Costco Expands Gas Access With First-Ever Standalone Stations

New standalone Costco gas stations aim to reduce wait times for members in Mission Viejo, California.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 10:40am

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A close-up photograph of a shiny, chrome-finished gas pump nozzle resting on a sleek, black surface, conveying a sense of premium quality and precision.Costco's new standalone gas stations aim to provide members with more convenient access to the retailer's discounted fuel.Mission Viejo Today

Costco Wholesale is opening its first-ever standalone gas stations in Mission Viejo, California, allowing members to access discounted fuel without having to wait in long lines at the gas pumps attached to the company's warehouse stores.

Why it matters

This move by Costco represents a strategic shift to better serve its members by providing more convenient access to its discounted gas prices, which are a major perk of Costco membership. Standalone gas stations could help alleviate congestion at the company's traditional in-store gas stations, which often see long wait times, especially on weekends and holidays.

The details

The new standalone Costco gas stations in Mission Viejo will feature the same discounted fuel prices and Costco branding as the gas stations attached to the company's warehouse stores. However, by being located separately from the main Costco buildings, the standalone stations are expected to reduce wait times and provide a more streamlined fueling experience for Costco members.

  • Costco is opening the first of its standalone gas stations in Mission Viejo, California in 2026.

The players

Costco Wholesale

A membership-only warehouse club that provides a wide selection of merchandise and is known for its discounted gasoline prices for members.

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What’s next

Costco plans to monitor the success of the standalone gas stations in Mission Viejo and may consider expanding the standalone model to other high-traffic Costco locations if it proves effective at reducing wait times and improving the fueling experience for members.

The takeaway

Costco's new standalone gas stations represent an innovative approach to providing members with more convenient access to the company's discounted fuel, which is a major draw for Costco shoppers. If successful, this model could be replicated at other high-volume Costco locations to enhance the overall member experience.