This blog was updated: I felt the need to explain this in greater detail.

This is unofficial and temporary. Situation may be different at your Costco location. Use this information at your own discretion.

Due to Covid-19, Costco now opens one hour early, 9am – 10am for customers 60 or older. Younger customers are allowed in at regular business hour of 10 AM.

At the beginning of the pandemic, there were a lot of people over 60 lining up at the gate at 9AM. The line for 60 and older would last for more than an hour. But now, after three months of hoarding, customers of all ages have slowed down. Now, at 9AM, only a small number of customers over 60 are showing up. Those customers will be let in quick. After that, Costco is open for everyone – little past 9AM – unofficial business hour.

Last month I arrived at Costco at 9:30 AM and waited in line for 45 minutes. This worked out well with my work schedule. So, today, I went to Costco at 9:30 AM again. But, this time, there was no line. The gate was opened for everyone. Small number of customers 60 or older were already in the warehouse.

Official opening hour for Costco is 10AM. But, if you go to Costco at 9:10 – 9:15 AM, there is a good chance you can get in without waiting in line. Check Costco’s Covid Update page for special business hours. At this rate, they may soon stop catering for customers 60 and older. Maybe they will open at 9:30AM for customers 60 and older. Maybe customers 60 and older will be given with “Cut in line” privilege, & etc… I am pretty sure they are having meetings about this.

This pandemic is a horrible thing. At the same time, it’s fascinating to witness what’s happening in the world. And it’s an honor to fight this together with you. Please take care.