In this article I break down the top golf communities in Southern Oregon so you can decide which neighborhood fits your lifestyle, whether you're dreaming of a retirement retreat, a second home, or a day-to-day life where every morning feels like a resort vacation. I created a video covering the same topic and have helped hundreds of people relocate to the Rogue Valley — I’m sharing everything here in writing so you can reference details, comparisons, and insider tips about the top golf communities in Southern Oregon.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Community #5: Centennial Golf Club
• Community #4: Grants Pass Golf Club and Country Club
• Community #3: Running Y Ranch Resort
• Community #2: Rogue Valley Country Club
• Community #1: The Resort at Eagle Point & Eagle Point Golf Course
• Honorable Mention: Bandon Dunes (World-Famous Destination)
• How These Top Golf Communities in Southern Oregon Compare
• Buyer's Tips: How to Secure a Home in These Highly Desirable Communities
• FAQs About the Top Golf Communities in Southern Oregon
• Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Introduction

Throughout this guide I’ll walk you through five standout golf communities, plus an honorable mention for a world-class destination resort. I’ll cover course design, community vibe, membership structure, housing availability, amenities, and who each place tends to attract. I also include practical advice for buyers who want to pursue properties in these highly desirable neighborhoods. If you want to live in one of the top golf communities in Southern Oregon, this is the place to start.

Community #5: Centennial Golf Club

Centennial Golf Club sits on the east side of the Medford area and is our number five pick among the top golf communities in Southern Oregon. It’s a public-access course with championship-level features, meaning you get elite design and amenities without a private membership requirement. I say upfront: homes connected to Centennial are already in planning as part of a master plan community called Centennial Village — more on that below.

Key facts about Centennial Golf Club:

• Opened in 2006; inspired by golden-age course architecture.
• Par 72, roughly 7,300 yards from the back tees.
• Designed by two-time PGA Tour winner and 1977 U.S. Amateur champion John Fought.
• Layout features wide, links-style fairways through a former pear orchard with water hazards and strategic bunkering.

Even though Centennial is a public facility, the experience feels elevated: welcoming clubhouse, full-service grill, pro shop, and sweeping course views. Practice facilities include a driving range, practice screens, and youth programs like the PGA Junior League and the Southern Oregon Golf Academy that make it family-friendly.

Why Centennial ranks among the top golf communities in Southern Oregon:

• Strong national recognition: it was ranked No. 6 among top 50 public courses by Golf World Readers (2009) and placed in top 10 for course condition and overall quality.
• Local awards: multiple years named best golf course in southern Oregon by Mail Tribune readers; its third hole was called the region’s toughest.
• Future residential build-out: Centennial Village, a planned community, is projected to add 500+ homes on the course and several hundred townhomes and condos nearby, which will create one of the region’s most desirable golf-course communities when complete.

Who should consider Centennial? People who want a high-quality course without the exclusivity of a private club, families wanting great junior programs, and buyers who want to secure a home in a growing master-planned community. Because Centennial is public but high-end, it strikes a balance for many buyers looking at the top golf communities in Southern Oregon.

VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN MEDFORD, OREGON

Community #4: Grants Pass Golf Club and Country Club

Number four on my list is the Grants Pass Golf Club and Country Club, a semi-private, member-owned property tucked into rolling hills south of the city of Grants Pass. This club has genuine history — it began as a nine-hole course in 1948, expanded in 1972, and received a comprehensive redo in 2005. Today it sits on over 100 acres, and the property used to be a horse ranch, which adds to its character.

Course and club highlights:

• 18-hole championship par 72 layout with varied terrain.
• Front nine: flatter, forgiving holes with neighborhood views.
• Back nine: climbs into forested, hillier terrain with narrow fairways, tall pines, and water hazards—more demanding and strategic.
• Practice facilities: driving range, short game areas, bunkers, and a large putting green near the first tee with PGA-level instruction available.

