3 Florida Cities Ranked As Most Pickleball Obsessed
The fastest-growing sport in America is showing no signs of slowing down. Now in the warmer weather months, pickleball can be seen (and heard) being played on courts in all corners of the country. In a recent study by Solitaire Bliss, three Florida areas ranked in the top five most pickleball obsessed cities.
“The Association of Pickleball Professionals reported more than 36.5 million players in 2022,” Solitaire Bliss begins. Pickleheads, which is an extensive online resource for all things pickleball, has taken their research a bit further. To fully show backing information on what is happening with this phenomenon they provide some statistics that show incredible growth numbers.
For example, pickleball has shown 185.6% growth over the past three years. The forecasted compounded annual growth rate over the next five years is 7.7%. Finally, Pickleheads states there are approximately 10,320 places to play pickleball.
So how big is pickleball in Florida?
For starters, the 2023 Minto US Open Pickleball Championships was held in Naples back in April. Florida is second to California in states with the most courts in the country. Furthermore, in Solitaire Bliss’ report, the top two pickleball cities in America are in Florida. The third city in the sunshine state comes in at number four. So in short, Florida has three of the top four most obsessed pickleball cities in America. Here they are.
#4 Tampa
Only Atlanta, Georgia stands in the way of Florida claiming the top three cities.
#2 Orland0
Organizations like Pickleball Orlando allow players not only enjoy the game, but socialize and create and create a fun social community.
#1 Miami
The same can be said for the #1 ranked most obsessed pickleball city. In fact, Miami even has its own Facebook group dedicated to a city pickleball club. A simple Google search on the best places to play here will produce tons of results.
Finally, Florida only has to edge out Hawaii and Massachusetts. The state will then claim the top spot for the most obsessed pickleball area in the country.
Seven Great Places To Play Pickleball in Tampa
Cuscaden Park
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Known for being a recreational sport landmark (where numerous MLB baseball players trained), there are also six pickleball courts at Cuscaden Park. Each are dedicated to Pickleball with permanent lines and nets. They are free to use and open from sunrise to sunset.
HCC Tennis & Pickleball Center
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Hillsborough Community College (HCC) has its own tennis and pickleball facility. Though a membership is required to play, there are eight courts available and classes you can register for.
Northlakes Sports Complex
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Home to the Northlakes Recreation Center, there are eight outdoor courts here in addition to six tennis courts and two racquet ball courts. There’s something for everyone here, with walking trails and lacrosse fields on the grounds. Bring the whole family!
Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park
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Reservations are available at 25-acre park located just north of the University of Tampa and across the Hillsborough River. There are two outdoor courts in close proximity to public restrooms and water.
Pickleball Gas Worx - coming soon!
The Tampa Bay Times has reported Ybor City’s Gas Worx will open the indoor pickleball courts this spring. It is in part thanks to the Tampa Pickleball Crew, who are leading the efforts. The 28,000-square-foot club will house seven courts. The plan allows for there to be both open times and court reservation options that can be secured via an app.
Tampa Pickleball Crew
Walter Fuller Pickleball Courts
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These four outdoor hard courts are dedicated to Pickleball. There is a full gym schedule dedicated to the game, four days a week. In close proximately to the lake and pool, this facility is open to the public and does not require a membership fee.
East Lake Woodlands Tennis and Pickleball
Described as an active community, this Oldsmar club has 12 outdoor courts available for Pickleball. The game is offered to members of all ages. There are tournaments, clinics, and social events held throughout the year.
Photo by: Emilee Chinn/Getty Images
