What Time Does Costco Open? If you’re a Costco member or thinking about becoming one, knowing the store’s hours is key to planning your shopping trips. Costco is a go-to for bulk buys, from groceries to electronics, but their hours can vary depending on the day, location, and even the season. In this post, I’ll break down everything you need to know about Costco’s opening hours, including regular days, holidays, and special considerations, so you can make the most of your membership.
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Costco’s Standard Operating Hours
Costco’s hours are designed to accommodate busy shoppers, but they’re not the same as your typical 24/7 retailer. Most Costco warehouses in the United States follow a consistent schedule:
- Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
These hours are pretty standard across the board, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Some locations, especially in busy urban areas or during peak seasons, might open earlier or close later. For example, I’ve seen some Costco stores in California open at 9:00 AM on weekdays to handle the morning rush. If you’re not sure about your local Costco, it’s always a good idea to check the specific store’s hours online or give them a quick call.
Why Costco’s Hours Matter
Costco’s hours are tailored to balance customer convenience with operational efficiency. Unlike some retailers that stay open late or round-the-clock, Costco prioritizes giving their employees reasonable work hours while still offering plenty of time for members to shop. The slightly earlier closing times on weekends (6:00 PM) might catch you off guard if you’re used to late-night shopping, so planning ahead is key.
If you’re someone who loves getting to the store right when it opens, you’ll appreciate the quieter aisles and shorter lines. I remember hitting my local Costco in Seattle right at 10:00 AM on a weekday, and it was a breeze to navigate compared to the weekend crowds. Plus, if you’re after fresh bakery items or the best deals on samples, early mornings are your friend.
Special Hours for Certain Groups
One of Costco’s lesser-known perks is their special operating hours for specific groups. For instance, many locations offer Business Center hours or early access for Executive members. Some warehouses used to have exclusive hours for seniors or healthcare workers, especially during the pandemic, but these have largely been phased out as of 2025. If you’re an Executive member, check with your store to see if they offer early entry—sometimes as early as 9:00 AM on weekdays.
Costco Business Centers, which cater to small business owners, often have slightly different hours. These locations might open as early as 7:00 AM to accommodate bulk buyers stocking up for their businesses. If you’re shopping for a restaurant or office, this could be a game-changer.
Holiday Hours: Plan Ahead
Holidays can throw a wrench in your Costco plans, so it’s worth noting which days the store is closed or has adjusted hours. Costco is one of the few major retailers that closes on major holidays, giving employees time off. Here’s a quick rundown of Costco’s holiday closures in the U.S.:
- New Year’s Day: Closed
- Easter Sunday: Closed
- Memorial Day: Closed
- Independence Day: Closed
- Labor Day: Closed
- Thanksgiving Day: Closed
- Christmas Day: Closed
For other holidays, like Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve, Costco often operates on reduced hours, typically closing early at 5:00 PM. I learned this the hard way one Christmas Eve when I showed up at 6:00 PM hoping to grab last-minute holiday snacks, only to find the doors locked! Always double-check the holiday schedule on Costco’s website or app to avoid getting caught out.
Regional and Seasonal Variations
While Costco’s hours are fairly standardized, there are regional differences. For example, Costco locations in Hawaii or Alaska might have slightly different schedules due to local demand or logistics. During peak shopping seasons, like the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving or Christmas, some stores extend their hours—sometimes opening at 9:00 AM or staying open until 9:00 PM on weekdays.
If you’re traveling or visiting a new Costco, don’t assume the hours are the same as your home store. I once made this mistake when I visited a Costco in Florida, expecting it to open at 9:30 AM on a Saturday like my local one, only to find it didn’t open until 10:00 AM. A quick check on Costco’s store locator tool can save you the hassle.
How to Check Your Local Costco’s Hours
The easiest way to confirm your local Costco’s hours is through their official website or app. Just head to the “Find a Warehouse” section, enter your zip code, and you’ll get the exact hours for your store. You can also call the store directly—most have a dedicated customer service line. If you’re on the go, the Costco app is super handy for checking hours, gas station times, or even tire center schedules.
Tips for Shopping at Costco
To make the most of your Costco trip, here are a few tips:
- Go early: Arrive right when the store opens to beat the crowds and snag the freshest items.
- Check for deals: Costco’s monthly coupon books often coincide with their busiest hours, so plan around those.
- Avoid peak times: Weekends, especially Saturday afternoons, can be chaotic. If you can, shop on weekday mornings.
- Bring your membership card: You’ll need it to get in, and some locations are strict about scanning it at the door.
FAQs About Costco’s Hours
1. Does Costco open earlier for Executive members?
In some locations, Executive members get early access, often around 9:00 AM on weekdays. Check with your local warehouse to confirm if this perk is available.
2. Are Costco’s hours the same in every state?
Not always. While most stores follow the standard 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM weekday schedule, some locations in states like California or Hawaii may have variations. Always check your local store’s hours.
3. Is Costco open on federal holidays?
Costco is closed on major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Independence Day. For others, like Veterans Day, they might have reduced hours, so verify ahead of time.
4. Can I shop at Costco’s Business Center at different hours?
Yes, Business Centers often open earlier, sometimes at 7:00 AM, to cater to business owners. Check the specific location for details.
5. How do I find out if my Costco has extended holiday hours?
Visit Costco’s website or app and use the store locator tool to check for extended hours during busy seasons like November and December.
Final Thoughts
Knowing what time Costco opens can save you time and stress, whether you’re stocking up on groceries, grabbing a cheap lunch at the food court, or hunting for deals. With standard hours of 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM on weekdays and slightly shorter hours on weekends, Costco makes it easy to plan your visit—as long as you double-check for holidays or local variations. So, grab your membership card, check your store’s hours, and get ready to tackle those bulk buys!