Buying Hearing Aids From Costco Vs. UpState Hearing – What’s The Difference?

When it comes to investing in better hearing, there are a lot of options available on the market and it can be difficult knowing where to go.

With a Costco store not too far from our offices, we are regularly asked: “What’s the difference between buying hearing aids from UpState Hearing compared to buying them from Costco?”

They want to know how much Costco hearing aids cost, what we offer, and the differences between the two.

With so many important differences, from service to repair warranty, this article will help you make an informed decision on the right option for you and who you should partner with to achieve better hearing.

In truth, there are many factors that may contribute to your decision, and it’s not always necessarily price.

What’s The Biggest Difference?

The reason why this comparison is so difficult to define is that when you visit UpState Hearing, you’re getting much more than just the best in hearing technology. You are entering a partnership that promises to care for your hearing health for life.

After caring for the hearing health of over 10,000 people across California, we have learned that hearing is a journey rather than an end goal, and hearing aids are just a small piece of the puzzle.

From the comprehensive hearing assessments to ongoing support, assistance, and back-up that supports you throughout your journey, you have a true partner.

To help you understand the key differences, we have developed a comparison chart to outline the benefits of choosing both Costco and UpState Hearing.

While Costco offers free hearing tests to determine if you could be helped by a hearing aid, UpState Hearing offers a comprehensive hearing assessment.

comprehensive hearing assessment reviews all areas of your hearing health to allow us to pinpoint the exact cause of your hearing loss, ensuring we can pick up any major signs of serious medical conditions. This involves a non-invasive process where we take an in-depth look into both your eardrums and your brain processing systems to help us indicate the degree of your hearing loss and what may be contributing to its severity.

Should anything happen to your device, you can rest assured that you are covered for 3 years with our Repair Warranty and Loss & Damage Replacement Insurance.  You will also receive Complete Hearing Instrument Care (CHIC) for the lifetime of your new hearing aids. This includes regular service and the supplies you may need.

We are Here to help in any way we can

How Much Are Hearing Aids At Costco?

At Costco, you are covered for three years for Repair Warranties and two years for Loss & Damage Replacement Insurance. Other supplies and services must be paid for at the time of service

When it comes to price, Costco offers their Kirkland Signature 9s at $1,119.99, a marginally different investment compared to the award-winning care you receive with your purchase at UpState Hearing.

Although their prices are lower, they do come with a compromise – your hearing aids will be locked, which means that no other provider or specialist can make any adjustments to them. You will only be able to make any adjustments by visiting a Costco store.

Not only that, but if you find you can’t pay all at once, we offer the option of a payment plan via CareCredit. We can also take a look into your insurance benefits using a specialist member of our team.

Let’s also not forget that UpState Hearing offers a 14-day test drive on all new technology with no commitment or obligation, something that Costco does not offer.

You may find yourself benefiting from Costco’s flexible hours, as they are open on weekends and evenings, whereas UpState is open during traditional business hours.

Despite this, UpState Hearing is proud to offer Virtual Appointments that allow you to converse face-to-face with a specialist from the comfort of your own home. That way, you can be supported throughout your hearing healthcare journey wherever you are.

We Want To Help Californian’s Hear Better

Whether you decide to start your journey with UpState Hearing or Costco, taking the first step toward getting help is the most important part of addressing your hearing challenges.

Hearing loss is complicated and there is a range of factors that contribute toward its severity dependent on person to person.  Your individual challenges and requirements are unique to you and only you can know what to do next.

If you have any questions or want to know more about our services, then you can request a callback on this page and we will be in touch shortly.

Schedule Your Hearing Assessment

Take the first step toward better hearing today and discover how our expert team can help you reconnect with the sounds that matter most.

