Both Costco and Sam's Club sell gas well below what most street-corner stations charge. But there are real differences in price, quality, and whether the membership pays off for your situation.
Here's a straight comparison.
Side-by-Side Price Comparison
| Brand | Avg. Discount vs. Local Stations | Membership Cost | Gas Quality | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Costco | 10–25¢/gal | $65/year | Top Tier | Nationwide, 600+ locations |
| Sam's Club | 5–15¢/gal | $50/year | Top Tier | Nationwide, 600+ locations |
Costco: Cheapest Gas, Most Strict
Costco wins on price, full stop. Their business model is built around bringing you in with cheap gas and cheap hot dogs, then making money when you buy a 36-pack of paper towels.
Who it's best for: Drivers who fill up frequently (10+ gallons per week) and already shop at Costco for groceries and household items. The $65 membership pays for itself quickly if you use it regularly. Watch out for: Costco only accepts Visa credit cards and debit cards. No cash, no Mastercard, no Amex. Lines can be long on weekends.Sam's Club: Nearly as Cheap, Cheaper Membership
Sam's Club is typically 2–5 cents per gallon more expensive than Costco, but their basic membership ($50/year) is $15 cheaper. Plus members can get instant fuel discounts via the Sam's Club app.
Who it's best for: Walmart shoppers who want warehouse club savings without the full Costco price tag. Sam's Club app makes it especially easy — you can pay at the pump through your phone. Watch out for: Their station locations aren't quite as numerous as Costco in some western states.The Bottom Line: Which Should You Choose?
- You drive a lot + shop at warehouse clubs: Costco is the easy win.
- You want to save on membership fees: Sam's Club is a great second option at $15 less per year.
- You shop at Walmart regularly: Sam's Club membership may make more sense since it's under the same corporate umbrella.
- Location matters most: Use our search above to find whichever is closest to you.