Are Costco Gas Pumps Open 24 Hours: Understanding Their Operating Schedule
Are Costco Gas Pumps Open 24 Hours: Understanding Their Operating Schedule

Quick Answer: No, Costco gas pumps are not open 24 hours. Most Costco gas stations now operate Monday-Friday 6am-10pm, with weekend hours typically 6am-8:30pm Saturday and 6am-7:30pm Sunday. Hours vary by location, and stations close on major holidays including Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and July 4th. Check your local station hours before visiting.

Costco Gas Station Hours: What Changed in 2025

Costco made a major operational change in February 2025 by extending gas station hours nationwide. The new schedule gives members more flexibility to fuel up before or after work. This change proved hugely successful—CEO Ron Vachris reported two all-time highest gallon sales weeks in April 2025 following the extended hours rollout.

The extended hours significantly improved member satisfaction and station throughput. Instead of rushing to beat closing time, members now have a comfortable window from early morning until late evening. This represents Costco’s commitment to maximizing membership value.

Standard Operating Hours at Costco Gas Stations

Typical Weekday Schedule:
Most Costco gas stations across the United States now operate 6am-10pm Monday through Friday. This 16-hour window accommodates early commuters and late workers. The extended closing time means you can fuel up after dinner without rushing.

Weekend Hours:
Weekend schedules vary more than weekdays but typically follow these patterns:

  • Saturday: 6am-8:30pm at most locations
  • Sunday: 6am-7:30pm at most locations
  • Some high-traffic stations extend weekend hours
  • Hours may differ based on local demand

Gas station hours don’t always match warehouse hours. Many Costco gas stations stay open after the warehouse closes. You can fuel up without entering the main building as long as you have your membership card.

Regional Variations:
While most locations follow standard hours, some regions adjust schedules based on local factors. Always verify your specific station’s hours using our Costco Gas Price Tracker, which shows both prices and operating hours for 600+ locations.

Holiday Closures You Need to Know

Costco gas stations close completely on major holidays when warehouses shut down. Plan ahead for these closures to avoid showing up to locked pumps:

Full Closure Holidays:

  • New Year’s Day (January 1)
  • Easter Sunday
  • Memorial Day (last Monday in May)
  • Independence Day (July 4th)
  • Labor Day (first Monday in September)
  • Thanksgiving Day
  • Christmas Day (December 25)
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Other holidays may feature reduced hours rather than complete closures. Check your local station’s holiday schedule a few days in advance. This saves you from wasted trips during holiday periods.

Some locations post holiday hours at the pump area. The Costco app and website also update holiday schedules. Our price tracker shows special notices when stations have modified hours.

Recent Station Expansions and Improvements

Costco continues investing in gas station infrastructure throughout 2025. Several locations are expanding capacity to reduce wait times during peak periods.

Notable 2025 Expansions:

The Coon Rapids, Minnesota location received city council approval to double its fuel capacity from 10 to 20 pumps. The expansion addresses chronic traffic congestion where vehicle lines frequently spilled onto main roads during peak times.

Rochester, New York is adding eight pumps (four double-sided positions) during their current expansion project. The station closed in late September 2025 for approximately 28 days, with reopening expected by early November.

The most groundbreaking development: Costco is building their first-ever standalone gas station in Mission Viejo, California. This 40-pump facility will operate 5am-10pm daily starting spring 2026, offering membership-only access without an attached warehouse.

These expansions show Costco’s commitment to improving member experience at their 600+ gas locations across the United States.

Best Times to Visit for Faster Service

Strategic timing helps you avoid long lines at Costco gas stations. Understanding peak and off-peak patterns makes fueling up faster and less stressful.