Membership at Grants Pass is structured and limited. The club is member-owned with a cap of around 450 stockholder memberships, meaning equity ownership, initiation fees, and monthly dues. Members enjoy clear benefits like reciprocal privileges, cart storage, preferential access, and a full tournament/social calendar. Non-members can also play, but with restricted tee-time access; typically public play begins after mid-morning once members have access.

Housing and community vibe:

• Housing directly on the course is limited—only a few dozen true golf-front homes exist.
• There isn’t a sprawling, planned residential community like at other entries on this list; the area is low-key, close-knit, and steeped in local character.

Who this one is for: golfers who want private-club quality without losing the small-town community feel. If you value member camaraderie, tournaments, junior programs, and the ability to drive a cart from your home to the course in a low-key, private environment, Grants Pass is a strong fit among the top golf communities in Southern Oregon.

VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN GRANTS PASS, OREGON

Community #3: Running Y Ranch Resort

Coming in at number three is the Running Y Ranch Resort, just outside Klamath Falls — roughly an hour’s drive from Medford. This place is the classic resort-style community: Arnold Palmer’s only signature design in Oregon and a full-service resort with activities and amenities that appeal to retirees, second-home buyers, and families who love nature and recreation.

Why Running Y stands out among the top golf communities in Southern Oregon:

• Arnold Palmer design: the 18-hole, par-72 course plays around 7,100 yards and is recognized nationally.
• Scenic integration: the course weaves through wetlands and uplands with views of Upper Klamath Lake and the Cascade Range.
• Resort offerings: hotel, spa services, on-site dining, pro shop, driving range, putting green, horseback riding, ice skating in the winter, and more.
• Access to natural lands: the property includes thousands of acres ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and outdoor pursuits.

Running Y has also been consistently ranked among Oregon’s best courses by national outlets like GolfPass. It’s a community where the outdoors are front and center, and where the golf experience is paired with a relaxed, scenic lifestyle.

A little-known fun fact: Running Y features an 18-hole mini-golf course that’s not your typical mini-golf—it’s manicured and challenging, built more like a short-course golf experience than a novelty putt-putt setup. That’s a perfect example of the attention to detail you’ll find across the property.

Housing and community feel:

• The Running Y neighborhood is intentionally small—maybe a couple of hundred homes—many of which are second homes or vacation properties.
• The community is quiet, laid-back, and ideal for buyers who want a resort lifestyle without the bustle of a large development.

Who should consider Running Y? If you want one of the premier resort lifestyle options in the region—amazing mountain and lake views, a top-tier Arnold Palmer–designed course, and resort amenities—Running Y earns a top spot among the top golf communities in Southern Oregon.

Community #2: Rogue Valley Country Club

At number two, we have the Rogue Valley Country Club, located right in the heart of Medford. This is Southern Oregon’s most established private golf community and it has long been the local favorite for people who want a true country club lifestyle while staying close to urban conveniences.

What sets Rogue Valley Country Club apart:

• 27 holes across two courses—the Rogue and the Oaks—allowing variety and flexibility for members.
• The 18-hole Rogue course is a championship layout with tree-lined fairways, pristine greens, and a design that is challenging without being intimidating.
• Extensive club amenities: tennis and pickleball courts, a swimming pool, fitness center, fine dining, casual dining, and year-round social programming.
• Family-oriented: strong youth programs and family activities, making it more than an adult-only country club.

Location is a major advantage: situated minutes from downtown Medford and near Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport, the club lets members enjoy both a private lifestyle and convenient access to shopping, dining, and services. That proximity—combined with established, higher-end neighborhoods surrounding the course—cements Rogue Valley Country Club’s place as one of the top golf communities in Southern Oregon.

Housing options:

• There’s no single, gated neighborhood labeled “Rogue Valley Country Club” but many homes circle the golf courses, offering golf-front or short-distance living.
• Expect classic, established properties and a steady market for upscale homes when they become available.

