6 Groceries Frugal Retirees Buy at Costco Ahead of Spring 2026
Written by
Sean Bryant
Edited by
Zuri Anderson
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If you’re a retiree trying to stretch your grocery budget, Costco might be the best place to stock up before spring arrives. As the seasons change, prices can vary, and a little planning now can make a big difference in how much you end up spending.
Let’s take a look at the top grocery items retirees should purchase at Costco before spring arrives and how each one can help you save money and simplify your life.
Organic Canned Vegetables and Beans
Costco canned goods are usually cheaper in winter due to strong supply and less competition from fresh vegetables. Items like beans, corn, diced tomatoes and mixed veggies are affordable ingredients for soups, stews, chili and casseroles.
Since most canned goods have a long shelf life, you can stock up now at lower prices and have everything you need when it’s time to cook this spring.Â
Kirkland Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Olive oil prices usually follow global harvest patterns, so they tend to increase during spring and summer. Costco’s bulk bottles offer some of the best cost-per-ounce savings compared to your local grocery store.
Olive oil can be a heart-healthy alternative for retirees. It’s perfect for roasting vegetables, making dressings or most other everyday cooking tasks.
Frozen Chicken Breasts or Thighs
As the spring and summer grilling season approaches, the prices of most poultry products tend to rise. Costco’s frozen bags allow retirees to portion out meals, helping to reduce waste. Chicken is an excellent source of high-quality protein for your meals at a low cost per serving, especially when bought in the winter.
Salmon (Frozen or Fresh When on Sale)
Salmon prices tend to rise as spring approaches and demand increases. Costco’s frozen salmon maintains consistent quality and is sold in single servings. Additionally, they often have sales on fresh salmon, making it a great time to purchase. While these are sold as full slabs, you can easily cut them into single servings before freezing.
Salmon is high in omega-3s, which support heart and brain health, both important for retirees. Purchase your salmon today and freeze it for the summer to save money in the long run.
Frozen Berries
As the spring harvest begins, fresh berries tend to become more expensive. This makes buying frozen berries in late winter a smart way to save money. Like many items, Costco’s bulk sizes offer some of the lowest per-ounce prices.Â
While fresh berries taste great in smoothies, yogurt, dessert or by themselves, they have a major drawback. Their shelf life is very short, which leads to a lot of food waste. Buying frozen berries still provides all the nutrients, helps keep costs down and reduces how much ends up in the trash.
Canned Tuna or Salmon
Canned tuna or salmon is a great choice for quick lunches or high-protein meals when you don’t feel like cooking. The price per can is usually much lower than at the grocery store, and since it doesn’t require refrigeration, cans have a very long shelf life.
Editor’s note: Prices are accurate as of Jan 29, 2026. Prices and availability may vary by location.
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