Costco vs Sam’s Club Comparison 2026: Membership Fees, Grocery Prices, Gas, Benefits and Which Is Better?

Choosing between Costco and Sam’s Club can make a noticeable difference in a household’s annual shopping budget. Both warehouse retailers offer bulk groceries, discounted household essentials, fuel savings, private-label products, and additional membership benefits. However, their prices, shopping experiences, rewards programs, and service offerings are not identical.

This costco vs sams club comparison examines the two warehouse retailers in 2026, including their latest membership fees, premium membership rewards, grocery prices, gas stations, delivery options, store brands, and customer benefits. The goal is to help U.S. shoppers determine which retailer offers better overall value rather than simply choosing the one with the lower membership price.

The short answer: Sam’s Club is generally attractive for shoppers who prioritize convenient checkout, curbside pickup, and lower membership fees. Costco is particularly appealing to households that value Kirkland Signature products, its product selection, and Executive membership benefits. However, the better choice depends on shopping habits, local store availability, and how much a household spends each year.

Costco vs. Sam’s Club: Membership Fees in 2026

One of the biggest differences between the retailers is the annual membership fee. Costco and Sam’s Club both offer standard and premium memberships, but Sam’s Club remains slightly less expensive.

As of November 2026, their standard annual membership prices are:

These are regular annual prices, before applicable taxes. Promotional offers for new members may temporarily reduce the first-year cost.

Costco Membership Options

Costco offers two primary personal membership levels:

• Gold Star Membership – $65 per year: Provides access to Costco warehouses, online shopping, and one additional household card.
• Executive Membership – $130 per year: Includes Gold Star benefits, an annual 2% reward on qualifying purchases, and additional benefits on selected Costco services and travel products.

The Executive reward is capped at $1,250 annually. Certain purchases are excluded, so shoppers should review the eligibility requirements before upgrading.

For a household that regularly purchases groceries, electronics, furniture, appliances, and other qualifying products, the Executive membership may offer meaningful value.

Sam’s Club Membership Options

Sam’s Club also provides two main membership levels:

• Club Membership – $60 per year: Includes warehouse access, member-only fuel prices, Scan & Go, a second membership card, and free curbside pickup on eligible orders.
• Plus Membership – $120 per year: Adds 2% Sam’s Cash on qualifying purchases, free shipping on eligible orders, early shopping hours, pharmacy and optical benefits, and additional delivery advantages.

An important development for shoppers is that Sam’s Club Plus now includes Walmart+, bringing additional shopping and delivery benefits into the premium membership package. Eligibility and individual benefit terms apply.

Sam’s Club increased its annual membership prices effective May 1, 2026, raising the Club tier from $50 to $60 and Plus from $110 to $120.

For official membership details, see Costco’s membership options and Sam’s Club membership plans.

Which Membership Offers Better Financial Value?

The lower annual fee gives Sam’s Club an initial advantage. However, the premium membership rewards deserve closer attention.

Both retailers offer a 2% reward on qualifying purchases, but the spending requirements and reward limits differ.

For Costco Executive members, spending approximately $3,250 annually on eligible purchases generates $65 in rewards, equal to the additional cost of upgrading from Gold Star.

For Sam’s Club Plus members, approximately $3,000 in eligible annual purchases generates $60 in Sam’s Cash, equal to the additional Plus membership cost.

These are simplified break-even calculations. They assume all spending qualifies and exclude taxes, reward restrictions, and other benefits.

The practical difference is that Costco offers a higher maximum annual reward, while Sam’s Club requires slightly less eligible spending to offset its premium upgrade fee.

Costco vs. Sam’s Club Grocery Prices: Where Can Shoppers Save More?

Grocery prices are among the most important considerations when comparing warehouse clubs.

Both retailers sell bulk quantities of everyday essentials, including:

• Milk, eggs, cheese, and butter
• Meat, poultry, and seafood
• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Frozen foods and prepared meals
• Cereal, snacks, and beverages
• Toilet paper and paper towels
• Laundry detergent and cleaning products

However, there is no universal winner across every grocery category.

A September 2026 comparison published by AARP examined 28 grocery items across Costco, Sam’s Club, and BJ’s Wholesale Club. Sam’s Club recorded the lowest overall basket price in that particular comparison.

That finding is useful, but it does not mean Sam’s Club will always be cheaper. Product sizes, brands, regional pricing, promotions, and availability can change the results.

Where Costco Has an Advantage

Costco is particularly attractive to shoppers who prioritize quality and private-label products.

