Inflation is on the rise, and it’s taking a serious toll on the fast food budgets and shopping carts of many Americans. In the age of rising prices and economic uncertainties, even the stalwart Costco shoppers are feeling the pinch.
Although Costco is typically known for great items at great prices, it turns out that there are a few things you might be better off buying elsewhere. A recent TikTok by user @sidemoneytom sheds light on the items he has bid farewell to at the popular warehouse store due to increased inflation, sparking a wave of reactions from users who agree that “Costco is going downhill.” Below, we’ll round up the once-beloved staples that have fallen out of favor due to their rising price tags.
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1. Idaho Spuds Hash Brown Potatoes - $8.99
Who doesn't love has browns—especially when they're conveniently packaged and easy to make" Unfortunately, though, @sidemoneytom claims that these Idaho Spuds Hash Brown Potatoes are no longer worth the price. "We used to love buying these things when they were like $5.49, but honestly, nowadays we just make them with real potatoes," he says. That's probably better for your wallet.
2. Tasty Bite Organic Madras Lentils - $15.99
Lentils are one great source of plant-based protein. Buying them in bulk from Costco can sound like a great idea to someone who frequently cooks with these tasty legumes, but unfortunately, the price tag has turned Tom away. "We used to love buying this stuff," he says. "But these guys you used to be able to get on sale for $6.99. Now they want $15.99. Unbelievable. I don’t think we’ll ever buy that again."
3. Mobil 1 Synthetic Oil - $43.49
Oil is certainly a necessity, and if you want the most bang for your buck, buying in bulk may seem like the best option. However, Tom urges his followers to avoid buying from Costco and look elsewhere. "Used to be able to get this oil for regular price, around $30," he says. "Now it's $43.49." Where else should you go? According to him, Walmart. "You can still get 5 quarts at Walmart for $27 regular price and $23 on rollback. Do the math. This is $7.28 per quart." Noted!
4. Kirkland Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil - $16.99
Olive oil isn't only delicious, but it's also packed with health benefits—not to mention a staple in most kitchens. But if you're used to stocking up on this essential at Costco, Tom recommends reconsidering. "We used to buy our olive oil here but it turns out at this price, $8.49 per liter, you can go to Trader Joe’s, you can even go to Winco, maybe Safeway, and get cheaper, better quality oil." TJ's, here we come!
5. Kerrygold Irish Butter - $6.99
If you want to talk about staples, few things are as essential as butter. But according to Tom, Costco isn't the best place to get it. "We used to always buy our butter here, but ever since the pandemic the price has gone up and it just hasn’t gone back down," he says. 1.5 pounds of Kerrygold Irish Butter will cost you around $7 at Costco these days.
6. Kirkland Signature Tortilla Strips - $5.69
In addition to great deals, Costco is well-known for tasty Kirkland Signature snacks. Unfortunately, though, Tom says these Tortilla Strips are no longer a good deal. "We used to love buying these when they were $2.79, but honestly it’s probably for the best," he says, likely referring to the fact that these delicious chips are easy to over-indulge in. By skipping these, you'll be doing both your bank account and your waistline a favor.
7. Bread
We all need to buy bread, and Tom says his family used to rely on Costco to stock up. However, the rising prices have led him to look elsewhere for this carby kitchen staple. "We used to buy all of our bread here but now, honestly, they want $3 to $4 per loaf just for white bread. Not worth it anymore."
Comments agree that Costco is getting pricey
Although Costco is widely beloved amongst frugal shoppers, it seems that the tide is turning for some. Many commenters chimed in below @sidemoneytom's TikTok to express their own complaints with the warehouse store's prices.
"I moved to Sam's," one wrote. "Costco is NOT saving me any money."
"I agree. Costco is no longer saving me money if the prices are cheaper somewhere else," someone else said.
"Yeah..Costco is going downhill," another commenter agreed. "Had no idea the oil went up that much. It was $8-$9. Idk why I just renewed my membership." And membership prices are likely rising soon, too.
What do you think? Are you still a Costco die-hard, or is it no longer worth it? Let us know in the comments!
