11 Costco Buys That Could Save Middle-Class Retirees Hundreds

Stretching a fixed or soon-to-be-fixed income isn't always easy, but Costco can quietly become one of the most reliable tools in a retiree's budgeting arsenal.

From deeper discounts on health care essentials to clever ways to get more out of social activities, some purchases genuinely add up to hundreds each year. But if you know the right Costco shopping hacks, you can save a fortune on everyday necessities.

Here are some of the best ways to save at Costco for budget-conscious, middle-class retirees.

Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.

Even without insurance, Costco's prescription program can reduce medication expenses dramatically. Some common generics cost just a fraction of big-pharmacy prices, and Costco advertises savings of up to 80% compared to standard rates on popular items. For retirees juggling multiple monthly prescriptions, this difference can easily represent several hundred dollars a year.

In addition, many medications qualify for 90-day fills at a lower cost per dose. That means fewer trips to the pharmacy, lower per-pill pricing, and better budget predictability.

Hearing aids are notoriously expensive, but Costco's Kirkland Signature models are thousands cheaper than many competitor brands. Retirees can typically expect to pay well under $2,000 per pair, compared to up to $6,000 at private audiology clinics. That price includes fitting, follow-ups, and cleanings.

Because hearing needs often change over time, Costco's free adjustments add long-term value. The warehouse also carries multiple other hearing-aid brands, giving retirees more options at lower-than-market prices.

Costco's multipack gift cards are one of the easiest ways retirees can save big. Many restaurant and entertainment cards come bundled at 20 to 25% off, meaning $100 worth of value often costs just $74.99 to $79.99. If you regularly eat out, get haircuts, or buy movie tickets, this discount alone can free up a few hundred dollars a year.

Beyond restaurants, Costco also discounts digital gaming cards, home services, and travel-related passes. Retirees who give gift cards to grandchildren during holidays or birthdays can save even more by stocking up early. The savings are immediate, and unlike coupons, they never expire, making them especially valuable for anyone on a predictable monthly budget.

Costco's optical department is a reliable money-saver for anyone who relies on glasses or contacts. Frames start at significantly lower prices than traditional eyeglass shops, and lenses, even progressive and anti-glare options, often cost less.

Retirees who need annual prescription changes can save hundreds over time. Costco also sells inexpensive multi-packs of readers, perfect for keeping backups in the car, purse, or kitchen drawer without overspending.

Costco's famous $4.99 rotisserie chicken is still one of the best food deals in America. Even as grocery prices surge, Costco has kept this price steady for years, making it an essential budget hack for retirees. One chicken can stretch into multiple meals like soups, salads, sandwiches, and more, all for less than the cost of a fast-food combo.

Buying one a week could save the average household hundreds of dollars each year compared to purchasing rotisserie chicken at grocery stores like Safeway, where it costs $9.99.

Costco gasoline is consistently among the cheapest in the area, often five to 25 cents less per gallon. A retiree who drives occasionally for errands, appointments, and trips could save hundreds per year, depending on mileage.

The only catch is timing, because the lines can be long on weekends, so weekdays and mornings are the best times to fuel up.

From cat litter to dog food, Costco's pet-care aisle provides some of the deepest savings for retired pet owners. Large bags of kibble cost far less per pound than at pet stores, and the Kirkland Signature formulas are well-reviewed.

If you buy treats, litter, and food every month, switching to Costco can easily save you hundreds or more annually, without sacrificing quality.

Costco's Kirkland Signature batteries repeatedly score high in performance tests while costing dramatically less than big-name brands like Duracell. Whether retirees need AAAs for remotes or AAs for holiday decorations, buying in bulk guarantees long-term savings.

Seasonal sales also make battery packs even cheaper, an essential consideration for households that rely on battery-powered clocks, flashlights, or hearing-aid accessories.

Costco's prepared meals, like chicken pot pie, mac and cheese, and taco kits, offer generous portions at a lower cost per serving than most takeout options. Retirees who want quick dinners without restaurant prices can stretch these meals across several days.

Even simple items like large salad kits cost significantly less per ounce at Costco and make healthy, fast lunches easier to manage.

Smart Drivers, Smarter Savings.

Compare car insurance rates in Ohio

See if you qualify for a lower rate in less than 2 minutes

Currently Insured?

Yes

No

Multiple Cars?

Yes

No

Homeowner

Yes

No

Age

30-39

• 18-29
• 30-39
• 40-49
• 50-59
• 60-69
• 70-79
• 80+

Compare Quotes

By clicking the button above, I understand and agree that this site uses site visit recording technology (provided by Trusted Form, Jornaya, and Microsoft Clarity) Privacy Policy

Smart Drivers, Smarter Savings.

Great News! We’ve located some excellent quote options just for you.

Where can we send you info and recommendations?

Enter Email

Bundle Home & Auto to Save More?

Yes

No

Active Military?

No

Yes

Compare Quotes

By clicking the button above, I understand and agree that this site uses site visit recording technology (provided by Trusted Form, Jornaya, and Microsoft Clarity) Privacy Policy

Many retirees still print recipes, travel documents, or financial records. Costco's multipack ink deals cost less than office supply stores. Buying two full ink sets at Costco saves you $5 to $10 per cartridge than buying just one from a traditional retailer like Staples.

Staples like envelopes, pens, and printer paper also come in bulk at excellent per-unit pricing, ideal for retirees who manage paperwork at home.

Kirkland Signature cleaning supplies and laundry detergents regularly outperform name brands in independent tests, yet cost far less per ounce. A single oversized jug of Kirkland Signature laundry detergent can last months and costs around $7 less than name brands like Tide.

Stocking up on dishwasher pods, multipurpose sprays, and fabric softener sheets at Costco can collectively save retirees hundreds each year.

Retirees who want to stretch their budget even further can look beyond individual items and explore strategies that save money on groceries, such as stocking up during seasonal sales or planning meals around bulk staples. These small habits compound over time, especially when combined with Costco's already-strong value.

Another overlooked tactic is leveraging Costco's return policy, which allows many risk-free trials of household products, electronics, and even some food items. For retirees watching every dollar, fewer purchasing mistakes mean more money left for hobbies, travel, or family.