Here’s Where to Shop for Better Bargains Than Costco

As of August 31, 2025, Costco operated 914 warehouse locations worldwide, and by November 2025, this number had increased to 918, making it one of the largest membership-based retail chains on the planet.

In its most recent fiscal year ending August 31, 2025, Costco reported approximately $269.9 billion in annual net sales, reflecting solid growth compared with the prior year.

While Costco remains a go-to destination for everyday shoppers thanks to its competitive pricing and broad product selection, several lesser-known retail chains also deliver compelling alternatives — with unique offerings, services, or local advantages that may appeal to different types of consumers. Here are eight underrated alternatives worth considering.

This post was updated in February 2026 to include updated information about popular Costco alternatives.

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, that’s still cheaper than 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 pack for about $1.25 to $1.50 at the Dollar Store, while a large multi-pack at Costco typically costs $15 or more.

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 range widely in price, with some specialty sets costing $30 for two, whereas at the Dollar Store, you’ll be paying about $1.25 each. Which means you’ll only be paying $10 for a new set.

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 offers a similar loft bed with a built-in desk surface starting at $449.

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

• 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.

All Ace Hardware stores are privately owned and often rent out their tools. 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.