AARP Hearing Center
With Costco raising its membership fees on September 1 and cracking down on nonmembers using other people’s cards to shop, it’s a good time to review what the three major warehouse clubs charge and have to offer.
There are certainly differences between Costco Wholesale, Sam’s Club and BJ’s Wholesale Club, as you’ll learn below, but in the end geography could be the most important factor in selecting which club to join, says Kristen Gall, a retail expert and president of Rakuten Rewards, a company that offers cash back, deals and shopping rewards. “Location is probably the most important thing,” Gall says. “Go with the one that’s easiest to get in and out of.”
That said, if you’re lucky enough to live in an area with multiple warehouse clubs to choose from, you have some choices to make. Read on for a breakdown on what each club offers its members.
Costco Wholesale
Locations: Costco has more than 800 locations worldwide, including 618 in 46 U.S. states and Puerto Rico.
Membership cost: $60/year for Gold Star membership; $120/year for Executive membership, which includes 2 percent cash back on purchases and some additional discounts. That will change on September 1, when Costco raises prices on its Gold Star membership by $5, and Executive membership by $10, the first time in seven years. Both levels include two membership cards. In addition to personal memberships, Costco offers business memberships that permit purchases for resale.
What’s notable: Costco is cracking down on nonmembers using members’ cards to shop by installing scanners at entrances to all stores. Once inside, bulk shoppers will find a wide selection of trendy, gourmet food products, including some that are exclusive to its Kirkland Signature store brand. Costco also stocks more organic items than its competitors, says Julie Ramhold, a consumer analyst with DealNews. “If you’re very conscious about what you’re eating and want to make healthier choices, you’ll have more options at Costco.”
Extra amenities: Depending on your Costco location, you may find the following on-site:
- Gas pumps
- Auto services
- Hearing aid services
- Optometry services
- Pharmacy
Members can also access the following services:
- Travel planning assistance
- Home improvement services, such as carpet installation and cabinet refacing
- Mortgage services
- Insurance sales
What you won’t find: Curbside pickup for groceries. While you can order online and pick up a handful of items, such as jewelry and electronics, at the store, Costco does not offer this service for food products. Sam’s Club and BJ’s do.
Sam’s Club
Locations: This Walmart subsidiary has nearly 600 stores throughout the United States and Puerto Rico.
Membership cost: $50/year for Club membership; $110/year for Plus membership, which includes 2 percent cash back on purchases along with savings at the pharmacy and optical center. Both levels include two membership cards. An add-on membership costs $45.
What’s notable: A line-free experience. You can use the Scan & Go app to check out items as you put them into your cart. Then pay and simply show your receipt as you leave the store. (BJ’s has a similar app, but it’s limited to 20 items at a time.)
Extra amenities: Depending on your Sam’s Club location, you may find the following on-site:
- Gas pumps
- Auto services
- Hearing aid services
- Optometry services
- Pharmacy
Members can also access the following services:
- Travel planning assistance
- Home improvement services, including security system installation and pest control
- Auto services
What you won’t find: The best cash-back offer. Sam’s Club caps cash back at $500 per year, the same as BJ’s. That compares to a $1,000 cap at Costco.
BJ’s Wholesale Club
Locations: BJ’s operates 215 stores, primarily on the East Coast.
Membership cost: $55/year for Club Card membership; $110/year for the Club+ Card membership, which includes 2 percent cash back and additional travel savings. Membership is for two people, but you can add members for $30 each. There are also discounted membership fees for members of the military and veterans (subject to verification). In addition, BJ’s offers business memberships — also either $55 or $110 annually — that permit purchases for resale.
