Everyone loves saving money at the pump, and Costco has once again been recognized by GasBuddy as the nation's lowest-priced fuel retailer. But does driving farther and waiting in line actually save money?
The answer depends on your situation. If you're already shopping at Costco, filling up before you leave can save several dollars on every tank and may even pay for your annual membership over the course of a year. However, if Costco requires a special trip, the extra driving, fuel used to get there, and time spent waiting can reduce—or even eliminate—those savings.
Many nearby gas stations also offer loyalty programs that can lower prices by several cents per gallon, making the difference much smaller than it first appears. Sometimes the most economical choice isn't simply the lowest posted price—it's the one that balances fuel cost, travel time, convenience, and how much your time is worth.
In Gold Canyon & Apache Junction, gas prices are ranging at $4.49 a gallon. Gilbert, Chandler & Mesa are coming in at around $4.39 a gallon. If you want to know the cheapest gas in Arizona check out GasBuddy.com.
Whether you're planning a summer road trip or simply filling up for the week, taking a moment to compare your options can help you keep a little more money in your pocket.
If you are interested in the Math, here is what I came up with using the location Gold Canyon, AZ to Costco 15 miles away:
Let's assume:
- Vehicle has an 18-gallon tank
- Costco price: $4.09/gallon
- Nearby station: $4.45/gallon (middle of your range)
- Difference: $0.36/gallon
Savings per fill-up:
18 gallons × $0.36 = $6.48 saved
Now let's look at the driving.
If Costco is 15 miles away and the closer station is 4 miles away, that's about 11 extra miles each way, or 22 extra miles if Costco isn't already on your route.
If your vehicle gets 25 MPG:
22 miles ÷ 25 MPG = 0.88 gallons burned
At $4.09/gallon:
0.88 × $4.09 = $3.60 in fuel just to make the extra trip.
That means your actual savings become approximately:
$6.48 − $3.60 = $2.88
Now add another factor:
- Waiting 5–10 minutes in line
- Extra driving time
- Wear and tear on the vehicle
Suddenly that "$6.48 savings" may only be worth a couple of dollars.
But...
If you're already going to Costco to shop, the equation changes dramatically.
You're making the trip anyway, so your extra driving cost is essentially zero.
Now you're truly saving around $6–7 every fill-up.
Fill up once a week?
That's roughly:
- $6.50 × 52 weeks = about $338 per year
That more than pays for the Costco membership.
Don't forget the rewards programs (Frys, Circle K, Maverick, etc.)
Many nearby stations offer:
- 3–10¢ off per gallon
- Grocery rewards
- Credit card cash back
- Fuel points
If your local station is:
$4.45
and you save 10¢
Your price becomes:
$4.35
Now Costco is only 26¢ cheaper.
Savings on an 18-gallon fill:
18 × $0.26 = $4.68
Now the convenience of filling up close to home starts looking pretty attractive.
Decisions .... Decisions! The all American we like things done quickly...faster the better for convenience sake and the more we can save we feel like we won!