The 8 Retail Stores That Might Just Be Better Than Costco

Costco is one of the largest retail stores in the world. According to the National Retail Federation, as of 2023, it ranked fifth in global retail sales according to the National Retail Federation. Not only does the retail giant have a huge presence domestically, but they have an international reach, as well, and is found in many countries, including Canada, Mexico, Japan, the United Kingdom, France, South Korea, Australia, and more.

However, they aren't the only great option, and other chains offer similar and perhaps even better products and services. Let’s take a look at the 8 retail stores that might just be better than Costco and why you might want to consider visiting them.

This post was updated in January 2026 to include new images and additional editorial enhancements.

Club members receive free curbside pickup on eligible $50 orders. Plus members can now get free curbside pickup, and they will even load your car.

Are you running late and want to avoid the queue? You can now scan your items, pay in the app, and head straight out the door. In addition, if you have a budget, you can see your total as you go along. Don’t forget to save even more by looking for extra savings items in the Scan & Go app.

According to Mass Live, as of January 2025, membership fees will increase. The Club level fees begin at $60 per year, and Club+ fees start at $120 per year. However, BJ’s standard membership remains slightly cheaper than Costco’s, while the premium Club+ membership is now the same price as Costco’s Executive membership.

Moreover, BJ’s has two different house brands, Berkley Jensen and Wellsley Farms. Whereas Costco only has one house brand. The quality is as good or better than other national brands, with big savings.

If you are looking for a gorgeous new dining set, you should consider going to Whole Foods Market. You can pick up a stunning new set between $179 and $732, whereas one at Costco can cost between $500 and $8000. You can save a fortune.

Fruits and vegetables have a short life span, so it would be better to buy these items at Whole Foods Market. But unless you have a few meals worked out for a 20 lb bag of potatoes from Costco, you will be more likely to waste some of them.

Sometimes you find yourself in a situation where you haven’t got any more batteries. This can be quite frustrating. There are dollar stores everywhere. You can pick up a small pack for $1.25–$1.50 at the Dollar Store, but Costco’s larger packs often have a lower per-battery price.

Dollar Stores have a wide variety of glassware, whereas at Costco, there is a limited selection, and you’ll probably be paying a lot more. For example, a set of 8 wine glasses at Costco can be found for as low as $17, while at the Dollar Store, you’ll pay about $1.25–$1.50 per glass, or $10–$12 for a set of 8.

Loft beds are great if your child has a small room. Your kid can do homework or play underneath and sleep on top. Costco’s loft bed is $429.99; however, IKEA can beat that for $349, and it has a built-in desk surface.

Signing up for IKEA Family is free, and customers can reap the following great benefits.

• Free shipping on small orders over $50.
• Members-only offers.
• Access to exclusive national offers.
• Free coffee and tea. Try their Swedish meatballs for lunch.
• Surprises, rewards, and more.
• Free workshops and events.
• 90-day price protection.
• Buyback and resell.

Most Ace Hardware stores offer services such as acrylic cutting, screen repair, glass cutting, plumbing, electrical, handyman, and heating and cooling that can help save you a bundle of cash.

Many Ace Hardware stores are privately owned, and some offer tool rental, but availability varies by location. The upside to this is that their rentals are not used as much as those of bigger stores. So, if you don’t want to buy a new floor sander or another power tool, you can find a deal to rent one at Ace.

You can sign up for free to Kohl’s reward system. Reward members can earn up to 5% cash rewards and 7.5% when they use a Kohl’s card. You also receive a birthday gift, other personalized perks, and more.

Customers have said that they often find 50% off deals for clothing at Kohl’s and have found that the quality of the material is much better, and they have a larger collection than Costco’s.

While Costco members can benefit from car services at great prices, they do not offer some services. If you need to replace your car battery, AutoZone will gladly do it. Furthermore, they also offer free battery testing, recycling, and charging.

Furthermore, vehicle parts can be costly, and it is best to shop around. You can find better deals at AutoZone than at Costco. It’s always best to shop around first.