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- 11 Costco Buys That Could Save Middle-Class Retirees Hundreds (financebuzz.com)
Savvy Savings: How Costco Can Be a Retiree’s Best Friend for Budgeting
For many retirees living on a fixed income, making every dollar stretch is a top priority. While it might seem like a giant warehouse store, Costco can actually become a secret weapon in a retiree’s financial arsenal. From unexpected discounts on healthcare essentials to clever ways to make social activities more affordable, smart shopping at Costco can lead to hundreds, if not thousands, in annual savings.
We’ve rounded up some of the best ways for budget-conscious, middle-class retirees to maximize their Costco membership and keep more money in their pockets.
Editor’s Note: Prices and availability can change and may vary by location.
1. Prescription Powerhouse
Even without robust insurance, Costco’s prescription program is a game-changer. Many common generic medications can be dramatically cheaper than at traditional pharmacies, with advertised savings of up to 80% on popular items.
For retirees managing multiple monthly prescriptions, this isn’t just a small discount; it could mean hundreds of dollars back in their budget each year. Plus, many medications qualify for convenient and cost-effective 90-day fills, reducing trips to the pharmacy and offering better budget predictability.
2. Hearing Aid Heroes
Hearing aids are notoriously expensive, but Costco’s Kirkland Signature models offer a significant reprieve, often thousands less than competitor brands. Retirees can typically expect to pay under $2,000 for a pair, which includes fitting, follow-ups, and cleanings – a stark contrast to the $6,000 or more often seen at private audiology clinics.
With hearing needs evolving, Costco’s free adjustments add incredible long-term value. The warehouse also stocks other reputable hearing aid brands, providing more affordable options.
3. Gift Card Goldmine
One of the simplest ways retirees can save big is through Costco’s multipack gift cards. Many restaurant and entertainment cards are bundled at 20% to 25% off their face value.
That means a $100 gift card often costs just $74.99 to $79.99! If you frequently dine out, get haircuts, or enjoy movies, this discount alone can free up hundreds annually.
Beyond dining, Costco discounts digital gaming cards, home services, and travel passes. For those who give gift cards for birthdays or holidays, stocking up early means instant savings that, unlike coupons, never expire.
4. Optical Oasis
Costco’s optical department is a reliable money-saver for anyone relying on glasses or contacts. Frames are significantly more affordable than at traditional eyewear stores, and lenses – even progressive and anti-glare options – often come with a lower price tag.
Retirees needing annual prescription changes can save hundreds over time. Plus, inexpensive multi-packs of readers are perfect for stashing backups in the car, purse, or kitchen without breaking the bank.
5. The Legendary Rotisserie Chicken
Costco’s famous $4.99 rotisserie chicken remains one of America’s best food deals. Even as grocery prices climb, Costco has held this price steady for years, making it an essential budget hack.
One chicken can stretch into multiple meals – think soups, salads, sandwiches, and more – all for less than a fast-food combo. Buying one a week could save an average household hundreds of dollars annually compared to grocery stores where similar chickens can cost double.
6. Fueling Up for Less
Costco gasoline is consistently among the cheapest in the area, often saving drivers five to 25 cents per gallon. For retirees who drive for errands, appointments, and occasional trips, these savings can add up to hundreds a year, depending on mileage.
The only trick? Timing your visit, as lines can be long on weekends.
Weekdays and mornings are usually your best bet for a quick fill-up.
7. Pet Supply Perks
For retired pet owners, Costco’s pet-care aisle offers some of the deepest savings. Large bags of kibble cost far less per pound than at specialty pet stores, and the Kirkland Signature formulas are highly rated. If you regularly buy treats, litter, and food, switching to Costco could easily save hundreds or more each year without compromising quality for your furry friends.
8. Battery Bargains
Costco’s Kirkland Signature batteries consistently perform well in tests and cost dramatically less than leading brands like Duracell. Whether you need AAAs for remotes or AAs for holiday decorations, buying in bulk ensures long-term savings. Seasonal sales offer even deeper discounts, a crucial consideration for households that rely on battery-powered clocks, flashlights, or hearing aid accessories.
9. Convenient and Cost-Effective Meals
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 looking for quick dinners without restaurant prices can easily stretch these meals across several days. Even simple items like large salad kits are significantly less per ounce at Costco, making healthy, fast lunches much more manageable.
10. Smart Office Staples
Many retirees still find themselves printing recipes, travel documents, or financial records. Costco’s multipack ink deals are cheaper than office supply stores; buying two full ink sets at Costco can save $5 to $10 per cartridge compared to buying just one from a traditional retailer. Staples like envelopes, pens, and printer paper also come in bulk at excellent per-unit pricing, ideal for managing paperwork at home.
11. Sparkling Savings on Cleaning Supplies
Kirkland Signature cleaning supplies and laundry detergents frequently outperform name brands in independent tests, yet cost far less per ounce. A single oversized jug of Kirkland Signature laundry detergent can last for months and often costs about $7 less than national brands. Stocking up on dishwasher pods, multipurpose sprays, and fabric softener sheets at Costco can collectively save retirees hundreds each year, keeping homes clean and budgets happy.
The Bottom Line
Retirees looking to stretch their budget even further can combine these Costco hacks with other smart strategies, like stocking up during seasonal sales or planning meals around bulk staples. These small habits compound over time, especially when paired with Costco’s already strong value.
Another often-overlooked tactic is leveraging Costco’s generous return policy, which allows for risk-free trials of many 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.
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- 11 Costco Buys That Could Save Middle-Class Retirees Hundreds (financebuzz.com)