I was going to say my motivation to start golfing last summer was the distance from my residence to the local golf course & driving range. However, I have lived in the same complex for three years. What changed? I moved to another unit (my balcony now overlooks the golf course). Out of site was out of mind so to if if you don't see a course every day, to really improve you will probaby have to schedule regular practice, lessons, and play dates.

 

Comfort Level
The general thought is that golf courses cater to "members" or to "golfers" and not to people who don't already know what they are doing. Maybe this perception is something courses or clubs should consider. I could think of alot of ways to attract the possible new golfer but I don't see much of that going on around the country. 
The local course is a public course that most people think is as good or better than most country clubs. In addition to an 18 hole regulation course, they have a driving range, putting practice area, pro shop and coffee shop. They had a huge banner advertising beginner lessons and it's cost.

Despite this, I still went there twice before doing anything other than buying a soda at the coffee shop. Then I signed up for group lessons and got the ball rolling.