Does Costco Offer Health Insurance? Full Guide for Full-Time and Part-Time Employees

Wondering if you’ll get health insurance working at Costco? The answer is a resounding yes — and not just for full-time employees. Costco offers comprehensive health insurance benefits to both full-time and part-time workers who meet the eligibility requirements.

This guide breaks down exactly what’s included, who qualifies, when coverage begins, and how Costco compares to other major employers in the U.S. If you’re considering applying for a job at Costco or already working there, this is everything you need to know.

Does Costco Really Offer Health Insurance to Part-Time Employees?

Yes. Unlike many retailers, Costco extends health coverage to part-time workers who consistently work 24+ hours per week. After a qualifying period — usually 180 days — eligible part-timers can enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance plans, just like their full-time counterparts.

This makes Costco one of the few large employers offering real healthcare access without requiring full-time status.

Health Insurance Benefits Offered by Costco in 2025

Costco’s health plans are designed to be comprehensive and affordable. Coverage typically includes:

• Medical insurance with several plan options (PPO, HSA-compatible plans)
• Prescription drug coverage with low copays
• Dental insurance (preventive care, basic procedures, orthodontics)
• Vision insurance (eye exams, glasses, lenses)
• Mental health services, including virtual counseling
• Access to telemedicine and 24/7 nurse lines

Plans are administered through trusted providers like Aetna and Delta Dental, and premiums are heavily subsidized by Costco to keep employee costs low.

How Much Does Health Insurance Cost at Costco?

The cost of coverage depends on your employment status and selected plan, but here’s a rough estimate:

• Individual coverage: $25–$40 per paycheck
• Family coverage: $80–$120 per paycheck

These rates are significantly lower than national averages, especially for retail workers. Costco covers a substantial portion of the total premium cost — up to 90% for individual plans in some cases.

Who Is Eligible for Health Insurance?

You must meet the following requirements to qualify for Costco’s health benefits:

• Be employed for at least 180 consecutive days
• Work an average of 24+ hours per week

Once you reach that threshold, you’ll receive an enrollment invitation and can select your plan during the open enrollment period or after a qualifying life event (such as marriage or birth).

When Does Coverage Begin?

Coverage typically begins at the start of the next month after you complete 180 days of continuous employment. So if you hit the 180-day mark on March 10, your benefits would usually begin on April 1.

Do Benefits Differ for Full-Time and Part-Time Employees?

In general, the coverage itself is the same for both full-time and eligible part-time workers. However, there are some differences in:

• Eligibility timeline: Full-timers may qualify slightly faster
• Cost-sharing: Premiums may be slightly higher for part-timers
• Additional perks: Some add-on benefits (like life insurance) may vary

But in terms of medical, dental, and vision — Costco keeps things very equitable, ensuring quality care is accessible to all qualifying staff.

Comparison: Costco vs Other Retail Employers

Employer	Health Insurance for Part-Time?	Waiting Period	Average Monthly Premium
Costco	Yes	180 days	$50–$100
Walmart	No	Full-time only	$120–$180
Target	Limited	Depends on store hours	$100–$150
Amazon	Yes	90 days	$90–$140

As you can see, Costco leads the way in providing accessible, low-cost health insurance across employment types.

What Other Healthcare Perks Are Included?

Beyond traditional insurance, Costco offers several extras to support your health:

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Discounts on prescriptions through in-store pharmacies
• Preventive care incentives (free checkups, screenings)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)

These programs help employees manage medical expenses and encourage preventative care.

Is Costco a Good Employer for Health Benefits?

If you’re looking for affordable, reliable healthcare coverage as a retail employee, Costco is one of the best employers in the U.S.. Their plans cover all the essentials, and they make it easier for part-time staff to gain access — something very few companies offer.

Explore Costco Jobs and Apply with Benefits

With low premiums, wide coverage, and strong support systems, Costco’s healthcare benefits are a key reason many workers stay for years — and build real careers there.