Planning a trip to Costco means understanding how much a membership actually costs and what you receive in return. The right membership level can align with your household needs, shopping frequency, and budget.
Below you will find pricing options broken out by type, a detailed comparison of membership benefits, answers to common questions, and practical recommendations for choosing the best option.
| Membership Type | Annual Fee | Renewal Fee | Valid For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold Star | $60 | $60 | 12 months from activation |
| Plus | $120 | $120 | 12 months from activation |
| Business Gold Star | $60 | $60 | 12 months from activation |
| Kirkland Signature Card | $0 | N/A | Store-only card, not a membership |
Cost Structure of Costco Memberships
Annual Fees by Membership Type
The basic price for a Costco membership is either $60 or $120 per year, depending on the card you select. Both options renew automatically for the same amount after twelve months unless you cancel.
Gold Star Membership Details
What the $60 Membership Includes
The Gold Star membership is the most common option for individual and household shoppers. It provides access to all warehouse locations and the bulk of in-store items.
- Entry into any Costco warehouse
- Ability to shop in all departments
- Renewal at the same $60 rate each year
Plus Membership Features
Extra Benefits of the $120 Option
The Plus membership costs twice as much but adds benefits that can justify the higher price for certain shoppers and families.
- All Gold Star benefits
- Executive Shop Card for ordering online
- Eligible for additional cash rewards on qualified purchases
Business Gold Star Membership Overview
Separate Renewal Terms and Eligibility
The Business Gold Star membership also carries a $60 annual fee, but it is designed for business owners and operations rather than personal shopping.
- Issued to eligible business owners
- Requires renewal with documentation each year
- Online purchasing access similar to Gold Star
Choosing the Right Membership for You
- Calculate your expected annual spending to see if cash rewards from Plus cover the higher fee
- Confirm whether you need online ordering, which may favor the Plus option
- Verify household shopping habits to decide between Gold Star and Plus
- Business owners should confirm documentation requirements before applying for Business Gold Star
FAQ
Reader questions
Is it worth getting the Plus membership instead of Gold Star?
Choose Plus if you frequently buy larger quantities online and want access to cash rewards, because the extra savings on purchases and convenience can offset the higher fee.
How do I qualify for the Business Gold Star membership?
You must have an active business with a valid tax ID and meet Costco’s eligibility requirements, after which you can obtain the same $60 annual membership designed for business use.
Does the membership ever go on sale?
Costco occasionally offers renewal discounts or promotional savings, and in some locations new memberships may be available at reduced fees during limited-time campaigns.
How long is the membership valid once I pay?
All memberships are active for 12 months from the date of activation, after which the same renewal fee applies unless you choose to cancel or qualify for a different card type.