We Compared Prices for 21 Items at Trader Joe's and Costco – A Clear Pattern Emerged — Shopping

At first glance, Trader Joe's and Costco couldn't be more different. TJ's stores are fun, quirky, and smaller than most supermarkets. Costco is the complete opposite — utilitarian and truly cavernous in size. Yet they actually have a lot in common. For example, both are known for carrying a wide array of organic foods, and both are known for offering some of the lowest prices in the industry.

Of course, shopping at Costco means buying, say, four pounds of quinoa instead of one, which requires a bigger up-front investment both in terms of money and pantry space. Which is a better deal? Can Costco's bulk prices beat Trader Joe's ounce for ounce?

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