News Summary
Costco is set to open its first standalone gas station in Mission Viejo, California, by spring 2026. The gas station will feature 40 fuel pumps, exclusively for Costco members, and aims to attract customers with competitive pricing as California faces high gas prices. Located at the Mission Viejo Freeway Center, the project will begin construction in late 2025 and is expected to positively impact the local economy and community.
Mission Viejo to Welcome Costco’s First Standalone Gas Station by Spring 2026
Mission Viejo, California, is set to become home to Costco’s first standalone gas station by spring 2026. The facility will be located at 25732 El Paseo, conveniently situated just off the Interstate 5 Freeway and approximately two miles from the nearest Costco retail outlet.
The planned gas station will feature a total of 40 fuel pumps and will exclusively serve Costco members. This unique arrangement is designed to drive membership traffic while providing competitive fuel pricing to its customers. The average gas price in California currently stands at around $4.65 per gallon, a factor that many expect will attract drivers seeking lower fuel costs.
The planned site is located within the Mission Viejo Freeway Center, a shopping area that includes major retailers such as Krispy Kreme, Petco, and Best Buy. As part of the development process, the project involves the demolition of a closed Bed Bath & Beyond store, with city approval obtained in March. Grading and building permits for the site are now under review, while construction is scheduled to start in fall 2025.
Details of the Gas Station Project
Costco’s gas station in Mission Viejo will not include a convenience store or additional retail space, which diverges from the common configuration of many gas stations today. This decision aligns with Costco’s strategy to focus solely on fuel sales, challenging traditional industry norms. Industry experts suggest that launching a gas-only station might be a bold move in an era of growing energy concerns and a shift towards electric vehicles.
By offering discounted fuel prices, Costco aims to enhance its appeal as a destination for fuel purchases. Studies have shown that price is the primary motivator for consumers when selecting a gas station, meaning competitive fuel pricing could significantly impact the station’s success.
Community and Economic Impact
The introduction of a Costco gas station is anticipated to have positive implications for local residents, who may benefit from reduced fuel costs and increased convenience. The new facility will be the company’s largest gas station to date, marking an expanded footprint in the gas retail market. Mission Viejo officials have expressed optimism regarding the potential economic benefits and job creation associated with this project.
Mayor Bob Ruesch has indicated excitement surrounding the new business partnership and its significance for the local community. The initiative aligns with Costco’s broader strategy of increasing its gas station presence, as evidenced by strong fuel sales reported in the company’s latest earnings call.
Summary
Costco’s standalone gas station in Mission Viejo will serve as an innovative project that focuses on fuel sales exclusively, without accompanying retail options. With construction set to commence in late 2025 and a projected opening in spring 2026, this development promises to meet the fueling needs of local residents while tapping into Costco’s competitive pricing strategy.
As the average fuel price in California hovers around $4.65 per gallon, the potential for significant customer engagement and satisfaction with Costco’s offerings looks promising. This initiative reflects both a strategic expansion for Costco and an opportunity for the local economy.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Costco Plans First Standalone Gas Station in Mission Viejo
Costco to Open Largest Gas Station in Mission Viejo
Costco to Open Its 14th Store in Orange County
Additional Resources
- Orange County Register
- SFGate
- CSP Daily News
- Fox Business
- Patch
- Wikipedia: Costco
- Google Search: Costco gas station
- Google Scholar: Costco gas station
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Costco
- Google News: Costco gas station
Author: STAFF HERE MISSION VIEJO WRITER
MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER The MISSION VIEJO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMissionViejo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Mission Viejo, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Oso Fit 5K Fun Run and Community Health Fair, Walk Against Drugs & Community Fair, and National Night Out. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Mission Viejo Chamber of Commerce and Providence Mission Hospital Mission Viejo, plus leading businesses in retail and education that power the local economy such as The Shops at Mission Viejo, Capistrano Unified School District, and Amazon Delivery Station. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
