Since I go to Costco so often and it's been years since I've updated my review, I surmised that it was time for me to give my two cents about Costco and the value of their membership.
Obviously I continue to frequent this merchant regularly. But regularly multiple years ago is not what's regular for me now. Used to be that we'd be in Costco every other weekend. Now it's every THIRD weekend. That, in and of itself, should be an indicator of what they were and what they are now.
Gas: used to be that Costco was a full dime or more cheaper per gallon on regular. Now it's about 3 or 4 cents, depending on the station you find. Meh. We won't drive here just to fill up any more.
Hard goods: computer paper is still a bargain (since they carry the 24-lb. weight Xerox paper that I like), but most other computer supplies that I used to buy are extraordinarily expensive (printer cartridge bundles, for example). Limited selection of peripherals compared to several years ago. Television selection is vast - especially if you want a HUGE one. Since I'm not in the market for a 60+ inch screen TV, not quite sure of the price competitiveness. Batteries can still be had for a good price, and every once in a while you'll see a featured item (battery-operated lantern, for instance) at a great price - real handy during hurricane season.
Bakery: selection of baked goods has diminished, so I'm a bit disappointed here.
Beer/Wine: definitely a hit-or-miss. Wine is a total wash (in my opinion - haven't bought wine here in years), but some good brands and specials on beer can be had if you happen to be lucky enough to be there when they've got it and when the selection is robust.
Meat: pass it up. You'll do better at Sprouts or a similar market. Only meat I purchase here now is their Italian sausages (which are, indeed, far superior to anything I've found in a local store). Everything else is MEH. Including their fish, which is often tasteless, tough and very disappointing.
Cheese: Oh, yes! You can get some great cheeses here. Pecorino Romano in particular. Big section of the wheel (so you'll have lots of cheese!), but it is by far the best I've tasted.
Fruits/Veggies: marginal. Last time we bought a 6-pack of Romaine hearts, half of them were soggy and black when we opened it the next day. Dumped them all and vowed never to purchase them again. Spinach is still a good price, but most other fruits and veggies can be had at better prices and with better quality at your local store.
Grocery items: Here's where Costco has really changed. Prices are not particularly good and sizing of packages is always huge. Pricing on toilet paper and tissues is often no bargain, either. Selection of brands has changed, and not for the better. The only grocery item that we consistently purchase is their 100% Columbian Coffee. Still a deal at $8.89 for a full 3-lb. can of good coffee.
Pet supplies: We still come here to buy our dog food and dog treats, as that has consistently been worth it. Dog beds can also be found for great prices - and they're high quality, too.
Health care items: vitamins (only when on sale or with a rebate) are much cheaper than you'd find elsewhere. Most other items (shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, soaps, body wash) are priced better (and in more reasonable quantities) at other locations.
All in all, I like Costco. Disappointed that some of the items they used to carry are no longer available, but we still consistently purchase certain things here. Quality and pricing on those particular items is worth our membership. But, as stated initially, we now come here a lot less frequently than we did in years past. There is a reason for that. read more