Americans are expressing concerns about the impact of pickleball on their local economy and property values. The sport, which has gained immense popularity in recent years, has faced criticism due to the repetitive and irritating noise it produces. According to the Association of Pickleball Professionals, nearly 19% of adult Americans, or 48.3 million people, have played pickleball at least once between March 2022 and 2023.
While pickleball has been praised for providing an affordable and low-impact form of exercise and socialization, some individuals are growing frustrated with its rapid growth. The sport has sparked numerous legal disputes, primarily centered around noise complaints. San Francisco socialite Holly Peterson, for example, started a petition on Change.org to shut down pickleball courts in her upscale neighborhood of Presidio Heights. Peterson argued that the noise not only disrupts homeowners but also negatively impacts the local economy.
However, Peterson faced backlash when it was revealed that she was trying to sell her mansion, which features its own outdoor pickleball court. Despite the controversy, there is currently no concrete evidence linking pickleball to property value depreciation. Nevertheless, several lawsuits have been filed against homeowners associations, cities, and counties regarding noise complaints.
One resident, Jaye Gleyzal, took her homeowners association in Sea Cliff, Carlsbad to court, seeking to ban pickleball and obtain $300,000 in damages due to the distress caused by the noise. Gleyzal reported experiencing splitting headaches and increased blood pressure, attributing them to the constant irritation of the sport. Her lawyer, Nicholas Caplin, claims to have handled multiple pickleball-related disputes and achieved outright bans on the sport as well as monetary damages.
Given the potential legal disputes and the potential impact on property values, homeowners may want to think twice before installing pickleball courts in their backyards. However, not all real estate professionals discourage pickleball, with some even suggesting that having a court nearby can be a selling point in today’s housing market.
Aside from concerns about property values, pickleball has also led to an increase in injuries and healthcare costs. UBS analysts predict that Americans will spend between $250 to $500 million on healthcare expenses related to pickleball injuries this year. The analysts expect a 150% increase in the number of pickleball players, reaching 22.3 million, with older adults constituting one-third of “core players” who play at least eight times a year. Older players are more susceptible to strains, sprains, and fractures, particularly in the wrist and lower leg.
UBS analysts estimate that pickleball will result in 67,000 emergency department visits, 366,000 outpatient visits, 8,800 outpatient surgeries, 4,700 hospitalizations, and 20,000 post-acute episodes in 2023, costing approximately $377 million. The analysts attribute these injuries to the “can-do” attitude of today’s seniors, which can lead to a higher risk of sports-related injuries and subsequent orthopedic procedures.
To prevent pickleball injuries and avoid hefty healthcare costs, players are advised to use the appropriate equipment, warm up adequately before playing, and ensure proper nutrition and hydration. It is also recommended to consult with health insurers for additional information on injury prevention and health management while enjoying the sport.
In conclusion, while pickleball continues to grow in popularity, it is facing criticism for its impact on property values and healthcare costs. Homeowners and players alike must weigh the potential benefits against the hidden costs and potential legal disputes associated with the sport.
