This post has been updated since it was originally published on January 30, 2022.
There are many reasons why people love shopping at Costco and similar wholesale retailers. These membership-only stores allow customers to buy items in bulk, and it often appears like cheaper, more bang-for-your-buck deals are in store. After scrolling through customer reviews, Reddit users’ experiences and similar store prices, the following 4 items may be considered overpriced at Costco and something to look out for when shopping for them.
1. Chicken Breasts
When comparing boneless chicken breast costs, Costco's are pricier than ALDI's options, for example. At Costco, Kirkland Signature “Air-Chilled” Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts cost approximately $3.75 per pound, while Kirkwood Fresh Family Pack Chicken Breasts cost about $1.89 per pound at ALDI.
Overall, Costco appeals to shoppers nationwide for so many reasons and the major retailer does offer convenient deals and discounts for members. This doesn't mean that every item is the cheapest option at Costco, so for these 4 items, it might help you save more money to look for them elsewhere.
2. Spare Ribs
As one Reddit user and Costco shopper writes, "their fresh meat and fish prices are way above what you would pay in a grocery store especially if you shop the sales (which I almost exclusively do)." They are referring to the steep spare ribs prices at Costco, where the Kirkland Signature St. Louis Pork Spare Ribs are sold for $6.21 per pound. At grocery stores like Fry’s, they can cost anywhere from $2.79 to $4.99 per pound, a better deal in the long run.
3. Organic Milks
At Costco, organic milk can cost more per gallon compared to other retailers. For example, Kirkland Signature Organic 1% Low Fat Milk costs $13.67 for a three-pack of half-gallon containers, and Good & Gather Organic Milk at Target costs $3.89 per half-gallon, for a total of $11.67. Although their milks come in convenient packaging and they also sell non-dairy options, for the same amount of milk, you could be paying more at Costco than other stores.
4. Avocados
It's hard to find cheap avocados in general, considering they require a massive amount of water. This means that they can't just grow anywhere—many of them are produced in and imported from Mexico and Central America. At Costco, however, they cost $1.60 each — or almost $10 for six. Two bags of organic hass avocados (a total of eight avocados) can be obtained at Target for the same price, making Costco the pricier retailer for them.
5. Cereal
Cereal isn't the healthiest breakfast food around, but that's not the only reason you may want to refrain from buying it at Costco. According to Eating Well food writer Su-Jit Lin, large bags of cereal cost anywhere from $7 to $14 at the warehouse store. You're likely to find cheaper options at your local supermarket, especially when you apply coupons and take advantage of sales. "I’ve used this multi-savings method to get name-brand cereals for $1.50 a box with the purchase of six boxes," wrote Lin. Noted!
6. Sandwich Bread
Costco certainly has some tasty bread options. But if you want to save the most money possible on your sandwich bread, Lin says you might want to stick to your local supermarket. Costco sells double-packs of loaves, which sounds like a good deal—but you could find cheaper buy one, get one deals at stores like Kroger and Publix. Freeze one loaf to avoid molding!
7. Salad Kits
In addition to the fact that several salad kits were recently recalled, the price of the options products at Costco is another reason to be wary. Lin notes that the large, bagged salad kits at Costco cost around $7-$9, which may not be worth it if you're not going to eat them all. Instead, you can find smaller, more affordable kits on sale at supermarkets for just around $3, ultimately saving money.
8. Herbs and Spices
Spices are a great way to, well, spice up your meals. They're a staple in many kitchens, which is why it's important to ensure you're choosing the most affordable options. Lin writes that the bulk spices at Costco may not give you the most bang for your buck—because they're likely to expire before you finish them all. Instead, consider buying smaller varieties that you're likely to work through before they lose their aroma and flavor.
9. Canned Soup
Canned soup is a great, convenient meal to have on hand. While Costco offers some great varieties, Lin says you should keep an eye on sales at your local supermarkets, as this is likely to help you save money in the long run. You may be able to get three cans for $5 or less—and you'll find a wider selection than you will at the warehouse.
Happy shopping!