Its Kirkland Signature brand covers a broad range of categories, including:

• Organic groceries
• Coffee and beverages
• Meat and seafood
• Vitamins and supplements
• Household essentials
• Clothing and personal care products

Many shoppers choose Kirkland Signature because they appreciate its product selection and value.

Costco also carries a rotating assortment of national brands and seasonal products, making it appealing to shoppers who enjoy discovering new items.

Where Sam’s Club Has an Advantage

Sam’s Club competes through its Member’s Mark private-label brand.

The range includes groceries, household products, cleaning supplies, furniture, clothing, and personal care items.

Its pricing strategy and promotional discounts can make it particularly appealing to families purchasing frequently used household essentials.

Sam’s Club also offers Instant Savings promotions, which can reduce the cost of selected products without requiring shoppers to use traditional paper coupons.

Kirkland Signature vs. Member’s Mark: Which Is Better?

Costco’s Kirkland Signature

Kirkland Signature is one of Costco’s most recognizable advantages. The brand includes products across grocery, household, health, and lifestyle categories.

Its appeal comes from the combination of product quality, variety, and competitive pricing.

Sam’s Club’s Member’s Mark

Member’s Mark competes in many of the same categories, offering alternatives to national brands and everyday household products.

It is particularly relevant for shoppers who want to reduce their regular grocery and household spending.

The better private-label brand depends on the product. A shopper may prefer Kirkland coffee but Member’s Mark paper products, for example. Comparing unit prices and package sizes is more useful than assuming one brand always wins.

Costco vs. Sam’s Club Gas Prices: Which Is Cheaper?

Fuel savings can make a warehouse membership more valuable, especially for households that drive frequently.

Both Costco and Sam’s Club operate fuel stations at selected locations and offer member-only gasoline pricing.

However, the cheapest option depends on the local market.

Gas prices can vary according to:

• State and local fuel taxes
• Regional wholesale gasoline costs
• Competition between nearby stations
• Fuel grade
• Local supply and demand

Neither retailer is guaranteed to have the lowest gasoline price in every city.

Costco Gas Stations

Costco gas stations are popular among members looking to combine grocery shopping with fuel purchases.

Many locations offer competitive gasoline prices, although not every warehouse has a fuel station.

Shoppers should check their local warehouse’s fuel availability and operating hours before planning a visit.

Sam’s Club Gas Stations

Sam’s Club also offers member-only fuel prices.

Its fuel savings can be especially useful for drivers who regularly visit a nearby club.

The Club and Plus membership levels both include access to member-only fuel prices, subject to location availability and applicable conditions.

Which Gas Station Should You Choose?

Compare the actual price per gallon rather than relying on general claims about one retailer being cheaper.

For example, a five-cent difference per gallon on a 15-gallon fill-up represents just 75 cents. Regular savings can accumulate, but the distance traveled to reach the station should also be considered.

For many drivers, the closest convenient warehouse with competitive fuel prices is the better option.

Shopping Experience: Costco vs. Sam’s Club

The shopping experience is another major difference between the two retailers.

Costco generally emphasizes a warehouse shopping experience built around curated product selection, rotating inventory, bulk packages, and special promotions.

Sam’s Club places considerable emphasis on digital shopping tools and convenience.

Costco Shopping Experience

Costco shoppers can browse groceries, electronics, appliances, clothing, furniture, seasonal products, and other merchandise.

The retailer is also known for its food court, prepared foods, bakery, and rotating seasonal inventory.

However, popular warehouses can become crowded, particularly during weekends and holiday shopping periods.

Costco’s product assortment can also vary between locations.

Sam’s Club Shopping Experience

Sam’s Club offers a similar warehouse format but provides several features designed to reduce the time spent shopping.

Its most recognizable convenience feature is Scan & Go.

Customers can scan products using the Sam’s Club mobile app while shopping, pay through the app, and leave without completing a traditional checkout process.

This can be particularly useful during busy shopping periods.

Scan & Go vs. Costco Checkout

Sam’s Club advantage

Sam’s Club has a clear advantage in this category because Scan & Go is available to Club and Plus members.

Costco offers traditional checkout and self-checkout at participating warehouses, but it does not provide an equivalent general in-app Scan & Go shopping experience.

For shoppers who value speed and convenience, this difference can influence which retailer they prefer.

Curbside Pickup and Grocery Delivery: Which Is Better?

Online shopping and delivery have become important parts of warehouse retailing.

Both retailers provide options for customers who prefer not to walk through the warehouse.

Sam’s Club Pickup and Delivery

Sam’s Club offers free curbside pickup to members on eligible orders, with Plus members receiving additional advantages.

