Do Costco Memberships Go on Sale?

If you're considering becoming a Costco member or have an existing one, you might wonder if there are opportunities to save on the cost of a membership. The short answer is that Costco membership fees typically do not go on sale. However, there are some strategies and promotions that can help reduce the overall cost.

Understanding Costco Membership Structure

A standard Costco membership covers two individuals. While the primary member is clear, the second member can often be a household member or, in some cases, a parent or roommate. This flexibility ensures that family members can share the benefits of a Costco membership without requiring separate memberships.

The Ultimate Membership, which costs twice as much as the regular membership (often referred to as the "Gold Star" membership), comes with additional benefits. If your accumulated discounts with the Ultimate Membership still don't cover the extra cost, Costco will refund the difference. This makes the Ultimate Membership more cost-effective over time if you buy enough items.

Promotions and Discounts for New Members

There are occasional promotions for new members, especially those who sign up for the Costco credit card. These promotions may include gift cards or cashback rewards rather than a direct discount on the membership fees.

For instance, the Costco credit card currently offers 4% cash back on gas purchases and 2% cash back on all other Costco purchases. This substantial cash back can help offset the cost of your membership. In many cases, using the credit card can result in significant savings over time.

Strategies for Occasional Shoppers

If you only plan to shop at Costco occasionally, there are still ways to manage the cost:

Shop as a Guest: If you know a member of the household who already has a Costco membership, you can often shop as a guest without incurring the non-member surcharge. Simply let them know you will be in the store and they can order items for you. Order Online: Another option is to order items online and choose curbside pickup or delivery. This eliminates any potential non-member fees. Costco Cash Cards: You can also ask a member to buy you a few Costco Cash Cards. These can be used for future purchases and are a convenient way to save on specific items.

Final Thoughts

While Costco membership fees don't typically go on sale, there are various tactics and promotions that can help make the membership more affordable. Whether you opt for the Ultimate Membership or stick with the regular membership, there are ways to ensure you get the most value from your membership.

For those who shop regularly, the added discounts and convenience of an Ultimate Membership can easily offset the extra cost. For occasional shoppers, the cash back on the Costco credit card, combined with other savings strategies, can help manage the cost effectively.