Research Links Costco Openings to Property Value Increases in Specific Markets

A study by Silas Kwok of the Vancouver School of Economics analyzed Costco openings between 2002 and 2020. The research found that property values within five miles of newly opened Costco warehouses increased by as much as 7.9% in densely populated counties. This effect was not universal, with gains also noted at 5.2% in counties with above-average household income.

The findings suggest a localized economic effect rather than a universal premium associated with living near Costco. The property value increases were concentrated in specific markets that met criteria for high population density or above-average household income.