Plus membership also includes free shipping on eligible orders over $50 and free delivery from the club on qualifying orders over $50.

The retailer offers additional delivery options, including paid faster delivery services, subject to availability.

Costco Pickup and Delivery

Costco provides online shopping, two-day delivery on eligible products, and same-day grocery delivery in participating areas.

Same-day delivery is generally powered by Instacart, and prices may differ from warehouse prices. Delivery charges, service fees, and other conditions may apply.

Costco Executive members also receive a $10 monthly credit toward eligible SameDay.Costco.com orders of $150 or more, subject to the applicable terms.

Which Retailer Is Better for Convenience?

Sam’s Club has an advantage for shoppers who regularly use curbside pickup and Scan & Go.

Costco remains competitive for customers who prefer online ordering, warehouse shopping, and its Executive membership delivery credit.

The best option depends on local service availability and how frequently a household orders groceries online.

Costco vs. Sam’s Club: Return Policies and Customer Satisfaction

Return policies can influence the overall value of a warehouse membership, particularly when purchasing expensive electronics, appliances, furniture, or household products.

Costco Return Policy

Costco is known for its satisfaction guarantee on many products. Members can return eligible merchandise at warehouse locations or initiate returns for online purchases.

However, certain categories have specific restrictions.

For example, computers, televisions, major appliances, and selected electronics are generally subject to a 90-day return window.

Costco also has separate rules for items such as jewelry, tires, and other specialized products.

Customers should review the official Costco return policy before purchasing expensive merchandise.

Sam’s Club Return Policy

Sam’s Club promotes a 100% satisfaction guarantee and offers returns on many products.

However, return eligibility depends on the merchandise category, purchase history, and applicable restrictions.

Some products have specific return deadlines or conditions, so shoppers should check the policy before purchasing high-value items.

Which Retailer Has the Better Return Policy?

Costco is particularly attractive to shoppers who value its established satisfaction guarantee.

Sam’s Club also offers a customer-focused return experience.

Rather than assuming every item can be returned without restrictions, customers should review the applicable rules for the product they intend to purchase.

Pharmacy, Optical and Healthcare Benefits Compared

Both retailers provide more than groceries and household essentials.

Their pharmacy, optical, and healthcare-related services can contribute to the overall value of a membership.

Costco Pharmacy

Costco Pharmacy offers prescription services and medication savings.

Its pharmacy is available at participating warehouse locations, and eligible customers can explore prescription pricing and other services.

An important consideration is that Costco’s pharmacy services have specific access rules, and some prescription services are available to nonmembers where permitted by law.

Sam’s Club Pharmacy

Sam’s Club offers prescription services, pharmacy savings, and additional benefits for Plus members.

The retailer advertises savings on hundreds of generic medications, with selected generic prescriptions available at particularly low prices.

Plus members also receive additional benefits, including $0 prescriptions on 10 selected generic medications, subject to eligibility and program terms.

Which Is Better for Healthcare Savings?

Sam’s Club Plus may be attractive to households that regularly use its pharmacy and optical benefits.

Costco is also worth considering for customers who want access to its pharmacy, optical department, and other healthcare-related services.

The smartest approach is to compare the actual prescription prices and service availability for your household’s needs.

Costco vs. Sam’s Club: Store Locations and Availability Across the United States

Store availability is an important consideration because a lower membership fee does not necessarily translate into savings if the nearest warehouse is inconvenient.

Costco and Sam’s Club operate extensive warehouse networks throughout the United States, but their locations are not identical.

Some cities have multiple warehouses from both retailers, while other communities have better access to one than the other.

Before purchasing a membership, shoppers should consider:

• Distance from home to the nearest warehouse.
• Availability of gasoline stations.
• Store operating hours.
• Pharmacy and optical department availability.
• Curbside pickup and delivery coverage.
• Traffic and parking conditions.
• Availability of preferred products.

Why Local Availability Matters

A shopper who lives close to Costco but must drive significantly farther to reach Sam’s Club may find that Costco provides better overall value.

The opposite can also be true.

Fuel savings, travel time, and convenience should be included when calculating the real cost of membership.

Both retailers provide online warehouse locators that allow customers to check nearby locations and available services.

Costco vs. Sam’s Club Food Courts: What Should Customers Expect?

Food courts are another recognizable part of the warehouse shopping experience.

Costco has developed a strong reputation for its food court, including its famous hot dog and soda combination, pizza, and other inexpensive prepared foods.

Sam’s Club also operates an in-store café offering popular food options, including its hot dog and drink combination.

