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Costco Wholesale has earned a reputation as one of the best retail employers in the United States.
Known for treating employees better than most big-box competitors, Costco consistently ranks high when it comes to pay, benefits, and opportunities for advancement.
But as the cost of living continues to rise and workers demand more transparency, it’s important to ask: how much does Costco really pay in 2025?
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In this in-depth guide, we uncover what it’s really like to work at Costco—from the starting wage for new hires to the salaries of warehouse managers.
We’ll also look at how fast you can earn raises, what kinds of bonuses are available, and whether the benefits live up to the company’s positive reputation.
If you’re thinking about applying or just curious about how Costco stacks up against other employers, this article gives you the facts you need.
How Much Do Costco Employees Get Paid in 2025?
In 2025, Costco continues to lead the retail industry in wages for hourly employees. The company operates under a tiered pay structure where employees are rewarded for tenure, position, and performance. Even entry-level workers receive a base wage well above the federal minimum.
Average Hourly Pay by Role
| Role | Average Hourly Pay |
|---|---|
| Front-End Assistant | $20.00 – $23.00 |
| Cashier | $22.00 – $25.00 |
| Stock Associate | $22.00 – $27.00 |
| Forklift Driver | $25.00 – $30.00 |
| Pharmacy Technician | $27.00 – $35.00 |
| Meat Cutter | $28.00 – $36.00 |
Salaried Roles
| Role | Average Annual Salary |
| Supervisor | $70,000 – $85,000 |
| Assistant Warehouse Manager | $90,000 – $110,000 |
| Warehouse Manager | $110,000 – $150,000 |
| Regional Manager | $160,000 – $200,000+ |
Costco’s approach to wages is rooted in a belief that well-paid employees are more productive, loyal, and customer-focused. That philosophy is evident in the generous pay scales and structured wage increases.
Which States Pay the Most (and the Least)?
While Costco maintains a relatively consistent national pay scale, cost-of-living adjustments and local wage laws do cause some variation. Here’s how average hourly wages compare for front-line employees in 2025:
Top 5 Highest-Paying States
| State | Average Hourly Pay |
| California | $25.50 |
| Washington | $25.00 |
| New York | $24.75 |
| Oregon | $24.50 |
| Massachusetts | $24.00 |
5 States with the Lowest Average Pay
| State | Average Hourly Pay |
| Alabama | $21.00 |
| Mississippi | $21.25 |
| Arkansas | $21.50 |
| Nebraska | $21.50 |
| West Virginia | $21.75 |
Even in lower-paying states, Costco’s starting wage still exceeds most local competitors. Furthermore, employees in every location receive structured raises based on tenure.
Raises, Bonuses, and Promotions: How Fast Can You Grow?
Costco employees don’t have to wait years for a raise. The company is known for providing regular wage increases through a system that rewards longevity and performance.
Raises
- Employees receive raises every 1,000 hours worked (about six months full-time)
- Typical raises range from $0.50 to $1.00 per hour
- Higher positions see annual performance-based salary reviews
Bonuses
- Annual bonuses for long-term employees (after five years)
- Holiday bonuses for part-time and full-time staff
- Manager bonuses tied to warehouse performance and profit margins
Promotion Pathways
| Entry-Level Role | Promotion Track |
| Front-End Assistant | Cashier → Supervisor → Assistant Manager |
| Stocker | Forklift Driver → Receiving Lead → Supervisor |
| Pharmacy Tech | Lead Tech → Pharmacy Manager |
Promotion timelines vary, but ambitious employees can move from entry-level to supervisor roles in as little as 18–24 months. Costco strongly favors internal promotions and often grooms its next managers from within the ranks.
Benefits You Didn’t Expect from Costco Jobs
Beyond high wages, Costco offers one of the best benefits packages in the retail sector—even for part-time employees. Let’s look at the core perks.
Health and Insurance
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents
- Low premiums and excellent plan options
- Life insurance, long-term disability, and supplemental coverage
Financial Benefits
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- Annual contribution to employee retirement accounts
- Generous stock purchase plan for eligible employees
Lifestyle Perks
- Paid time off (vacation, personal, and sick leave)
- Paid holidays and Sunday premium pay
- Free Costco membership
- Discounts on services like travel, auto, and legal support
Education & Career Support
- Tuition reimbursement for approved programs
- Training programs for specialized departments
- Leadership development for potential managers
Many of these benefits kick in after 90 days of employment, and part-time workers qualify for most of the same coverage as full-timers.
Can You Actually Live on a Costco Salary?
Let’s run a few real-world scenarios to determine whether a Costco employee can afford a decent lifestyle in 2025. We’ll compare estimated monthly income to cost of living in three different types of cities.
Estimated Monthly Income (40 hrs/week)
| Role | Monthly Pay (Pre-Tax) |
| Front-End Assistant | $3,500 |
| Stocker | $3,800 |
| Cashier | $3,900 |
| Pharmacy Tech | $4,400 |
Estimated Monthly Expenses
| City | Rent + Basic Expenses |
| Kansas City, MO | $2,200 |
| Denver, CO | $2,800 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $3,600+ |
In an affordable city like Kansas City, even a newer Costco employee earning $3,500/month can live comfortably while saving money.
In places like Denver or L.A., it becomes harder—but still possible—with careful budgeting or roommate arrangements. And with raises every six months, the financial picture tends to improve quickly.
Conclusion: Is It Worth Working at Costco in 2025?
In a word: yes. Costco has proven itself as a top-tier employer in the retail industry, and its pay structure reflects that. With starting wages far above the national average and a clear system for raises, even new employees have something to look forward to beyond just a paycheck.
The company invests in its people and shows it through stable employment, fair wages, and access to meaningful benefits.
For someone looking to start fresh, leave behind the unpredictability of gig work, or join a company where loyalty is rewarded, Costco is a solid choice.
The path from entry-level to management is well-worn and encouraged internally. That means real opportunity—without needing a college degree.
While the work can be physically demanding and customer-facing roles aren’t always easy, the pros outweigh the cons for most.
Between the high base pay, the strong benefits, and the company culture of support and fairness, Costco remains one of the best employers for those looking to build a long-term career in retail.
FAQ
1. What is the starting pay at Costco in 2025?
Most entry-level roles start at $20/hour, with raises every 1,000 hours worked.
2. Do part-time employees get benefits?
Yes. Part-time workers are eligible for many of the same benefits as full-time employees after a short waiting period.
3. How often do employees receive raises?
Raises are typically awarded every 1,000 hours worked—roughly every 6 months full-time.
4. What is Sunday premium pay?
Employees working on Sundays receive time-and-a-half pay, increasing their hourly rate for that day.
5. Can you get promoted without a college degree?
Absolutely. Most managers started as hourly employees and were promoted internally.
6. Does Costco offer tuition reimbursement?
Yes, for approved programs and job-related education.
7. Is it possible to make over $100,000 working at Costco?
Yes. Supervisors, assistant managers, and warehouse managers often earn six figures.
8. What benefits kick in after 90 days?
Health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, and employee discounts typically begin after 90 days.
9. How competitive is it to get hired at Costco?
Very. Due to its reputation, Costco receives many applications per opening, so having availability and work ethic helps.
10. Does Costco offer bonuses?
Yes. Long-term employees are eligible for annual bonuses, and managers receive performance-based bonuses.