How Much is a Case of Bottled Water at Costco? (The Real Cost Guide)
Ah, Costco. Oversized trolleys, free samples, and bulk discounts—things that make you wonder how you ever survived without 20 pounds of cheese—Among their famous transactions, the Kirkland Signature bottled water usually stands out as a great illustration of wholesale value. Still, what’s the actual cost of Costco bottled water cases? Having years under my belt as a skilled bargain hunter and consumer writer, I can tell you that the price tag is not always as easy. Let’s analyze the hydration equation.
The Costco Deal: A Closer Look at the Base Price
For many, Kirkland Signature bottled water is synonymous with exceptional value. Usually, you’ll see it offered in a 40 count case of 16.9 fluid ounce bottles. Often running from $2.99 to $4.19, the in-store price for these cases can vary somewhat by region. For instance, some reports indicate prices around $3.39 in Texas, while recent observations show an increase to about $4.19 in certain areas from previous lower points.
You’re paying only a few cents a bottle at these prices, which makes purchasing bottled water one of the most affordable ways to do so—especially when compared to convenience stores or even supermarkets.
The California Conundrum: Knowing the CRV
But if you live in states with bottle deposit regulations, the sticker price isn’t always the final cost. California is a perfect example of this with its California Redemption Value (CRV).
Suppose you discovered Kirkland water’s 36-pack for $3.99. Sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? But in California you will see an extra $2.00 CRV added to your bill, bringing the total for that case to $5.99. This fee works out to $0.05 per bottle for smaller volumes and can be $0.10 for bottles 24 oz or bigger in California and Oregon.
Good news: This CRV is refundable if you drop your empty bottles off at a recycling facility. The bad news is that locating readily accessible, operational recycling facilities might sometimes be difficult, hence converting a refundable charge into a substantial additional cost for many customers. This underlines how your ultimate cost can be considerably influenced by state-specific rules.
In-Store vs. Online: The Price Disparity
Although Costco is well-known for its in-store specials, trying to duplicate those discounts online can be a sobering revelation. Should you visit other internet retailers such Walmart or Boxed.com, Kirkland Signature water in a 40-count case might cost anywhere between $7.98 and over $19.90. Even having a pallet from Costco’s own website come at a greater per-case price than you would get picking it up yourself from the warehouse.
Shipping charges and convenience markups account mostly for this great price disparity. Pricing must reflect the high cost of carrying heavy cases of water by internet stores (or even Costco for delivery). The final deal still calls for a visit to the actual warehouse.
Factors beyond the sticker price
Other factors that subtly affect the price of your bottled water apart from the starting price, CRV, and delivery:
- Your overall sum is directly affected by local taxes and environmental fees, which vary by state and locality as seen with CRV.
- Membership: Obviously, you must often be a paid member to obtain these sought-after Costco pricing. Part of your whole cost of buying there is this yearly charge.
- Bottled water prices at Costco, like those of many other consumer goods, have steadily risen over time to mirror more general economic patterns.
Verdict: Kirkland Water Still a Steal?
Even with the subtleties of CRV and the premium for internet comfort, most customers still have a clear and unambiguous yes. Offering an unmatched cost-per-bottle, Kirkland Signature bottled water bought on-site at Costco still stands among the most affordable means to keep hydrated.
Your genuine cost will be determined on your location (watch out for those CRV states!), your willingness to travel to the warehouse, and whether you intend to claim any bottle deposits. For pure volume and value, though, Costco’s Kirkland water remains a first pick for informed consumers trying to quench their families without breaking the bank.
FAQs
How much does a case of bottled water cost at Costco?
The price for a 40-count case of Kirkland Signature water is usually $2.99 to $4.19 at Costco. However, with local fees like California’s CRV, it can rise to $5.99 or more depending on the brand, volume, and location.
How much is a 40-pack of Kirkland water?
A 40-pack of 16.9 fl oz Kirkland Signature water usually costs between $2.99 and $4.19 in-store at Costco, but prices can differ by location.
How much does water cost at Costco?
In-store, Costco charges about $2.99 to $4.19 for a 40-count case of Kirkland Signature bottled water. Prices for 5-gallon water bottles for coolers start at $6.99.
How many water bottles are in a Costco case?
Kirkland Signature bottled water normally comes in a 40-bottle (16.9-fl oz) count, but 36-count cases are also offered.
Why does Costco not have any water available?
At Costco, the lack of water may be caused by supply chain problems and a recent rise in consumer demand.
Is there a limit on water purchases at Costco?
Yes, Costco has placed restrictions on the buying of bottled water and other basic commodities in response to supply issues and growing demand.
How much does a 40-pack of water weigh?
A 40-pack of bottled water typically weighs roughly 36 pounds (approximately 16.3 kg).