Costco standalone gas station pilots expand (Mission Viejo + new sites)
Key Questions
Where is Costco opening its largest standalone gas station?
The largest station is in Mission Viejo, CA, with 40 pumps, 20 dispensers, and 17k sq ft on a former BBBY site, opening late June 2026.
Is the Mission Viejo gas station members-only?
Yes, it will be members-only from 5am-10pm with no convenience store. This aligns with Costco's strategy for high-fuel markets.
What other locations are planned for Costco standalone gas stations?
Pilots include Kalihi Honolulu HI in 2027, Prosper TX, San Jose, Boise, Santa Barbara, Columbus, Chandler AZ (15 pumps in 2026), Scottsdale tribal, and Livonia MI (20 pumps).
How important is gas sales to Costco's business?
Gas accounts for 10% of sales and provides members about $300/year in savings, often offsetting the membership fee with discounts around $0.20 per gallon.
Why is Costco expanding standalone gas stations now?
Rising gas prices, influenced by factors like Iran tensions, benefit Costco's low-price model. It's a bold shift in fuel strategy for high-demand areas.
Are Costco gas stations accessible to non-members?
The new standalone stations, like Mission Viejo and others, ban non-members from pumps, maintaining the members-only model seen in existing locations.
What benefits do Costco members get from gas stations?
Members save significantly on fuel, making Costco a road trip favorite with prices often below market averages. Stations reinforce loyalty in high-fuel markets.
When did Costco start piloting standalone gas stations?
Pilots are expanding with sites like Prosper TX and San Jose already in progress, Hawaii targeted for 2027, amid growing demand from rising prices.
Mission Viejo CA late June 2026 (40 pumps/20 dispensers/17k sq ft ex-BBBY, members-only 5am-10pm no c-store); Kalihi Honolulu HI '27; Prosper TX/San Jose/Honolulu HI pilots; Hawaii 2027; Boise/Santa Barbara/Columbus; Chandler AZ 15 pumps 2026; Scottsdale tribal; Livonia MI 20 pumps; high-fuel markets reinforced. Gas 10% sales/$300/yr savings ($0.20/gal recoups $65 fee); high prices/Iran tailwind; rising prices reinforce Costco edge (AOL/Intellectia); monitor openings.