Both retailers use their food offerings as an additional attraction for shoppers.

However, menu availability, prices, and access rules can vary by location.

For customers who regularly purchase lunch or snacks while shopping, the food court can become a small but meaningful part of the overall membership experience.

Costco vs. Sam’s Club for Families: Which Saves More Money?

Families purchasing groceries and household essentials in bulk can benefit from either membership.

However, their shopping habits determine which retailer delivers the most value.

Costco May Be Better for Families That:

• Purchase organic groceries regularly.
• Prefer Kirkland Signature products.
• Buy meat, seafood, and prepared foods in bulk.
• Purchase electronics and appliances.
• Use Costco Travel and other services.
• Can take advantage of Executive membership rewards.

Sam’s Club May Be Better for Families That:

• Purchase large quantities of everyday groceries.
• Prefer convenient curbside pickup.
• Frequently use Scan & Go.
• Purchase Member’s Mark household products.
• Regularly use pharmacy and optical services.
• Can benefit from Plus membership and Walmart+.

An Important Consideration for Smaller Households

Buying in bulk does not automatically mean saving money.

A household of one or two people may struggle to use large packages before food expires.

For these shoppers, the most important calculation is the unit price and the amount of merchandise they can realistically consume.

For example, purchasing a large package of fresh produce may offer a lower price per pound but create unnecessary waste if much of it spoils.

The same consideration applies to dairy products, bakery items, and other perishable groceries.

How Much Can You Save With Costco or Sam’s Club?

There is no guaranteed annual savings figure because shopping habits and local prices vary.

However, shoppers can estimate whether a membership makes financial sense.

Consider a household that spends $300 per month on eligible warehouse purchases.

Its annual qualifying spending would be $3,600.

At a 2% reward rate, that would generate approximately $72 in annual rewards, assuming all purchases qualify.

This illustrates why premium memberships may appeal to frequent shoppers.

However, the rewards are not identical in every situation. Costco and Sam’s Club have different qualifying-purchase rules, reward limits, and redemption conditions.

Shoppers should also account for the membership fee before treating rewards as actual savings.

Costco vs. Sam’s Club: Which Is Better for Electronics and Appliances?

Both retailers sell televisions, laptops, computers, kitchen appliances, and other electronics.

Costco is particularly attractive to customers who value its product selection, warranty-related benefits on qualifying purchases, and customer service.

Sam’s Club also offers competitive electronics pricing and promotional discounts.

The best choice depends on the specific product.

Before buying an expensive television or appliance, compare:

• Exact model numbers.
• Product specifications.
• Included accessories.
• Delivery and installation costs.
• Manufacturer warranties.
• Return deadlines.
• Promotional discounts.
• Extended protection options.

A lower advertised price does not necessarily represent the better deal if installation, delivery, or warranty coverage differs.

Costco vs. Sam’s Club: Advantages and Disadvantages

Costco Advantages

• Strong Kirkland Signature product selection.
• Higher maximum Executive membership reward.
• Attractive selection of premium and specialty products.
• Costco Travel benefits.
• Established satisfaction guarantee.
• Broad range of warehouse services.

Costco Disadvantages

• Higher annual membership fees.
• Busy warehouses during peak shopping periods.
• No equivalent general Scan & Go shopping feature.
• Some online and delivery prices may differ from warehouse prices.

Sam’s Club Advantages

• Lower standard and premium membership fees.
• Scan & Go mobile checkout.
• Free curbside pickup on eligible orders.
• Member’s Mark private-label products.
• Plus membership rewards.
• Walmart+ included with Plus.

Sam’s Club Disadvantages

• Lower maximum annual Plus membership reward.
• Product selection varies by location.
• Some premium benefits require an upgrade.
• Delivery and shipping eligibility restrictions apply.

What Should Shoppers Watch in 2027?

Warehouse retailers continue to compete through membership benefits, private-label products, digital shopping services, and delivery options.

For consumers, several developments will be worth watching.

1. Membership Price Changes

Both companies periodically review membership pricing.

Sam’s Club increased its annual fees in May 2026, while Costco’s most recent general membership price increase took effect in September 2024.

There is no confirmed universal membership price increase for 2027 that shoppers should assume is coming.

2. Digital Shopping Improvements

Scan & Go has helped Sam’s Club differentiate its shopping experience.

Costco’s digital shopping and delivery services will remain important areas for customers to monitor as competition between warehouse retailers develops.

3. Private-Label Product Competition

Kirkland Signature and Member’s Mark will continue to be important parts of their respective retailers’ value propositions.

