Costco is one of the best places in Canada to save money, and one of the easiest places to spend more than you meant to. The members who get the most out of it know how the membership pays for itself, what the price tags mean, and how the return and price adjustment policies work.
Costco membership: Gold Star or Executive?
| Membership | Annual fee | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Gold Star | $65 | Membership card plus a free household card for someone at the same address |
| Executive | $130 | Everything in Gold Star, plus a 2% reward on eligible Costco and Costco.ca purchases, up to $1,250 a year |
Is Executive worth it? The extra $65 pays for itself once you spend about $3,250 a year, because 2% of $3,250 is $65. At around $6,500 a year, the reward covers the entire Executive fee. If you shop at Costco every week or two, it usually makes sense. If you go a few times a year, Gold Star is enough.
Costco’s membership has long come with a satisfaction guarantee, and members have been able to ask for the Executive upgrade cost back if the reward didn’t cover it. Confirm the current terms at the membership counter.
What Costco price tags mean
Costco doesn’t publish an official key, but shoppers and employees have long reported that the last digits of the price tell you something, and the same codes are used in Canada:
- Ends in .99: the regular price.
- Ends in .97: a markdown or clearance price.
- Ends in .00 or .88: a manager’s markdown, often on returns, floor models or the last few units in that warehouse.
- Asterisk (*) in the corner: the warehouse isn’t planning to reorder it. If you like it, buy it now.
Markdowns are set by warehouse, so the same item can be cheaper at one Costco than another.
Costco’s price adjustment
Costco doesn’t price match other stores, but it does offer a price adjustment: if Costco’s own price drops within 30 days of your purchase, including when an item shows up in the next coupon book, you can get the difference back.
- Warehouse purchases: bring your receipt (or your membership card) to the membership counter.
- Costco.ca orders: contact Costco.ca customer service.
Keep an eye on the monthly member savings book for things you bought recently. It’s the most common way people claim an adjustment. Our price matching guide covers how other stores handle this.
Costco’s return policy
Costco is famous for its return policy. Most items can be returned at any time if you’re not satisfied, with or without a receipt; a receipt just makes it faster. The main exceptions:
- Electronics such as TVs, computers, tablets, cameras, smartwatches and drones, plus major appliances, must be returned within 90 days.
- Cell phones depend on the carrier contract.
- A few other categories have their own rules. If you’re unsure, ask at the membership counter before you buy.
Online orders can be returned at a warehouse or through Costco.ca.
How to save more at Costco
- Shop with a list. The treasure-hunt layout is designed to tempt you. The savings come from buying what you’d buy anyway, in bulk, for less.
- Check the unit price on the shelf tag. Bulk isn’t always cheaper than a grocery store sale.
- Only buy bulk perishables you’ll use before they go off, or freeze.
- Try Kirkland Signature. Costco’s own brand is often the best value in the store.
- Fill up at Costco gas if there’s one nearby. It’s for members, and usually among the cheapest fuel in the area.
- Compare online and in-store prices. Costco.ca and warehouse prices and selection can differ.
- Use the coupon book. Monthly member savings apply automatically at the till, and they’re your trigger for price adjustments.
Get Costco deals sent to you
We post Costco deals and markdowns when we spot them. Set up Deal Alerts for “Costco” or the items you buy there, and we’ll email you when there’s a deal.
FAQ
How much is a Costco membership in Canada?
Gold Star is $65 a year and Executive is $130 a year. Executive adds a 2% reward on eligible purchases, up to $1,250 a year.
What does .97 mean at Costco?
A price ending in .97 usually means the item has been marked down. An asterisk on the tag means the warehouse isn’t planning to restock it.
Does Costco price match?
No. Costco only adjusts to its own lower price within 30 days of your purchase.
Can I return a TV to Costco?
Yes, within 90 days of purchase. Most electronics and major appliances have a 90-day return window.
Last checked October 2026. Costco can change its fees and policies, so confirm current terms at your warehouse or on Costco.ca.