Who this community fits: buyers who want private club amenities, a social calendar, youth programs, and easy access to Medford city life. Rogue Valley Country Club is for those who want membership-driven lifestyle benefits while staying close to the region’s services and airport.

VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN MEDFORD, OREGON

Community #1: The Resort at Eagle Point & Eagle Point Golf Course

Number one on my list of the top golf communities in Southern Oregon is the Resort at Eagle Point and its Robert Trent Jones Jr.–designed Eagle Point Golf Course. Located about 15 minutes outside Medford, Eagle Point blends a resort lifestyle with elegant golf amenities and a welcoming community vibe that appeals broadly to retirees, empty nesters, and families.

Course characteristics:

• 18-hole, par-72, roughly 7,100 yards from the back tees, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.
• Multiple tees accommodate all levels of golfers—from beginners to seasoned players.
• Varied scenery: tree-lined holes, wide open vistas, and signature viewpoints throughout the layout.

Resort and community amenities include on-site lodging, well-regarded restaurants (including the Talon Grill with scenic course views), a pro shop, driving range, and lessons. The atmosphere supports stay-and-play groups, casual escapes, and residents who want a social, active lifestyle. Its resort-level amenities combined with short drives to Medford and Rogue Valley attractions make Eagle Point especially attractive.

Why Eagle Point ranks highest among the top golf communities in Southern Oregon:

• Balanced mix of resort amenities and everyday convenience—golfers get the resort experience without feeling remote.
• Strong social vibe that supports groups, tournaments, and a calendar of events appealing to diverse age groups.
• Access to Medford’s shopping, dining, and recreational offerings within minutes, which is a unique advantage for resort communities near larger towns.

Housing: Eagle Point offers a range of housing options around the course, from single-family golf-front homes to residences within the resort footprint. Because the community caters to retirees and families alike, inventory can move quickly—buyers should be prepared to act when a suitable property appears.

VIEW HOMES FOR SALE IN EAGLE POINT, OREGON

Honorable Mention: Bandon Dunes (World-Famous Destination)

No conversation about the top golf communities in Southern Oregon would be complete without an honorable mention for Bandon Dunes. While it functions differently than the communities above—Bandon is a destination resort rather than a traditional residential golf community—it deserves attention because of its global reputation and unmatched courses along the Oregon coast.

Why Bandon Dunes is exceptional:

• Seven distinct links-style courses designed to respect and harmonize with coastal terrain—courses include Bandon Dunes, Pacific Dunes, Bandon Trails, Old Macdonald, Sheep Ranch, and other short courses and practice venues.
• World recognition: Bandon Dunes Resort has been named one of the best golf resorts on the planet and several of its courses rank in top-10 lists nationally and globally.
• High-profile events: the resort has hosted USGA championships and continues to attract elite tournaments and international visitors.

Although Bandon doesn’t offer a traditional "buy a house on the course" community in the same way as the other entries, it does offer an immersive retreat with lodges, inns, and private cottages that are ideal for extended stays. If your dream is to play world-class links golf and to enjoy coastal vistas, Bandon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and a necessary honorable mention.

How These Top Golf Communities in Southern Oregon Compare

Let me summarize the core differences so you can quickly see which community might suit your priorities:

• Centennial — Public-access, championship feel, growing master-plan community (great for families and expanded future inventory).
• Grants Pass — Semi-private, historic club, limited housing, strong member focus (great for low-key private-club living).
• Running Y — Resort-style, Arnold Palmer signature course, nature-forward lifestyle (best for those seeking resort living and scenic retreats).
• Rogue Valley Country Club — Established private club in Medford, 27 holes, family programs, city-adjacent (ideal for members who value proximity to town).
• Eagle Point — Top resort-community blend, Robert Trent Jones Jr. design, strong social and play options (my top overall pick for its balance).
• Bandon Dunes — Destination resort excellence; focus on play and lodging rather than residential ownership.

