While Costco Wholesale is known for consistency, its opening hours still vary slightly depending on the day of the week, location, and special holidays.
For 2026, Costco has confirmed that its standard operating schedule remains unchanged from recent years. That means members can expect familiar opening times across most U.S. warehouse locations, with only minor exceptions during holidays or for special services like gas stations and pharmacies.
Costco Opening Time in 2026 – Overview
| Retailer Name | Costco Wholesale |
| Country Covered | United States |
| Weekday Opening Time (Mon–Fri) | 10:00 AM |
| Saturday Opening Time | 9:30 AM |
| Sunday Opening Time | 10:00 AM |
| Weekday Closing Time | 8:30 PM (varies by location) |
| Saturday Closing Time | 6:00 PM |
| Sunday Closing Time | 6:00 PM |
| Earliest Opening Day | Saturday |
| Executive Member Early Entry | Not available |
| Gas Station Opening Time | 6:00–7:00 AM (location dependent) |
| Pharmacy Opening Time | 10:00 AM (most locations) |
| Food Court Opening Time | Same as warehouse opening |
| Holiday Schedule | Closed on major U.S. holidays |
| New Year’s Day | Closed |
| Thanksgiving Day | Closed |
| Christmas Day | Closed |
| Hours Variation by Location | Minor variations possible |
| Best Time to Shop | Right at opening on weekdays |
| Official Schedule Status | Confirmed for 2026 |
Standard Costco Opening Hours in 2026
Across the United States, most Costco warehouse stores follow a uniform opening schedule designed to balance high foot traffic with operational efficiency. In 2026, these hours remain consistent with prior years.
- Monday to Friday: Opens at 10:00 AM
- Saturday: Opens at 9:30 AM
- Sunday: Opens at 10:00 AM
Closing times generally range between 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM, depending on the day, but opening hours are more standardized and easier to remember.
Costco does not typically open earlier for executive members or senior hours anymore, a practice that was phased out after temporary pandemic-era policies ended.
Does Costco Ever Open Earlier Than 10 AM?
In most cases, no. Costco warehouses are known for opening exactly at the posted time, and staff typically do not allow customers to enter early even if doors appear unlocked. However, there are a few rare exceptions:
- New warehouse grand openings may open earlier on launch day
- Business-only Costco locations sometimes have earlier hours
- Special regional events or emergencies may alter hours temporarily
For everyday shopping in 2026, you should assume 10:00 AM as the earliest reliable opening time unless your local warehouse explicitly states otherwise.
Costco Weekend Opening Hours Explained
Weekend shopping at Costco is extremely popular, which is why the retailer slightly adjusts its Saturday schedule.
Saturday
- Opening time is 9:30 AM
- This is the earliest opening time of the week
- Warehouses tend to be busiest between 11 AM and 2 PM
Sunday
- Opening time is 10:00 AM
- Shorter operating day compared to weekdays
- Often crowded mid-day due to family shoppers
If you want the calmest experience, arriving right at opening time on Saturday is often your best bet.
Costco Gas Station Opening Times in 2026
Costco gas stations operate on a separate schedule from warehouse stores and often open earlier. Typical Costco Gas Station Hours
- Monday to Friday: Opens between 6:00 AM and 6:30 AM
- Saturday: Opens around 6:30 AM
- Sunday: Opens around 7:00 AM
These earlier hours make Costco gas stations especially popular with commuters. Closing times vary but are often later than warehouse closing hours.
Important note: Gas station hours can vary by location, so it’s always wise to check your local listing.
Costco Pharmacy Opening Hours in 2026
The Costco pharmacy also operates independently from warehouse shopping hours.
- Monday to Friday: Opens at 10:00 AM
- Saturday: Opens at 9:30 AM
- Sunday: Usually closed at many locations
Pharmacy hours may be shorter than warehouse hours, and not all locations operate pharmacies every day. Prescription pickup does not require a Costco membership in many states, but shopping inside the warehouse does.
Costco Food Court Opening Time
The Costco food court generally opens when the warehouse opens, meaning:
- Weekdays: 10:00 AM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM
However, availability can vary. Some food courts may open slightly later due to staffing or preparation schedules, particularly on slower weekdays.
Costco Holiday Opening Schedule in 2026
Costco is well-known for closing on major U.S. holidays, which remains unchanged in 2026. Costco is closed on the following holidays:
- New Year’s Day
- Easter Sunday
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day (July 4)
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
On days surrounding holidays, Costco may operate on reduced hours, typically opening at the regular time but closing earlier. If you’re shopping around a holiday, it’s best to visit one or two days before, as Costco stores can become extremely crowded.
Why Costco’s Opening Hours Rarely Change?
Costco’s business model depends on predictability and efficiency. Fixed opening times help with:
- Staff scheduling
- Inventory restocking
- Crowd control
- Member expectations
By keeping a consistent schedule year after year, Costco minimizes confusion and ensures smoother daily operations. That’s why 2026 opening hours closely mirror those from 2024 and 2025.
Best Time to Shop at Costco in 2026
While knowing opening hours is important, timing your visit can make a huge difference.
Least Crowded Times
- Right at opening (especially weekdays)
- One hour before closing on weekdays
- Tuesday and Wednesday mornings
Most Crowded Times
- Saturday late morning to afternoon
- Sunday midday
- The days before major holidays
If you want quick entry, short checkout lines, and easier parking, arriving within the first 30 minutes after opening is ideal.
How to Check Local Costco’s Exact Opening Time?
Although Costco follows national standards, minor variations can occur due to local regulations or warehouse type. To confirm exact hours:
- Check your warehouse’s posted hours at the entrance
- Use the Costco mobile app
- Call your local warehouse directly
This is especially important if you’re traveling or visiting a Costco in a different city or state.
Final Thoughts
For most shoppers, the answer to “What time does Costco open in 2026?” is reassuringly simple. In nearly all locations, Costco opens at 10:00 AM on weekdays and Sundays, and 9:30 AM on Saturdays, with gas stations opening much earlier.
These confirmed hours allow members to plan their shopping trips efficiently, whether they’re stocking up for the week, grabbing lunch from the food court, or filling up their gas tank before work. As long as you account for weekends and holidays, Costco’s 2026 schedule remains one of the most predictable among major retailers making it easy to shop smart and stress-free.
FAQs
What time does Costco open on weekdays in 2026?
Most Costco warehouses open at 10:00 AM from Monday to Friday.
Does Costco open earlier on Saturdays?
Yes, Costco opens at 9:30 AM on Saturdays.
Is Costco open on Sundays in 2026?
Yes, most locations open at 10:00 AM on Sundays.
Are Costco gas stations open earlier than the store?
Yes, gas stations usually open between 6:00 and 7:00 AM.
Can Costco opening hours vary by location?
Yes, minor variations can occur, so checking your local warehouse is recommended.
