If you’re on a mission to save big on everyday essentials, household goods, and even gas, a membership to a warehouse club like Costco or Sam’s Club could be your ticket. These two retail giants are popular for their bulk-based discounts and exclusive member perks, but how do they stack up when you’re deciding where to invest your annual fee? From pricing to product selection and unique benefits, we’ve broken down what each club offers so you can choose the one that saves you the most.

Membership Fees and Pricing

When comparing Costco and Sam’s Club, the first thing shoppers notice is the membership cost. Both have tiered plans, but Sam’s Club tends to be more affordable.

Costco Memberships

  • Gold Star Membership: $60/year for basic access
  • Executive Membership: $120/year with 2% cashback on eligible purchases (up to $1,000 annually)

Costco’s plans lean toward a higher price point, but the Executive Membership attracts loyal shoppers with its cashback rewards, which can offset the cost if you spend heavily on groceries, gas, or household supplies.

Sam’s Club Memberships

  • Club Membership: $50/year for standard access
  • Plus Membership: $110/year with free shipping, early shopping hours, and 2% cashback (up to $500 annually)

Sam’s Club wins on affordability, with a lower entry-level membership fee. The Plus Membership offers a strong value for frequent shoppers, especially given the added perks like free shipping.

Which Saves You More?

Costco’s higher fees might be worth it if you plan to maximize the cashback from an Executive Membership. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly annual fee, Sam’s Club is the winner.

Product Selection and Quality

One of the main reasons people flock to warehouse clubs is for their vast product selection. But while both Costco and Sam’s Club offer a wide variety of items, their emphasis differs slightly.

Costco

Costco is known for its commitment to quality. With Kirkland Signature as its private-label brand, Costco consistently delivers high-quality items, from groceries to electronics, at competitive prices. The chain also has a strong focus on organic products, offering numerous options for health-conscious shoppers.

Costco’s inventory tends to feature carefully curated items. Rather than presenting shoppers with dozens of similar options, it focuses on a small number of high-quality choices, making decision-making easier.

Sam’s Club

Sam’s Club offers a larger inventory with more variety in specific product categories. For instance, you might find multiple brands of the same product, giving customers more options to choose what meets their preferences and budgets.

Sam’s Club members will also notice that it has an edge when it comes to tech-forward shopping. Its Scan & Go feature lets you skip the checkout line entirely, and you can schedule curbside pickup for added convenience.

Which Saves You More?

If you value high-quality, organic products and quick decision-making, Costco might save you money by helping you avoid lower-quality alternatives. But if you prefer having more choices and tech-savvy tools, Sam’s Club offers solid savings opportunities.

Gas Stations and Savings

Both Costco and Sam’s Club are known for having some of the cheapest gas prices in town. Access to their on-site fuel stations can offer significant savings compared to traditional fuel stations.

  • Costco Gas: Renowned for its high-quality Kirkland Signature fuel, Costco provides remarkable savings at the pump but often requires waiting in longer lines due to its popularity.
  • Sam’s Club Gas: Offers similar savings, and many locations have dedicated lanes for Plus members, allowing you to fuel up more quickly during peak hours.

Which Saves You More?

Both clubs provide steep savings on gas, but Sam’s Club may have a slight edge in terms of shorter wait times.

Exclusive Member Perks and Services

Costco Perks

Costco’s perks go beyond the store shelves:

  • Travel Discounts: From rental cars to vacation packages, Costco Travel provides members with exclusive deals on trips.
  • Appliances and Installation: Costco has a range of big-ticket items like appliances, often with extended warranties and delivery included.
  • Costco Credit Card: The Costco Anywhere Visa by Citi offers cashback opportunities like 4% on gas (up to $7,000/year), 3% on dining and travel, and 1% everywhere else.

Sam’s Club Perks

Sam’s Club is deeply focused on convenience and member technology:

  • Sam’s Club App and Scan & Go: These features make shopping quicker and easier, letting you scan items as you shop for a seamless checkout experience.
  • Tire and Battery Services: Car maintenance perks include discounted tire services and free battery testing and replacements with membership.
  • Extended Pharmacy and Optical Discounts: Sam’s Club offers unique pricing on prescription medications and glasses, perfect for families looking to save on health expenses.

Which Saves You More?

For travelers and those who buy big-ticket items, Costco might offer higher-value perks that translate to direct savings. However, families or individuals who prioritize tech conveniences and everyday services may find Sam’s Club more rewarding.

How to Choose the Right Membership for You

The decision between Costco and Sam’s Club ultimately depends on your shopping habits and lifestyle. Here’s how to decide:

  • Choose Costco if:
    • You prioritize quality over variety.
    • You shop often for organic and health-focused items.
    • You travel frequently and value travel discounts.
    • Cashback rewards and product warranties are important to you.
  • Choose Sam’s Club if:
    • You prefer lower membership fees.
    • You enjoy a wider selection of products and brands.
    • Tech-savvy shopping features like Scan & Go are appealing.
    • You want deeper pharmacy and optical savings.