Costco

If you’re looking for bulk groceries, household essentials, or electronics at competitive prices, Costco should be on your list. As of October 2024, Costco has 622 stores across the United States, making it a major player in the wholesale retail industry.

The chain is especially popular in states like California, Texas, and Washington, which host a significant number of locations. Let’s explore what makes Costco a favorite among shoppers and dive into its presence across the country.

A Store for Every Shopper

Costco’s vast presence spans 49 states and territories, with California leading the charge at 140 stores, making up 23% of all U.S. locations. Texas follows with 41 stores, while Washington houses 34. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a suburban neighborhood, chances are there’s a Costco nearby, offering everything from groceries to appliances at affordable prices.

The Bulk Shopping Experience

Costco is renowned for its bulk shopping model, allowing customers to purchase large quantities at lower prices. The store offers a membership system, which provides access to exclusive deals and discounts. Many shoppers are drawn to the value Costco provides, from everyday household items to luxury goods, all in one location.

The shopping experience at Costco is unique because it caters to those who want quality and quantity in a single purchase. Customers can often find everything from groceries to high-end electronics under one roof, making it a one-stop-shop for both personal and business needs.

Comparison with Competitors

Retailer	Number of Locations	States Covered	Cities Covered
Costco	622	49	532
TJ Maxx	1,316	51	1,101
Dollar General	20,220	48	7,755
Walmart	4,611	52	2,636

Shopping Behavior by State for Costco

The distribution of Costco stores across the United States reveals distinct shopping behaviors influenced by store density, population demographics, and consumer preferences. Here’s an analysis of the unique shopping behaviors in the top states with the most Costco locations.

California

• Store Count: 140 (23%)
• Population: 39.51 million
• Population per Store: 282,229
• Shopping Behavior: Californians frequently visit Costco for bulk purchases, taking advantage of the wide variety of products available. The high number of stores encourages regular shopping trips, particularly for groceries and household items. The state’s diverse demographic influences a demand for organic and specialty items, making Costco a popular choice for health-conscious consumers.

Texas

• Store Count: 41 (7%)
• Population: 29 million
• Population per Store: 707,220
• Shopping Behavior: Texans often plan their shopping trips to Costco due to the lower store density. They appreciate the value offered on bulk items and often shop for family-sized packages of groceries and household essentials. The culture of entertaining and large family gatherings drives demand for larger quantities of food and supplies.

Washington

• Store Count: 34 (5%)
• Population: 7.62 million
• Population per Store: 223,971
• Shopping Behavior: Washington residents enjoy frequent visits to Costco, often combining grocery shopping with other errands. The state’s emphasis on sustainability and local products influences purchasing decisions, with many shoppers seeking organic and eco-friendly options available at Costco.

Florida

• Store Count: 33 (5%)
• Population: 21.48 million
• Population per Store: 650,850
• Shopping Behavior: Floridians utilize Costco for both everyday groceries and seasonal items. With a significant number of retirees in the state, many shoppers focus on bulk purchases that provide value, especially for household goods and personal care products.

Illinois

• Store Count: 23 (4%)
• Population: 12.67 million
• Population per Store: 550,960
• Shopping Behavior: Shoppers in Illinois often visit Costco for both groceries and non-food items like electronics and clothing. The store serves as a one-stop shop for families looking to save money on bulk purchases while enjoying a variety of products.

New Jersey

• Store Count: 21 (3%)
• Population: 8.88 million
• Population per Store: 422,950
• Shopping Behavior: New Jersey residents value convenience and quality, making Costco a popular destination for bulk buying. Shoppers often seek out deals on high-quality meats and produce, reflecting a preference for fresh ingredients in meal preparation.

Arizona

• Store Count: 20 (3%)
• Population: 7.28 million
• Population per Store: 363,950
• Shopping Behavior: Arizonans tend to shop at Costco for both food and outdoor supplies, particularly during the warmer months. The store is popular among families looking to stock up on essentials while enjoying significant savings.

New York

• Store Count: 19 (3%)
• Population: 19.45 million
• Population per Store: 1,020,000
• Shopping Behavior: New Yorkers may visit Costco less frequently due to the lower number of stores relative to population size. When they do shop at Costco, it’s often for bulk purchases of non-perishable items or specialty goods that are harder to find in smaller local stores.

Virginia

• Store Count: 17 (3%)
• Population: 8.54 million
• Population per Store: 502,120
• Shopping Behavior: Virginians appreciate the value offered by Costco and often visit for groceries as well as household supplies. The store is seen as an essential resource for families looking to save money while purchasing high-quality products.

Michigan

• Store Count: 17 (3%)
• Population: 9.99 million
• Population per Store: 587,470
• Shopping Behavior: Michiganders utilize Costco primarily for grocery shopping but also appreciate the variety of seasonal items available. The store is popular among families who seek out bulk deals on everyday essentials.

State	Number of Stores	Population	Population per Store
California	140	39.51M	282,229
Texas	41	29.00M	707,220
Washington	34	7.62M	223,971
Florida	33	21.48M	650,850
Illinois	23	12.67M	550,960
New Jersey	21	8.88M	422,950
Arizona	20	7.28M	363,950
New York	19	19.45M	1,020,000
Virginia	17	8.54M	502,120
Michigan	17	9.99M	587,470

This analysis highlights how demographic factors influence shopping behaviors at Costco across different states, showcasing regional preferences and trends among consumers seeking value-driven shopping experiences.

Why Choose Costco?

Costco’s appeal lies not just in its bulk savings but also in its commitment to quality and variety. The membership model offers access to exclusive products and services, including optical centers, pharmacies, and even travel packages. Whether you’re looking to stock up on groceries or invest in a new television, Costco provides a value-driven, convenient shopping experience that keeps customers coming back.

With over 600 locations nationwide, Costco continues to be a cornerstone of wholesale retail in the U.S. The combination of low prices, high-quality goods, and the unique bulk shopping experience makes it a go-to for millions of Americans. Whether you’re in California, Texas, or Washington, Costco offers something for everyone. So next time you need to stock up, consider making a trip to your nearest Costco.