Key takeaways:
Pickleball is growing fast, with 19.8 million Americans playing—a 45.8% jump from last year.
Interest in the sport is spreading worldwide, and its global market value is expected to more than double between 2021 and 2031.
With players of all ages and more courts being built, pickleball has become the fastest-growing sport in the U.S.
Pickleball courts are showing up everywhere these days, and for good reason. In 2024, 19.8 million Americans are playing the sport, which is a huge 45.8% increase from last year. It's easy to see why the game has caught on. With simple rules, a welcoming atmosphere, and plenty of health benefits, pickleball has become a favorite for players of all ages and experience levels.
As the sport keeps growing, it’s also reshaping communities and bringing people together in new ways. In the rest of this article, we’ll dive into the latest trends, from who’s playing to where the game is booming. Let’s take a closer look at what’s fueling the rise of pickleball in America and how you can make the most of it.
Pickleball statistics for 2025
Pickleball has exploded in popularity, with 19.8 million Americans now actively playing. That’s a staggering 311% increase over the last three years, making it the fastest-growing sport in the country. This rise isn't just about players—it’s reshaping the game’s infrastructure, too. USA Pickleball now tracks more than 68,000 courts across the country, with over 18,000 added just in 2024. This growth is making the sport more accessible than ever, and at PB5star, we’re keeping pace with gear that evolves right alongside it.
And the momentum isn’t stopping at the U.S. border. Globally, pickleball’s market value is expected to surpass the $2.5 billion mark in 2028. That growth reflects just how broad the sport’s appeal has become. Younger players are joining in droves, bringing fresh energy and shifting the average player age downward.
Demographic breakdown of pickleball players
The beauty of pickleball is how many different kinds of people are getting involved. From teenagers trying it out for the first time to retirees playing weekly with friends, the sport brings together a wide range of players. As its popularity grows, the community is becoming more diverse, inclusive, and fun to be part of.
Here’s what the current landscape looks like:
All ages welcome: Once dominated by older adults, pickleball is now seeing a big jump in interest from Millennials and Gen Z.
Beyond the burbs: While it started in retirement communities, pickleball is now thriving in cities and on college campuses.
Cross-generational fun: Families and friends of all ages are picking up paddles, making it a go-to activity for bonding and friendly competition.
Regional popularity and growth trends
Some areas of the country are seeing especially fast growth, thanks to good weather, strong local support, and a rising number of new courts. Pickleball is no longer just a suburban or retirement community activity—cities and college campuses are now fully on board.
Sunbelt surge: States like Florida, Arizona, and California are hotspots thanks to year-round sunshine and active communities.
Urban rise: Big cities such as New York and Chicago are quickly expanding their court counts, making space for the growing interest.
College craze: Universities are building new courts to keep up with student demand, helping introduce the sport to younger players.
Midwest momentum: Cities like Madison and Detroit are turning old tennis courts into pickleball hubs, keeping pace with growing interest.
Pickleball facilities by city and state
Pickleball's rise isn’t just a trend—it’s showing up in neighborhoods, parks, and sports complexes across the country. Cities and states are racing to meet demand, with new courts opening almost every day. As of early 2025, there are over 16,700 pickleball courts in the U.S., and that number keeps climbing fast.
Top court access cities: St. George, Utah leads with an impressive 21.4 courts per 100,000 residents, followed by Bend, Oregon (11.2) and Surprise, Arizona (10.4). These cities are considered top-tier destinations for serious players and weekend enthusiasts alike.
State highlights: California has more than 1,000 total courts, while Utah stands out for its court availability per capita. Florida and Arizona also lead thanks to their sunny climates and dedicated pickleball communities.
Urban growth: Places like Austin, Denver, and Raleigh are seeing a rapid expansion of public and private court access, showing just how much the sport is catching on in major metro areas.
Nationwide boom: The number of known pickleball venues in the U.S. has surpassed 10,320, up from fewer than 2,000 a decade ago. That’s a massive 650% increase in locations since 2017.
As courts pop up across the map, PB5star is proud to support the players filling them. Whether you’re playing under the desert sun in Arizona or stepping onto a freshly painted court in Wisconsin, our gear—like the PB5 Court2 shoes—is made to help you play comfortably and confidently. Wherever the game takes you, we’ve got you covered.
Pickleball tournaments
Tournaments are now a major part of the pickleball experience. From small-town showdowns to nationally televised championships, they bring players together and show how much the sport has grown. Whether you’re a first-time participant or aiming for the podium, there’s a tournament that fits your skill level.
Steady rise: Over 45,000 players competed in organized events across the U.S. last year, with sanctioned tournament participation seeing explosive growth. In fact, tournaments sanctioned by USA Pickleball increased by 85% between 2013 and 2018, as noted by Market.us.
Pro spotlight: The APP and PPA Tours are helping take pickleball mainstream, with some prize pools now topping $150,000. These events have drawn national sponsors and media coverage, boosting the sport’s visibility and prestige.
Big crowds and big benefits: The 2022 USA Pickleball National Championships brought an estimated $9 million in economic activity to its host city. Tournaments are now key tourism drivers in many regions, attracting players and spectators alike.
All ages welcome: One of the sport’s biggest strengths is its wide appeal. Youth tournaments are on the rise, and divisions for senior players are thriving too, showing that pickleball’s tournament scene is growing across generations.
The latest trends in pickleball
Pickleball continues to grow at a fast pace, and 2025 is shaping up to be another big year for the sport. From new technologies to community-focused growth, here's what’s shaping the game right now.
Player growth: With millions of new players joining each year, participation is expected to reach over 8 million by 2025. This surge is bringing more energy to the courts and inspiring innovation in gear and court design.
Smarter equipment: AI-designed paddles and smart court systems are making waves, helping players analyze their game and improve their skills.
Eco-friendly focus: Sustainability is taking a front seat. More brands are now using recycled materials and offering environmentally conscious gear options, helping the sport grow responsibly. At PB5star, we're proud to offer performance-driven apparel and footwear that supports this shift. By choosing PB5star, you're not only investing in quality gear but also joining a movement to grow the sport with care for the environment.
Younger players, bigger impact: The 25–34 age group is now the largest demographic in pickleball. Their presence is helping shift pickleball’s image and pushing the sport toward a more youthful, competitive future.
New kinds of courts: Multipurpose venues are popping up, blending pickleball with other lifestyle amenities like coffee shops, gyms, and social lounges. This trend is turning courts into year-round community spaces.
Local support is growing: Grants from organizations like USA Pickleball—more than $45,000 to date—are helping fund grassroots programs that bring pickleball to more neighborhoods and schools across the country.
Be part of the growing pickleball community
Pickleball is catching on all across the country, with 19.8 million active players in 2024 and new courts popping up everywhere. But it’s not just about the game—it’s about the people you meet, the laughs you share, and the connections you build on and off the court. Whether you're playing at your neighborhood park or a dedicated facility, it’s a great way to stay active and feel part of something fun.
If you're ready to jump in, our PB5 Court2 shoes are made to support you through every match and every conversation after. They’re built for comfort, stability, and all the moments that make pickleball more than just a sport. Check out our website to explore gear that keeps up with your game and helps you feel right at home in the growing pickleball community.
