Jerry,
NGF periodically surveys golfers as to why they play high end public courses. They are obviously allowed to pick from more than one, so the results don't equal 100%. Rather, its the number of golfers who think its an important factor, not the only or even the most important factor.
Results from 2005-
Scenery and Aesthetics – 85%
Service – 79%
Golf Cart Quality/Cleanliness – 78%
Clubhouse and Locker room – 77%
Overall Golf Maintenance – 77%
Greens Conditions – 73%
Food and Beverage – 71%
On Course Restrooms and Drinking Water – 66%
Tee Time Availability – 61%
Pace of Play – 57%
Convenience of Course Location – 45%
Name of Golf Course Architect – 3%
Please note the last, and the fact that NGF doesn't think to ask about strategy.
Just a guess, but I bet as price goes down, the number playing for convenience of location goes up.
I also wonder if the cart girls are factored in under scenery and aesthetics or food and beverage......