Customers should pay attention to product quality, package sizes, and unit pricing rather than relying exclusively on brand recognition.

4. Delivery and Membership Bundles

Sam’s Club’s inclusion of Walmart+ with Plus makes its premium membership particularly interesting.

Costco’s Executive benefits, including its qualifying purchase rewards and monthly delivery credit, provide a different value proposition.

For shoppers, the important question is whether these bundled benefits actually reduce their annual household expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions About Costco vs. Sam’s Club

1. Is Costco cheaper than Sam’s Club in 2026?

Not necessarily. Sam’s Club has lower standard and premium membership fees, but grocery prices vary by product and location. AARP’s September 2026 grocery comparison found that Sam’s Club had the lowest overall basket price among the three warehouse retailers examined.

2. Which is better, Costco or Sam’s Club?

Costco may be better for shoppers who prefer Kirkland Signature products, premium merchandise, and a higher potential Executive reward. Sam’s Club may be better for shoppers who prioritize lower membership fees, Scan & Go, curbside pickup, and Walmart+ benefits.

3. Is Sam’s Club membership cheaper than Costco?

Yes. As of November 2026, Sam’s Club Club membership costs $60 annually, compared with $65 for Costco Gold Star. Sam’s Club Plus costs $120, compared with $130 for Costco Executive.

4. Does Costco or Sam’s Club offer better cash back?

Both premium memberships offer 2% rewards on qualifying purchases. Costco Executive has a maximum annual reward of $1,250, while Sam’s Club Plus has a maximum annual Sam’s Cash reward of $750.

5. Can you shop at Costco without a membership?

Costco generally requires a membership to shop in its warehouses. However, certain services and purchases have exceptions, including some pharmacy services where permitted by law. Online shopping access also depends on the product and applicable membership rules.

6. Can you shop at Sam’s Club without a membership?

Sam’s Club generally requires membership for warehouse shopping and member-only pricing. Certain services, purchases, and access arrangements may have exceptions, depending on the applicable policies.

7. Which warehouse club has better gas prices?

Neither retailer is consistently cheaper nationwide. Gas prices depend on location, fuel grade, local taxes, and market conditions. Comparing prices at nearby stations is the best way to determine which offers better savings.

8. Is Costco Executive membership worth the extra $65?

It can be worthwhile for shoppers who spend enough on qualifying purchases. Approximately $3,250 in eligible annual purchases generates $65 in rewards, matching the additional upgrade fee. Other Executive benefits can provide additional value.

9. Is Sam’s Club Plus worth the extra $60?

Sam’s Club Plus can be worthwhile for frequent shoppers who use its 2% Sam’s Cash rewards, shipping, delivery, pharmacy savings, early shopping, and Walmart+ benefits. Approximately $3,000 in eligible annual purchases generates $60 in Sam’s Cash.

10. Can a household have both Costco and Sam’s Club memberships?

Yes. There is no general requirement to choose only one warehouse retailer. A household can maintain memberships at both companies and compare prices before purchasing. However, the combined membership fees should be justified by actual savings and benefits.

11. Which is better for groceries, Kirkland Signature or Member’s Mark?

Both private-label brands offer competitive products. Kirkland Signature has a strong presence in groceries, organic products, and household essentials, while Member’s Mark offers alternatives across groceries, cleaning products, and everyday household categories. The better choice depends on individual products and prices.

12. Which warehouse membership is best for a small household?

A small household should compare package sizes, expiration dates, and unit prices before joining. A lower price per unit does not always produce savings if products go unused or expire.

Final Verdict: Costco vs. Sam’s Club Comparison 2026

The competition between Costco and Sam’s Club is not simply about which retailer charges less for membership. Both offer substantial value, but they serve slightly different shopping preferences.

Costco is a strong choice for shoppers who prioritize Kirkland Signature products, premium merchandise, Costco Travel, and higher potential Executive rewards. Its product selection and additional services can make the higher membership fee worthwhile for frequent customers.

Sam’s Club is a strong choice for shoppers who prioritize affordability and convenience. Its lower membership fees, Scan & Go checkout, free curbside pickup, Member’s Mark products, and Walmart+ inclusion with Plus create an attractive package.

For households that shop regularly, the best approach is to compare the prices of their most frequently purchased products, calculate potential membership rewards, and check the distance to nearby warehouses.

Ultimately, the best warehouse club is the one that consistently saves your household more money without sacrificing the products, services, and convenience you value most.

Do you prefer Costco or Sam’s Club for everyday shopping? Share your experience and tell us which warehouse club gives your family the better value.