Costco opened its first standalone gas station in Mission Viejo, California, on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. Located at 25732 El Paseo, the facility offers fuel at $4.59 per gallon, which AAA reports is approximately 70 cents lower than the current Orange County average of $5.30.
Costco Membership Requirements and Mission Viejo Site Details
The new station operates without an attached warehouse, meaning members cannot access the retail store, complimentary samples, or the $1.50 hot dogs at this location. Access to the fuel is restricted exclusively to Costco members.
The site features 40 pumps and sits just off the 5 freeway, roughly one hour from Downtown L.A. Operating hours are 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays, 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Saturdays, and 6 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Sundays.
Did You Know? The Mission Viejo station is the first independent gas station in Costco’s history, decoupling fuel sales from its traditional warehouse club model.
California Gas Tax Increase and Senate Bill 1
The station’s debut precedes a state gas tax increase that took effect July 1. According to state records, the gasoline excise tax rose by 2.2 cents per gallon, bringing the updated rate to approximately 63.4 cents per gallon from 61.2 cents.
This adjustment maintains California’s position as the state with the highest gas tax in the U.S. For a driver filling a standard 15-gallon tank, this increase adds roughly 33 cents to the cost. Diesel prices also rose from 46.6 cents to 48.2 cents per gallon.
The tax hike is mandated by the 2017 “Road Repair and Accountability Act,” also known as Senate Bill 1, which requires fuel taxes to be recalibrated every July based on inflation.
Potential Impact on California Drivers
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the new standalone Costco gas station located?
It is located at 25732 El Paseo in Mission Viejo, Orange County, near the 5 freeway.
Who can use the Mission Viejo Costco gas station?
The station is accessible exclusively to Costco members.
How much did the California gas tax increase on July 1?
The gasoline excise tax increased by 2.2 cents per gallon, according to the Road Repair and Accountability Act.
Would you visit a Costco gas station if it didn’t have a warehouse attached?
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