12 Groceries That Are More Expensive at Costco

As we all strive to be savvy shoppers, finding the best deals for our grocery needs is paramount. While warehouse clubs like Costco are often viewed as the ultimate hub for savings, it’s not always the case for every item on your shopping list. Knowing which items to grab and which to pass can save you substantial amounts of money.

This list is based on real-world market trends, data analysis, and insights from experts in the retail industry. We’ve compared prices at Costco with other popular grocery and online stores to provide you with accurate information. Expect to get insights into 12 groceries that are surprisingly more expensive at Costco and why that’s the case.

1. Kirkland Signature Spices

Costco’s private label, Kirkland Signature, is often praised for its quality and value. However, their line of spices may not be the best deal you can find. Even though the containers are larger, the price per ounce can be more expensive than other retailers. This is why shoppers may overlook them in favor of smaller and cheaper alternatives.

The spice trend is definitely on the rise, with more people cooking at home due to the pandemic. However, buying a large container of spice that you don’t use often can lead to waste, as spices lose their potency over time. You can find better value and fresher options by buying smaller quantities from other retailers such as Walmart or Amazon. Check out this Consumer Reports article for more information on buying spices.

2. Name-Brand Cereal

Name-brand cereal is a breakfast staple in many households, but buying it from Costco might not be the wisest choice. While the boxes are larger, the price per ounce is often higher than what you can find at your local grocery store or online. This is why some shoppers may choose to buy their favorite cereal elsewhere.

With the rise of online grocery shopping, it’s easier than ever to compare prices and find the best deal. Additionally, grocery stores frequently put cereal on sale, making it a much better value than buying from Costco. See this Business Insider article for more insights into Costco pricing.

3. Fresh Produce

Costco’s fresh produce is known for its high quality, but the prices can be higher than other grocery stores. Additionally, the quantities are often larger than what a typical household can consume before it goes bad, leading to potential waste.

The trend of buying locally sourced, organic produce is growing, leading many shoppers to prefer farmers markets or other grocers over Costco. Plus, waste reduction is a key focus for many households today. Read more about the cost comparison and waste impact in this Washington Post article.

4. Diapers

Diapers are a big expense for families with young children, and while Costco’s Kirkland Signature diapers are known for their quality, they are often more expensive per diaper compared to other brands at different retailers.

With many families looking for ways to save money, finding the best value for diapers is crucial. Additionally, buying in bulk isn’t always the best choice, especially if your child is growing quickly and may outgrow the size before you use all the diapers. Here’s an article that compares diaper prices and brands.

5. Laundry Detergent

While buying laundry detergent in bulk from Costco may seem like a good deal, it can actually cost more per load compared to other brands at different retailers. Plus, the large size can be inconvenient to store and use.

With the rise of eco-friendly and concentrated laundry detergents, many consumers are switching to smaller, more efficient options. Plus, detergent has a shelf life and can lose effectiveness over time, making the large size a potential waste. Check out this Consumer Reports article for more information on choosing laundry detergent.

6. Books and DVDs

Costco offers a selection of popular books and DVDs, but these items can often be found for less at other retailers or online. While the convenience of picking up a new book or movie while grocery shopping is appealing, you might be paying more for that convenience.

With the ongoing shift towards digital media consumption, physical books and DVDs are becoming less popular. Online platforms often offer better deals, making it more cost-effective to shop elsewhere. This MarketWatch article provides more insights into items that are more expensive at warehouse clubs.

7. Condiments

While buying condiments in bulk from Costco might seem like a savvy move, it can often lead to waste. Products like ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise have a limited shelf life once opened, and the large sizes from Costco may not be used up before they expire.

Food waste is a significant issue, and consumers are becoming more conscious of it. Smaller sizes from other retailers might be a better choice to reduce waste and save money. This NBC News article discusses ways to reduce food waste.

8. Soda

Buying soda in bulk from Costco can be more expensive per can compared to sales at local grocery stores. While the convenience of having a large quantity on hand may be appealing, smart shoppers know to stock up during grocery store sales for the best value.

With the rise of health-conscious consumers, many are reducing their soda intake or switching to healthier alternatives. Plus, grocery store sales on soda are frequent, making it easier and cheaper to buy elsewhere. Check out this Business Insider article for more tips on what to buy at Costco.

9. Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must-have item, but buying it from Costco might not be the best value. The store often sells it in multi-packs, which can be more expensive per ounce than individual bottles at other retailers.

With the importance of sun protection becoming more widely recognized, consumers are using more sunscreen than ever. But sunscreen has a shelf life and can lose effectiveness over time, making bulk purchases a potential waste. This FDA guide provides more information on choosing and using sunscreen.

10. Printer Ink

Printer ink is known for being pricey, and while Costco does offer it, you might find better deals elsewhere. Online retailers and office supply stores often have sales and rewards programs that can lead to significant savings.

With many people working and studying from home, the demand for printer ink has increased. But the price per cartridge can vary widely, so it pays to shop around. This PCMag article provides tips on how to save money on ink.

11. Paper Products

It’s tempting to stock up on paper products like toilet paper and paper towels at Costco, but you may be paying more per sheet compared to other retailers. Plus, storing these bulky items can be a challenge in smaller homes.

As consumers become more eco-conscious, many are reducing their use of disposable paper products. Plus, with online shopping, it’s easy to compare prices and buy when sales occur. This Business Insider article provides more insights on what not to buy at Costco.

12. Canned Goods

While buying canned goods in bulk from Costco may seem like a good deal, they can actually be cheaper at other grocery stores, especially during sales. The large quantities can also lead to potential waste if you can’t consume them before the expiration date.

With an increased focus on reducing food waste and saving money, savvy shoppers are choosing to buy canned goods elsewhere. This AOL article provides more information on items to avoid buying at Costco.