MoneyLion
Oct 17, 2026

Costco vs Sam's Club: 4 Deals That Prove at Which Store You Should Shop

Written by J. Arky
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Costco vs Sam's Club: 4 Deals That Prove at Which Store You Should Shop

Plenty of big retailers claim they have the best prices on groceries, home goods, and everyday products. Big box stores like Costco and Sam’s Club are both trying to attract budget-conscious shoppers trying to save a buck during lean economic times.

But which store really has the best offers? Here are four deals that prove where you should shop once and for all.

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For the 152 count of Tide PODS Free & Gentle Laundry Detergent Pacs, Sam's Club wins, according to Elisabella Ricca, personal finance and consumer analyst at TopCashback, who found that Sam’s Club sells these pods for $29.98 compared to Costco's $34.99.

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“That's a savings of just over $5 on a single household essential,” Ricca said. “For families doing multiple loads of laundry each week, choosing the lower-priced option on recurring purchases like detergent can lead to meaningful savings over time.”

In Ricca’s professional opinion, parents stocking up on Goldfish Baked Snack Crackers for lunchbox snacks will find a better deal at Sam's Club — a 3-pack of 22-ounce bags costs $11.82 at Sam’s Club versus Costco's $14.99.

“Shoppers are saving more than $3 on the same-sized product,” said Ricca. “While that may seem like a small difference, snack foods are a staple purchase for many families, making these savings add up throughout the year.”

According to Ricca, Sam's Club is currently offering an 18-count package of Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Dinner (7.25 oz) for $10.96 as part of a promotion lasting until July fifth, while Costco lists the same item for $18.99.

“That's more than $8 in savings, making Sam's Club the clear winner for shoppers looking to maximize their value on this pantry staple,” Ricca said.

When shopping for a 72-count box of Starbucks Dark Roast K-Cup Coffee Pods, French Roast, Ricca discovered that there was only one winner when it came to the best deal: Sam’s Club.

“While both warehouse clubs are currently offering a limited $10 discount on this product, Sam's Club's sale price of $37.98 comes in about $4 lower than Costco's $41.99,” said Ricca. “For households that brew coffee every day, finding savings on a staple purchase like coffee pods can make a noticeable difference over time.”

Based on these four comparisons, Ricca stated that Sam's Club offers the lower price on every item.

“While Costco attracts shoppers with its Kirkland brand and member perks, consumers solely focused on lower prices may find better value at Sam’s Club,” said Ricca. “Over time, even modest price differences on frequently purchased items can translate into meaningful annual savings.”

Editor’s note: Prices and availability are subject to change.

This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice.

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Written by
J. Arky