Least Busy Times:

  • Early mornings (6am-8am): Opening hours offer the shortest wait times
  • Late evenings (8pm-10pm): Most shoppers have already fueled up
  • Tuesday-Thursday midday: Midweek lulls mean fewer cars
  • Sunday evenings: After 6pm crowds thin out significantly

Times to Avoid:

  • Saturday 9am-12pm: Weekend shoppers create peak traffic
  • Weekday afternoons (3pm-6pm): Post-work rush hits hard
  • Right after warehouse opening: Members combine shopping with fueling
  • Day before holidays: Everyone tops off before travel

The extended hours implemented in 2025 help distribute traffic more evenly throughout the day. Members no longer rush to fuel up before early closing times.

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What You Need to Access Costco Gas Pumps

Membership Requirement:
You must have a valid Costco membership to use their gas stations. Both Gold Star and Executive members can purchase fuel. The pump validates your membership card before authorizing payment.

Exception: Costco Shop Card holders can buy gas without a membership. This lets non-members access Costco’s lower fuel prices if they have a Shop Card.

Accepted Payment Methods:

Cash, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are not accepted at Costco gas pumps. This payment structure keeps transactions fast and uniform across all 600+ locations.

Why Costco Gas Stations Don’t Operate 24/7

Unlike many standalone gas stations, Costco operates on a membership-warehouse model. Their hours align with typical member shopping patterns rather than continuous operation.

Key Reasons:

  • Member-focused service: Hours match when members typically shop
  • Cost efficiency: Staffing 24/7 would increase operational costs
  • Security: Closed overnight hours reduce security concerns
  • Volume-based model: Costco relies on high daytime traffic for profitability
  • Quality control: Regular closing allows maintenance and cleaning

The current 16-hour weekday schedule provides excellent access without the overhead of 24/7 operations. This helps Costco maintain their low fuel prices—averaging 53 cents below competitors.

Station Features and Self-Service Convenience

Costco gas stations operate as self-service locations with member-friendly features:

Extra-Long Hoses:
All pumps feature extended hoses that reach either side of your vehicle. You don’t need to position your car perfectly—the hose stretches to your tank regardless of which side it’s on.

Multiple Fuel Grades:
Most stations offer regular (87 octane) and premium (91-93 octane) gasoline. Select locations also provide diesel fuel. All grades meet TOP TIER™ standards for engine performance and cleanliness.

Digital Membership Integration:
You can use your digital membership card from the Costco app at the pump. No need to carry your physical card—just scan from your phone.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Costco gas pumps open 24 hours?

No. Costco gas stations operate set hours, typically 6am-10pm Monday-Friday and slightly shorter weekend hours. They close overnight and on major holidays. Check your local station hours before visiting.

What time does Costco gas open in the morning?

Most Costco gas stations open at 6am on weekdays. Weekend opening times are typically 6am-7am depending on location. Early morning offers the shortest wait times.

Can I get gas at Costco if the warehouse is closed?

Yes, often. Many Costco gas stations operate independently from warehouse hours. Gas pumps may stay open after the main building closes. You only need your membership card—no warehouse entry required.

What holidays are Costco gas stations closed?

Costco gas stations close on New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. These match warehouse closure dates. Some locations may have reduced hours on other holidays.

What time is Costco gas least busy?

Early mornings (6am-8am) and late evenings (8pm-10pm) on weekdays offer the shortest lines. Midweek days are less crowded than weekends. Avoid Saturday mornings and weekday afternoons.

Do I need to enter the warehouse to buy gas?

No. You can access Costco gas pumps without entering the warehouse. Just bring your membership card and an accepted payment method. Gas stations often have separate entrances from the main building.

Why did Costco extend gas station hours?

Costco extended hours in February 2025 to improve member convenience and satisfaction. The change led to record fuel sales in April 2025. Extended hours reduce crowding and give members more flexibility for fill-ups.

Do all Costco warehouses have gas stations?

No. While most Costco locations include gas stations, not every warehouse has fuel service. Use our station locator to find Costco gas locations near you with current prices and hours.

Ready to find your nearest Costco gas station with current hours and prices? Check our real-time price tracker for 600+ locations. Need diesel? Visit our diesel station locator. Browse our complete guide library for more Costco gas tips and money-saving strategies.

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