Which shop is best for you?

Key points

• Costco only carries about 4,000 SKUs (storage units) compared to the 30,000 found in most supermarkets like Kroger.
• Costco generally has more affordable prices than Kroger.
• Kroger has nearly 2,800 locations in 35 states, and there are 586 Costco locations in 46 states.

When it comes to grocery shopping, choosing the right store can make a big difference in terms of quality, variety, price and convenience. Two of the top contenders in the food industry are Costco and Kroger, and many shoppers wonder which one is best for their needs. We’ve compared Costco and Kroger in various categories, so you can make an informed decision based on your priorities and preferences.

Product selection

Both Costco and Kroger offer a wide variety of products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to meat, dairy, snacks and household essentials. However, Costco is known for its bulk purchases and value packs, ideal for families or those who entertain frequently. If you’re looking to stock up on non-perishable items like toilet paper, pasta, or cereal, Costco is likely to have a better per-unit price than Kroger.

On the other hand, Kroger has a more diverse selection of brands, specialty items, and regional products, which may better suit individual tastes and preferences. Costco only carries about 4,000 SKUs (storage units) compared to the 30,000 found in most supermarkets like Kroger. If you’re a foodie or have specific dietary needs (e.g., gluten-free, vegan, kosher), Kroger is more likely to have a wider variety and better quality products for you.

Price

Costco is often said to be cheaper than traditional supermarkets or even wholesale stores, thanks to its low overheads and direct partnerships with suppliers. Costco is known for being a wholesale retailer specializing in bulk items for businesses and households. Costco requires a paid membership to shop, but when it comes to pricing, Costco tends to have lower unit pricing than Kroger.

However, this may not always be the case, especially if you don’t buy in bulk or have a subscription. So it’s important to shop around and compare prices. Kroger frequently offers discounts, coupons and rebates on various products, as well as reward points and digital offers for members of its loyalty program.

Price comparison

Convenience

When it comes to convenience, both Costco and Kroger have their pros and cons. Costco tends to have larger stores with ample parking, express checkout, and free samples, making it a popular destination for bulk buyers and families. However, long lines and crowded aisles and parking lots can be a nuisance for some shoppers. Costco has 586 locations in 46 states.

Kroger, on the other hand, has nearly 2,800 stores in 35 states under two dozen banners under its brand. This gives clients the flexibility to choose a location and format that suits their needs and schedules. However, prices and availability of some products may vary by location and online orders may require additional fees or pickups.

Credit cards and rewards

The Kroger Rewards World Elite Mastercard® offers cardholders up to 5% cashback on eligible ones grocery shop, 2% cashback at their stores and 1% cashback on all other purchases. Cardholders can also save an additional $0.25 per gallon of fuel, each time they redeem at least 100 fuel points at their fuel centers.

Costco offers members the Costco Anywhere Visa® card from Citi, which allows cardholders to earn Costco cash rewards anywhere Visa is accepted. Costco members can receive rewards of 4% on eligible gas (on the first $7,000 annually and then 1% thereafter), 3% on eligible restaurants and travel, 2% on all other purchases from Costco and Costco.com and 1% for all other purchases.

In addition to its rewards, Costco’s card also offers some perks, such as free purchase protection, travel insurance, and no foreign transaction fees.

When choosing between Costco and Kroger, consider various factors, such as your shopping habits, dietary preferences, budget, and location. While both stores offer quality products, affordable prices, and affordable options, Costco is better suited for bulk buyers, while Kroger offers a broader range of brands and products. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which store aligns with your values ​​and priorities. Both offer great options to help you save on the grocery bill.