Costco to Open Largest Gas Station in Mission Viejo

An artist's rendering of the upcoming Costco gas station in Mission Viejo, designed for exclusive member use.

News Summary

Costco is set to launch its largest gas station and first fuel-only location in Mission Viejo. Featuring 40 gas pumps exclusively for members, this innovative facility aims to provide affordable fuel options without retail distractions. Conveniently located off the I-5 freeway, the gas station is expected to begin construction in fall 2025, with an opening forecasted for spring 2026. This project signifies Costco’s response to the rising fuel demands in California, filling a critical gap in the fuel market.

Mission Viejo will soon be home to Costco’s largest gas station and its first fuel-only location. The new facility, set to feature 40 gas pumps with no accompanying retail or convenience store space, will be designated exclusively for Costco members. This innovative project seeks to provide affordable fuel options without the common retail distractions typically found at gas stations.

The planned site for this gas station is located at the Mission Viejo Freeway Center, specifically at 25732 El Paseo, right off the I-5 freeway. This ideal location is conveniently situated between La Paz Road and Oso Parkway and is near a popular Krispy Kreme doughnut shop, making it easily accessible for drivers commuting along this busy route.

City officials have moved forward with granting approval for the overall plans back in March. Currently, grading and building permits for the gas station are being reviewed prior to the commencement of construction. It is anticipated that construction will initiate in the fall of 2025, with an expected opening date in spring 2026.

This development marks a departure from conventional gas station models, as around 80% of these facilities in the U.S. typically offer additional retail spaces for convenience items, food, and beverages. The choice to build a gas-only station reflects Costco’s strategy to cater specifically to fuel needs without the additional profit margins derived from other sales avenues like food and beverages.

Experts in the energy sector suggest that Costco’s gas-only station could fill a significant gap in California’s fuel market, which has been noted to have a higher ratio of drivers to gas stations compared to the national average. As fuel prices remain a key consideration for consumers—72% of motorists indicate that price is their primary motivation in selecting where to purchase gas—the new Costco station is likely to attract a steady stream of customers seeking economical fuel options.

In addition to the Mission Viejo gas station project, Costco is actively expanding its presence in Orange County with plans for a new store in Lake Forest. This new store is slated to be Costco’s 14th location in the county, featuring a substantial 160,811 square-foot layout. The site will replace a closed movie theater and include amenities such as a tire center.

Previously, there were proposals to establish a gas station in Lake Forest; however, those plans were abandoned in favor of moving forward with the Mission Viejo gas station. This strategic shift suggests that Costco is focusing on areas with strong demand for low-priced fuel without the complexities of a traditional retail setup.

The upcoming Costco gas station in Mission Viejo exemplifies the retailer’s innovative approach to meeting customer needs in a market often characterized by rising fuel costs. As construction gets underway in the next couple of years, residents of Mission Viejo and surrounding areas can anticipate greater access to affordable fuel within their community.