Paying for the privilege of shopping at a wholesale warehouse isn’t always worth the cost. Many shoppers think they’re saving a bundle by buying in bulk but never bother to do the math. Is shopping at warehouses like Costco really worth it compared to your local grocery store?
With lower prices per unit for buying bulk, you might save a few dollars, but that can get gobbled up by travel expenses, food waste, and Gold Star or Executive membership fees. Let’s take a closer look at when shopping at Costco makes sense and when skipping it is a smart money move for your household.
Is the Costco Membership Fee Worth It?
Whether Costco’s cover charge is worthwhile depends on your situation.
The money itself can mean more or less depending on how much of a stretch it is for your budget, of course… but that’s not the only factor.
To figure out whether paying the membership fee would be a savings or a needless splurge, you’ve got to examine your purchasing needs and behaviors — and match them up with the goods and services Costco has to offer.
How Much Is a Costco Membership?
Costco offers three different memberships, one of which is a business membership and all of which have annual membership fees. All memberships, including the standard Gold Star membership, come with one free household card and are valid at all Costco locations worldwide.
Costco Membership Prices
Membership Annual Membership
