Who is bigger, Sams Club or Costco, and How Do They Compare?

This is a question many shoppers ponder when deciding where to get the best bang for their buck. Both Sam's Club and Costco are behemoths in the wholesale club industry, offering bulk savings and a treasure trove of products. But when we talk about "bigger," we can look at several metrics: revenue, number of locations, and even the sheer size of their operations. Let's break it down.

Revenue: The Bottom Line

When it comes to sheer financial muscle, Costco generally pulls ahead. For the fiscal year ending in 2026, Costco reported net sales of approximately $237.9 billion. Sam's Club, which is owned by Walmart, reported revenue of around $84.3 billion for its fiscal year ending in January 2026.

So, in terms of revenue, Costco is significantly larger, bringing in almost three times the amount of money that Sam's Club does. This indicates a larger overall sales volume and customer spending across Costco's operations.

Number of Locations: Spreading the Savings

The number of physical stores each company operates is another key indicator of their reach. As of late 2026/early 2026:

Costco operates roughly 870 warehouses globally, with a significant portion of those in the United States.
Sam's Club operates approximately 600 clubs in the United States.

While both have a substantial footprint, Costco has a slightly larger number of warehouses worldwide. However, Sam's Club focuses its operations primarily within the United States.

Membership: The Core of the Business

Both Sam's Club and Costco rely heavily on their membership programs to drive sales and create a loyal customer base. Membership fees contribute a substantial amount to their profitability. While exact, up-to-the-minute membership numbers are proprietary, industry estimates and reports suggest:

Costco boasts over 129 million cardholders worldwide.
Sam's Club has reported membership figures in the range of 50 million members in the United States.

Again, Costco appears to have a larger global membership base. This larger membership pool can translate to more consistent foot traffic and higher overall sales volume per member, reinforcing Costco's lead in revenue.

Product Selection and Store Experience: A Matter of Preference

Beyond the numbers, shoppers often consider the actual shopping experience. Both clubs offer a wide variety of merchandise, from groceries and electronics to apparel and home goods. However, there are some perceived differences:

Costco is often lauded for its premium, brand-name selections, particularly in electronics, jewelry, and high-end apparel. Their Kirkland Signature private label is also highly regarded for its quality and value. Many shoppers find the overall store ambiance to be slightly more upscale.
Sam's Club also offers a strong selection of brands, but it is often seen as having a slightly more value-oriented or everyday-essentials focus. Their Member's Mark private label is also a significant player, offering competitive pricing. Some shoppers prefer Sam's Club for its slightly more streamlined shopping experience and often more frequent instant savings or coupon-like offers.

Ultimately, the "better" store for product selection is subjective and depends on individual preferences and needs.

The "Bigger" Verdict

Based on the key metrics of revenue and global presence (number of locations and membership numbers), Costco is undeniably bigger than Sam's Club.

However, this does not mean Sam's Club is not a formidable competitor. It holds a strong position within the U.S. market, leveraging its affiliation with Walmart to offer competitive pricing and a convenient shopping experience for millions of Americans.

Key Takeaways:

Revenue: Costco significantly outpaces Sam's Club.
Locations: Costco has more warehouses globally, while Sam's Club is primarily U.S.-focused with fewer locations.
Membership: Costco has a larger global membership base.
Product Strategy: Both offer value, but Costco is often perceived as having a more premium selection, while Sam's Club leans towards everyday essentials and value.

For the average American consumer, the choice between Sam's Club and Costco often comes down to proximity, specific product needs, and personal preference for the shopping experience rather than simply which one is "bigger." Both offer substantial savings for those willing to purchase in bulk.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does Costco's international presence compare to Sam's Club?

Costco has a much more extensive international presence, with warehouses located in multiple countries across North America, Asia, Europe, and Australia. Sam's Club, while present in some international markets historically, has largely focused its current operations within the United States.

Why is Costco's revenue so much higher than Sam's Club's?

Costco's higher revenue can be attributed to several factors, including a larger global footprint, a more extensive and often higher-priced product mix that appeals to a broader demographic, and potentially higher average spending per member. Its strong brand recognition and reputation for quality also contribute to its sales volume.

How do their membership fees differ?

Both clubs offer different membership tiers with varying benefits and prices. Generally, Costco's higher-tier membership (Executive) offers a cash-back reward, while Sam's Club also has tiers that include additional discounts or rewards. The exact pricing can fluctuate, but both offer competitive annual fees for their basic memberships.

What is the main difference in their product offerings?

While both offer a wide range of products, Costco is often perceived as having a slightly more premium selection of electronics, designer brands, and organic items. Sam's Club is seen as strongly focusing on everyday essentials, value brands, and a broader range of grocery items, often with more immediate discounts or coupon-like savings available.