Why Become A Member

The History of Costco

The company’s first location, opened in 1976 under the Price Club name, was in a converted airplane hangar on Morena Boulevard in San Diego. The company found it could achieve far greater buying power by serving small businesses and a select audience of non-business members. With that, the growth of the warehouse club industry was off and running. In 1983, the first Costco warehouse location opened in Seattle. Costco became the first company to grow from zero to $3 billion in sales in less than six years. When Costco and Price Club merged in 1993 to become PriceCostco, it had 206 locations generating $16 billion in annual sales.

Our operating philosophy has remained simple: Keep costs down and pass the savings on to our members. Our large membership base and tremendous buying power, combined with our never-ending quest for efficiency, result in the lowest possible prices for our members. Since resuming the Costco name in 1997, the company has grown worldwide. During the past fiscal year (ended September 3, 2017), total sales were $126.1 billion. For additional information, request a Costco Story and/or a My Costco Services guide when you visit any Costco membership counter.

Shop Confidently

We are committed to offering the best value to our members, with a risk-free 100% satisfaction guarantee on both your membership and merchandise. If you have questions about your membership or products you’ve purchased at Costco, please visit the membership counter at your local Costco or contact our Member Service Center. For more information read our return policy and Member Privileges & Conditions.

Select which ​type of membership is best for you: Gold Star or Business. Costco members ​also ​can upgrade to Executive Membership and enjoy an annual 2% Reward (up to $1,000) on qualified Costco, Costco.com, and Costco Travel purchases. Executive Members also receive additional benefits and greater discounts on our suite of Costco Services, and extra benefits on select Costco Travel products.
Terms, conditions and exclusions apply. See the membership counter for details.

How Do I Join?

You can purchase a membership online or join at your local Costco. To join online, simply select a membership type and add it to your cart. Once you’ve made your purchase, your new member number(s) will be emailed to you. Just bring your email to any Costco membership counter to pick up your cards.

We Value Our Members

You’ll appreciate the quality and value of the products you find at Costco. That’s our promise to you. If we fail to deliver on that promise, we’ll refund your money. It’s that simple.