Costco is the undisputed king of offering bulk savings. Since 1983, this Pacific Northwest success story has negotiated directly with manufacturers worldwide, passing those savings to members. Think deep discounts on everything from groceries to household goods to wine to electronics to precious metals.

But for many Portlanders, especially those living along or on a tight budget, determining if a membership pays off requires careful calculation. Costco recently bumped membership fees to $65 for its basic Gold Star level and $130 for it premium Executive offering. That's real money — but for millions of families worldwide, it's still a bargain.