Visiting Costco: Midwest vs. New York City

Having hailed from Wisconsin and living in New York City for the past ten years, I find joy in contrasting these two distinct places I call home.

In a series exploring how nationwide chains like Target differ between the Midwest and NYC, I explored Costco branches in both Wisconsin and Manhattan in 2023. My annual $60 Gold Star membership allows access to any Costco location.

Costco, a favorite retailer globally, offers bulk deals at competitive prices. In the 2024 fiscal year, its net earnings reached $249.6 billion, marking a 5% growth from 2023.

Despite the chain's standardization, as seen during a visit to a Costco in Iceland, I was curious about any regional shifts in pricing, product availability, and overall shopping vibe. Here’s what stood out to me.

Exploring Wisconsin’s Costco

Back in Grafton, Wisconsin, during November 2023, I checked out a Costco spanning 151,000 square feet.

You couldn’t miss the extensive tech gear right at the entrance.

Come winter; it was loaded with cozy sweaters, coats, and varied apparel.

The store felt spacious during a Thursday afternoon, with open aisles providing easy navigation.

Kirkland’s bakery tempted shoppers with delicious cookies, pastries, and birthday cakes.

A dedicated walk-in space held the fresh produce.

Sample stations overflowed with employees handing out treats like veggie crisps and granola pieces.

Local Delights

Regional gems included Ellsworth, Wisconsin’s cheddar cheese curds.

Additionally, they stocked coffee roasted in Door County, Wisconsin.

Checkout was brisk, with minimal wait at both self-service and cashier lanes.

Food Court Experience

Post-shopping, customers could relish pizza, sandwiches, and churros near the exits.

Windows bore alerts about potential allergens alongside the menus featuring familiar soda options, with abundant seating nearby.

Manhattan's Costco Encounter

Shifting focus, I toured East Harlem's Costco, tucked within the East River Plaza alongside shops like Aldi and Marshalls.

Parking here wasn’t free; it entailed a $6 fee for up to two hours.

Arriving early one Friday morning, eager shoppers were queued up before the 10 a.m. opening.

Much smaller than its Midwest counterpart, this 110,000 square foot store was in constant hustle.

Navigating was tricky due to narrow, crowded aisles.

Notable Offerings

Similar clothing selections were presented. However, certain items like Wisconsin cheese curds were absent.

Though the rotisserie chicken prices were consistent at $4.99, they swiftly sold here in NYC.

Unlike my experience in Wisconsin, samples weren’t immediately available.

Food Court Insights

Though featuring similar menus, the NYC outlet lacked visible allergen warnings. The drink selection included Brisk iced tea instead of Starry.

Conclusion

While New York's location felt chaotic, the variety and value make a Costco visit worthwhile, no matter the state.