Written by: Emily Joswiak • January 31, 2023• Lifestyle

What Are the Best States for Playing Pickleball?

Pickleball continues to be one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, particularly in the US, but what are the best states for playing pickleball?

Occasionally, a sport rises in popularity, leaving several curious onlookers interested in participating. Pickleball is one such sport that is graduating from niche to mainstream, particularly after Stephen Colbert hosted a celebrity tournament with a handful of A-listers. While the game does continue to grow, some areas may not be as into it as others. So, what are the best states for playing pickleball?

Florida

A cooperative climate ensures that every pickler can scratch their itch and hit the pickleball courts. Unsurprisingly, here in the Sunshine State of Florida, we have many adamant and aspiring pickleball players.

Unofficially, Naples, Florida, earned the distinction of being the pickleball capital of the US, as it hosts the US Open Pickleball Championships. Additionally, Naples has a pickleball center that has over 60 courts available. Naples isn’t the only pickleball hotbed in Florida, however—you can find a court in recreational centers, beach resorts, and sports facilities throughout the state.

Colorado

Colorado continues to be one of the trendiest states to live in, so it makes logical sense that one of the fastest-growing sports in the country is gaining steam there. There is clear intrigue for pickleball among Colorado residents since folks search “pickleball” at the second-highest frequency.

There isn’t a month that goes by that you cannot participate in a prominent pickleball tournament in Colorado. The state’s most populous city, Denver, has nearly 40 pickleball courts to explore.

Arizona

Like Florida, Arizona benefits from consistent weather 365 days a year. Additionally, Arizona is a retirement destination for several people. If those retirees want to stay active, pickleball is a fantastic option.

Pickleball continues to be a popular sport for many seniors because it’s relatively low-impact and fun to play. This February in Surprise, Arizona, the city will host its first-ever Wydler Cup, a USA Pickleball-sanctioned event.

Idaho

Florida, Colorado, and Arizona are clear pickleball havens. However, the following two states are wildcards in the pickleball world.

To the shock of many, pickleball is thriving in the Gem State. Granted, Idaho shares a border with Washington, where pickleball originated. Still, it’s hard to imagine a state where it’s below freezing many months of the year has an interest in pickleball!

Utah

There is an undisputed champion for pickleball popularity, and it’s Utah. There’s no rhyme or reason why Utah and pickleball are a match made in heaven, but it nearly doubles the number of searches as Idaho. While many millennials once dreamed of being like John Stockton, today’s youth may idolize Tyler Loong, a Salt Lake City native who is no stranger on pickleball leaderboards.

It’s clear that pickleball isn’t confined to a box, as states across the US are joining this fun sport. Now that you know the best states for pickleball, you can visit some of the finest locations locally in Florida or throughout the rest of the United States.

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Last modified: January 31, 2023