I debated for a while and finally ended up joining a club this year and I cannot say enough good things. The initiation fee wasn't terrible and was my only hesitation however once past that the monthly fee is less than what I would normally spend in two weeks of playing golf around the area. The benefits I have found are:
Amazing Practice Facilities
Ability to make a tee time at moment's notice same day (have finished work early numerous times and made a twilight time and am able to play as many holes as I can get in)
Rounds take significantly less time playing most in under 3 hours with 4somes and have played some by myself in just over 2 hours. This is true on weekends as well when public courses around here a round normally takes 5 hours
The course is always in amazing condition
Events and tournaments are a lot of fun and a great way to meet people
Other amenities are nice to have
There are definitely cons mainly if you get bored playing the same course but I can't recommend it enough.