Target and Costco are both beloved by American shoppers, but for very different reasons. If you've spotted a deal at Target and wondered if Costco would match it, here's the answer: No, Costco does not price match Target.
However, here's the twist—Target actually does offer price matching, including matching Costco's prices in some cases. Let's break down how these policies work and how to get the best deals at both stores.
Costco's No-Match Policy
Costco maintains a strict no-price-match policy against all competitors, including Target. Their reasoning:
- Membership fees allow them to keep margins razor-thin
- Bulk purchasing power locks in low prices from manufacturers
- Limited SKUs mean they can negotiate better deals
- Price matching would require systems and training that add overhead
Instead of price matching, Costco offers a 30-day price adjustment policy on their own prices.
Target's Price Match Policy (Including Costco!)
Here's where it gets interesting: Target will price match Costco on identical items. Target's policy includes matching prices from select competitors:
- Amazon
- Walmart
- Best Buy
- Costco
- And other major retailers
How to Get Target to Match Costco's Price
- Find the identical item at both stores (same brand, size, and model)
- Show the Costco price on your phone (Costco.com works for non-members)
- Ask a Target team member or cashier for a price match
- They'll verify and adjust the price
Important restrictions:
- Items must be identical (same brand, size, quantity)
- Target reserves the right to limit quantities
- Must be within 14 days of purchase for post-purchase adjustments
- Clearance and warehouse-only items may not qualify
Costco vs Target: Price Comparison
These two retailers serve different shopping needs:
| Category | Better Value | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bulk groceries | Costco | Per-unit pricing wins big |
| Regular groceries | Target | Better for smaller households |
| Home decor | Target | Threshold and Hearth & Hand are popular |
| Electronics | Costco | Extended warranty makes up for higher prices |
| Clothing | Target | More variety and styles |
| Baby products | Tie | Bulk diapers at Costco, variety at Target |
| Vitamins | Costco | Kirkland brand offers best value |
Target Circle vs Costco Membership
Both stores have loyalty programs, but they work very differently:
Target Circle (Free)
- 1% earnings on purchases (redeemable at Target)
- Personalized deals and offers
- 5% birthday discount
- Community giving votes
- No membership fee
Target Circle 360 ($99/year)
- Free same-day delivery on orders $35+
- Free 2-day shipping on all orders
- All Target Circle benefits included
Costco Membership ($65-$130/year)
- Access to warehouse pricing
- Executive members get 2% annual reward (up to $1,250)
- Costco credit card offers additional 2% back
- Gas savings ($0.20-$0.40/gallon off)
When to Shop at Each Store
Shop at Costco When:
- You're buying items you use in large quantities
- You need Kirkland Signature products
- You're purchasing electronics (for the warranty)
- You want the cheapest gas in town
- You're stocking up for a party or event
Shop at Target When:
- You need convenience (more locations, no membership)
- You want home decor and stylish clothing
- You're buying for a small household
- You can use Target Circle deals
- You want same-day delivery or pickup
Pro Tip: Use Target's Price Match to Your Advantage
Since Target price matches Costco but Costco doesn't match Target, here's a clever strategy:
- Check Costco.com for prices (no membership needed to view)
- If Costco has a better price, go to Target
- Request a price match at checkout
- Get Costco prices without the membership fee
This works best for items you don't need in bulk quantities and when Target carries the exact same product.
Price Tracking: The Ultimate Solution
Rather than manually comparing prices between Costco and Target, let technology do the work. Task Monkey tracks prices across multiple retailers automatically, alerting you when:
- An item you want drops in price anywhere
- Costco has a better price than Target (or vice versa)
- A purchase you made qualifies for a price adjustment
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Target match Costco's member-only prices?
Target can match prices shown on Costco.com that are publicly visible. However, some Costco prices are only available in-warehouse or to members logged in. Target may request verification.
Can I price match at Target without a Costco membership?
Yes! Target matches advertised prices. If you can show the price on Costco.com (which anyone can view), Target should honor it.
Does Target price match Costco's Kirkland brand?
No. Price matching requires identical items. Kirkland is exclusive to Costco, so there's nothing for Target to match.
Which store has better returns?
Costco's return policy is more generous (no time limit on most items) compared to Target's 90-day return window. However, both are considered customer-friendly.