The son of a chiropractor, Johnson was born in Iowa City, Iowa and raised in Cedar Rapids, the oldest of three children.

Played college golf at Drake University. Following a gift in 2016, the Drake University men's and women's golf programs unveiled the Zach Johnson Golf Room, featuring state-of-the-art technology.

Annually hosts approximately 50 college golfers at his house for a College Golf Fellowship retreat.

Follows the University of Iowa sports teams. Served as an honorary captain for the Iowa football team in 2015, delivering a pre-game speech to the team.

Inducted into the Iowa Golf Hall of Fame in 2016.

Received the 2020 Payne Stewart Award in honor of his character, sportsmanship and dedication to charitable giving.