What Is Considered Low Handicap in Golf?

A handicap is a handy metric for how well a golfer plays each round. Handicaps are used to level the playing field whenever golfers of different skill and experience levels come together to play. Generally speaking, the lower your score, the better you play.

But what is considered a low handicap?

Everyone has a different idea of a strong and weak handicap, but there's a general consensus that the low range starts at 9 and gets lower from there. But within that range, there are low, mid, and high single-digit handicaps. Learn the difference below.

Low Single Digit Handicap

To calculate your handicap, you must play at least 20 rounds so you can tabulate your eight best scores. The average of those scores becomes your handicap, which you can recalculate and bring lower as you practice and get better.

A low single-digit range of anywhere from 1-3 is the best score you can get. Scorecards for this average tend to show gross scores between 73 and 75. 

Mid Single-Digit Handicap

The mid-handicap range runs between 4 and 6. On the course, that translates into a scorecard showing gross scores between 76 and 79. 

This range is not to be confused with a mid-handicap, which runs between 10 and 18 or 10 and 20, depending on who you ask. This is close to the best score you can get, so it's a great motivator to keep playing.

High Single-Digit Handicap

Not to be confused with a high handicap (which runs anywhere above 18-20), a high single-digit score runs between 7 and 9. That means you're shooting in the high 70s to low 80s. 

When you're shooting in this range, the goal should be to consistently break 80. Keep your eyes on that mid-single-digit range and work hard to shoot into it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is a Low Handicap in Golf?

If your eight-best average amounts to anywhere between 1 and 9, you have what's considered a low handicap. That range is subdivided by many into high, low, and mid-single-digit handicaps, which can be an incentive to improve.

What Is a Mid-Handicap Golfer?

All things considered, being a mid-handicapper is an impressive feat. This range extends from 10 to 18 or 20, depending on who you ask. It represents a moderate skill level with nowhere to go but up (or down, score-wise).

Final Thoughts

Your handicap isn't reflective of who you are, but the work you've put into your game. You can always improve your scores, especially if you shop STITCH Golf for your golf gear, apparel, and must-have accessories.