​Is the price of a Costco membership going up? Here's what we know

In a relief for Costco's Gold Star and Executive members, the members-only warehouse retail giant will not immediately raise membership prices

"With strong renewal rates from loyal shoppers and new sign-ups, Costco does not feel pressure to raise its membership fee," its Chief Financial Officer Richard Galanti said after a first-quarter earnings call.

Costco's loyal customers include inflation-weary shoppers who get low prices on groceries and other fundamental essentials at the retail giant's stores.


“We haven't needed to do it,” Galanti said, while adding: “At this juncture, we feel pretty good about what we're doing.”

Costco raises membership rates every five to six years with the last raise being in June 2017.

Galanti has acknowledged that a price hike is "a question of when, not if," sparking speculation that membership fees may soon increase.

UBS analyst Michael Lasser has been forecasting a membership fee increase for several months. In a note to clients, Lasser anticipates one occurring next summer.

As of now, a Costco Gold Star membership is priced at $60 per year, while an Executive Membership costs $120.

For a limited-time promotion, StackSocial offers a deal for new customers or individuals whose membership lapsed over 18 months ago. By purchasing a one-year Gold Star membership for $60, customers can receive a $40 digital Costco gift card, effectively reducing the net cost of the membership to $20.