With Summer weather heating up in general, many Clever Friends will be heading to the liquor store to stock up on adult beverages, including beer. Many people would just go to the nearest liquor store for convenience, and don’t shop around for the best price of their favorite fermented beverage. Costco is known for great deals, and many locations also have a liquor store, so it is logical to ask: is Costco beer cheaper?
The bottom line is that Costco beer is significantly less expensive when compared to local liquor stores, and it is also less expensive when you compare Costco beer vs./ kegs.
Alcohol, $23.95 for a 24-pack of beer Costco offers great deals on hard liquor and packs of beer. They have a wide-ranging selection and the unit prices are unbeatable compared to the grocery store.
Costco Beer vs Keg
Another comparison a person may want to do is Costco beer and getting a keg. It would take about 7 cases of beer to equal a number of servings in a half barrel keg (about 16 gallons). Using those measurements, I cost compared the three brands of Costco beer that had the most savings over my local liquor store.
Buying cases of Costco beer are less expensive on its own. However, once you take into account the other expenses and inconveniences of getting a keg (such as cups, ice, keg, and tap deposit), Costco beer may be a clear cut better choice.
Kirkland is Costco’s store brand product line. They do have some Kirkland store brand beer as well, which can be had at a significantly less expensive price than your typical brand name beers. For example, a 48 pack of Kirkland Light beer can be purchased for $22.49 which is only slightly more than a 24 pack of Bud Light at a traditional liquor store. A 24 variety pack of Kirkland Craft Beers costs $19.99, whereas a similar 12 pack at a traditional liquor store is $15.99 or $31.98 for a 24 pack. Whether these Kirkland products are good quality is subjective, but certainly worth a try!
Costco Beer vs Traditional Liquor Store
We’ve compared the price of some hard liquor from Costco to a neighborhood liquor store previously and found that Costco’s prices were significantly lower. Now, we’re going to specifically compare the price of Costco beer. I went to a nearby Costco and noted the selection and price of Costco beer in their liquor store. Then I went to a nearby liquor store and gathered the price of the same products to compare. The results are in the following table, all prices are for a 24 pack of cans unless noted otherwise.
The selection at Costco is limited to the most popular brands, and with very few exceptions are sold only in 24 packs. There are some specialty beers, such as 2 varieties of Surly, but these are limited to only the most popular of specialty beers at the current time. I would guess as time goes on, the selection will shift to reflect current trends.
The prices for Costco beer can be significantly lower, as shown by the dramatic price difference for Grain Belt Nordeast, Summer Shandy, Bud Light and Miller Light. Other Costco Beer brands have a lesser discount, and a few are actually nominally more expensive.
Note: these prices were from 2017, but Costco’s underlying economics in 2017 are the same as they are in 2013, so the price differentials are likely consistent.
We Finally Know Why Costco’s Liquor Is So Cheap
FAQ
Does Costco have good price on beer?
How much is a 36 pack of beer at Costco?
Why is alcohol so cheap at Costco?
How much does Costco beer cost?
Warsteiner Premium Lager Another affordable choice at Costco is the 24-pack of Warsteiner Premium Lager. This smooth-tasting beverage is for those beer drinkers who aren’t looking for spice or bitter flavors but appreciate a mild, subtle brew. If that sounds like you, at around $27, this just might be your new go-to for after-work drinks and more.
Is Costco a good place to buy beer?
While Costco might be known for its bulk food and household supplies, it also boasts an impressive selection of top-quality beers that are worth checking out. Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply looking for a simple brew to enjoy, this store has you covered with a range of options to suit your preferences.
Does Costco sell alcohol?
Kirkland brand wine was first produced in 2003, followed by hard alcohol in 2007 and later craft beer. Now, you can buy nearly every spirit under Costco’s signature in-house label, including American and French vodka, Scotch, whiskey, bourbon, rum, tequila, and gin. We even handpicked the best liquor you can find at Costco. 4.
What kind of Beer can you get at Costco?
Another amazing option of beer you can have at Costco is Kirkland Pale Ale. This American-style beer is the corporation’s signature beer which they brew themselves for the consumers. Pale Ale contains caramelized malt as the flavor and tastes a little sweet. Its hop profile provides an outstanding aroma that will melt down your heart.