itself requires detailed personal, professional, and financial background information.
• A credit check is typically required as part of the application.
• Once approved, new members must pay the full initiation fee before activation of membership privileges.

Meeting the Echo Lake Country Club membership criteria is simple for some, but the approval procedure ensures new members meet the club’s standards for admission.

Candidates should demonstrate they have the means and alignment to embrace all the club has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much are total first year costs?

With initiation, dues, fees, and spending minimums, new members can expect to invest $100,000+ in their first year, depending on membership type.

Can I pay the initiation fee in installments?

Initiation fees cannot be financed over time. The full fee must be paid before membership activation.

Are dues and fees waived if I’m out of town?

Dues are charged year-round regardless of how often you use the club. Fees are never waived for absence.

Can family members be added later?

Yes, spouses and children under 23 can be added. Additional fees apply based on membership type.

Can members host non-member guests?

Yes, members can host guests a limited number of times per year after paying guest fees.

Can I host my wedding or special event at the club?

Members can rent the club’s event spaces for weddings, parties, and corporate events for an additional charge.

Joining an Exclusive Club

Echo Lake Country Club provides a golfer’s paradise and a luxurious social and recreational environment. The substantial membership cost grants access to outstanding amenities, services, networking, and prestige. For those who can manage the sizable initiation fees, dues, and ongoing expenses, it’s an investment in an elevated lifestyle.

Can you swim in Echo Lake NY?

No, swimming is not permitted in Echo Lake. While a beautiful natural feature, the lake is not maintained for recreational swimming. Echo Lake Country Club has excellent swimming pools available for member use instead.

Can I wear jeans to a country club?

Most country clubs, including Echo Lake, do not allow denim jeans, even dress jeans. Acceptable casual attire would include khakis, non-jean slacks, skirts, blouses, and collared shirts. Check with the club for their latest dress code.

What is country club casual for a woman?

For women, country club casual includes dresses, skirts, blouses, sweaters, dressy pants and capris. Sundresses and dress shorts are often acceptable for daytime warm weather. Echo Lake prohibits revealing or torn clothing. upscale casual dress is recommended.