Each community ranks among the top golf communities in Southern Oregon for different reasons: design pedigree, resort amenities, member experience, or location. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize exclusivity, resort amenities, proximity to urban services, or scenic isolation.

Buyer's Tips: How to Secure a Home in These Highly Desirable Communities

Homes in these neighborhoods are highly desirable and often go quickly. Here are practical tips I share with buyers who want to land a property in one of the top golf communities in Southern Oregon:

1. Get pre-approved and be ready to move fast. Inventory is low and demand is high. A clean, well-documented offer stands out.
2. Work with us, a local agent who specializes in golf community listings. We often know about upcoming opportunities or private sales that never hit mainstream portals. Reach out at 541-827-8767.
3. Understand membership rules before you buy. If you want a private-club lifestyle, research initiation fees, dues, waitlists, and membership caps (especially for member-owned courses like Grants Pass).
4. Consider timing and seasonality. Resort communities might see more short-term rentals and seasonal inventory; plan accordingly if you want a quiet neighborhood or full-time residency.
5. Factor in ongoing costs. Homeowner association fees, club dues, and course assessments can impact your monthly budget—get full disclosures.
6. Visit multiple times. Spend mornings, evenings, and weekends at your target community to feel the rhythm of the neighborhood before committing.

FAQs About the Top Golf Communities in Southern Oregon

How much does it typically cost to buy in these communities?

Price ranges vary widely depending on the community, home size, and location. Expect higher-than-average pricing for golf-front homes and properties within private club neighborhoods. Resort communities and established private clubs typically command premium prices. For exact numbers, reach out with your budget and preferences so I can provide current market comps for the top golf communities in Southern Oregon.

Are memberships required to live in these communities?

Not always. Centennial is public-access so no membership is required to play. Grants Pass and Rogue Valley Country Club are private or semi-private with membership structures. Eagle Point and Running Y are resort-style communities—residences may be independent of club membership, but membership will be required for private club privileges. Bandon Dunes is a resort destination and does not function as a residential golf neighborhood.

Which community is best for families?

Rogue Valley Country Club and Centennial both have strong youth and family programs. Running Y offers family-oriented resort amenities and quiet neighborhoods that are family-friendly. Grants Pass is more intimate and local-focused but still supports junior programs. Eagle Point also supports families, with its social calendar and resort amenities making it attractive to varied age groups.

Are there investment opportunities in these golf communities?

Yes. Resort-area rentals (especially near Eagle Point and Running Y) and properties near Centennial’s planned Centennial Village could present growth opportunities. However, investment success depends on market timing, rental regulations, HOA rules, and demand cycles. I recommend analyzing rental potential and long-term appreciation with local comps and occupancy trends.

How should I start if I want to buy in one of these top golf communities in Southern Oregon?

Start by narrowing your priorities: resort vs private club, proximity to Medford, desired home style, and budget. Then get pre-approved for financing, and work with a specialist local agent (like myself) who has experience in these markets and can alert you to listings and off-market opportunities quickly.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

Each of the top golf communities in Southern Oregon offers something unique: championship design, private-club camaraderie, resort amenities, scenic retreat living, or world-class links golf. Whether you prioritize the social life of a country club, the quiet beauty of a resort community, or national-level course architecture, Southern Oregon has a match for you.

If you’re considering a move or want to monitor the market in any of these top golf communities in Southern Oregon, I’d be glad to help. I’ve worked with buyers nationwide relocating to the Rogue Valley and can provide up-to-date listings, off-market opportunities, and guidance through membership and HOA processes. My team also offers a free relocation guide that outlines neighborhoods, schools, and logistics for moving to Southern Oregon.

Reach out at 541-827-8767 , tell us what you’re looking for, and we’ll alert you when the right opportunity hits the market—sometimes even before it’s publicly listed. Which community would you love to call home? Let us know and we’ll send tailored options that match your goals.

See you on the next tour—and I hope to see you on the course soon!