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This place is awesome and helpful!
Mike Wells
3 days ago
They do a great job of taking care of you and your hearing aids.
Sha was great!!❤️
Cynthia Harris
4 days ago
Stephen and the other staff are great. They’re attentive, educated in their field, and caring. Very supportive to their patients’ every need. I would recommend this hearing care clinic to all family and friends.
Karen Meyer
1 week ago
I highly recommend Upstate Hearing Instruments. I’ve received great care and training for my hearing aids. They’ve worked with me and helped me adjust to using hearing aids. I love being able to hear better and wear my hearing aids everyday. There is a learning curve and they’ve been very helpful. I’m so glad I had such a positive experience as a fort time user. The education they offer really helps make the adjustment to using hearing aids easy!
Ellen Mccormick
1 week ago
Brad Feamster
2 weeks ago
mjcentury21
2 weeks ago
Laura Eaton
2 weeks ago
Not rushed excellent individualized care. Thorough explanation of care and follow up. Very reasonably priced.
Treat Adventures
2 weeks ago
I was overall pleased with my visit to Upstate. I experienced no high pressure sales pitch. They evaluated my hearing for free and were patient in explaining my options. I would recommend Upstate based on my experience.
Martha Butow
3 weeks ago
Took their time. Friendly and professional.
Jarl Viale
3 weeks ago
Everything went great, quite impressive thank you
Response from the owner:Thank you, Jarl! Appreciate the review.
Karin KC Corbet
3 weeks ago
Scott is knowledgeable and kind! I enjoyed the appointment with him.
Kathleen Breslin
3 weeks ago
Very helpful from front desk with Teresa to great care by Scott.
Dale Brown
4 weeks ago
Very knowledgeable staff provided the most comprehensive hearing exam I've ever had and matched my needs with excellent hardware and software! Professional in every sense and a pleasure to deal with
Ann Morningstar
1 month ago
lonnie day
1 month ago
Very professional, they live by selling a product, they sell by supporting their customers who are happy with their product or if unhappy, go the extra mile to make it right. They have done that for me, I am a customer of over 35 years.
Trisha Wilburn
2 months ago
The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable, nice atmosphere too.
Response from the owner:Thank you so much, Trisha! We hope to see you again soon!
Jesus Castillo
2 months ago
Response from the owner:Thank you, Jesus!
Fay Cornell
2 months ago
Every time I have went in to see Jake for just a general check up, he’s been very polite and very helpful shows me different ways that my hearing aids will work with my phone and how I can use it to the best of my ability. The hearing aids he got for me work great. I don’t feel I am wearing them. They’re very light and very comfortable. He troubleshoots anything I have concern about. I am glad I went to Upstate to get my new hearing aids. The best I’ve ever had. I am 80 years old and I’ve had a few different hearing aids. Thank you very much Jake and thank you, Upstate hearing.

12/15/25 The lady I had today was very easy to work with easy to ask questions with and she answered to everything for me. I’m sorry I can’t pronounce her name. But she’s a beautiful, friendly, wonderful person and I was glad to have her help me. I’m looking forward to seeing her again in a couple of months and get my new hearing aids.
I recommend Upstate hearing to everyone
Response from the owner:Wow! Thank you so much for your kind words, Fay. We’re so happy to hear that Jake has been helpful and that your new hearing aids are working so well. They’re meant to make life easier, and it’s wonderful to know they’re doing just that for you.
I will make sure I pass on your kind words to our staff. They will be thrilled to know they made your visit comfortable and easy. Thank you for recommending us. We appreciate you being part of our UpState Family and hope to see you soon!
Pamela Palmer
2 months ago
It was a quick and thorough appointment. We both are looking forward to finding the pair that best suits me. A very positive day.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Pamela! We’re so happy it was a positive day and can’t wait to help you find the pair that’s just right for you.
Eric Rapport
2 months ago
Skilled and knowledgeable professionals with practical advice, short wait times, friendly and helpful assistants.
Response from the owner:Eric, thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We truly value our patients satisfaction. It is the greatest compliment.
David Steen
2 months ago
Great people to work with. I’ve received A1 service every time I’ve been there!
Response from the owner:David, this is the best compliment to our staff. Thank you so much for your review! We aren't perfect, but we do strive for perfection. Thank you again!
Response from the owner:Thank you, Richard!
Rick Knowles
2 months ago
My experience was an awesome visit. Way more in depth than I have ever had. Stephen was very pleasant and made me feel comfortable.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your wonderful feedback. We’re thrilled to hear that your visit was such a positive experience. Stephen takes great pride in making patients feel comfortable, and your kind words will mean a lot to him. We truly appreciate you sharing this and look forward to seeing you soon!
Christine Maple
2 months ago
Well I keep forgetting his name, but he is so very nice and explains things so I can understand!
Response from the owner:Christine, thank you for the kind words! You’re not alone, I get names mixed up here as well. Names aside, we’re so happy to hear he was friendly and explained everything in a way that made sense. We truly appreciate you sharing your experience.
Allison Ashby
2 months ago
Attention to patients needs and quality of my hearing aidsis outstanding! Don't let your inability to hear or old hearing aids deter you from getting the help you need! I have.
Meniere's Disease and the care and service met my needs.
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing your experience, Allison! We’re so glad we could provide the care and hearing aids that work for you, especially while managing Meniere’s Disease. Your words are such an encouragement to others who might be hesitant to seek help. Hearing well is life changing, and we’re honored to be part of your journey.
Carl Brndt
3 months ago
Very professional and friendly staff. Would recommend you to anyone who has a hearing issue.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Carl. Referring patients is the greatest compliment! We strive to provide you and your loved ones with the best care.
Danny Casey
3 months ago
Response from the owner:Thank you for your review, Danny!
Thomas Stovall
3 months ago
Did my hearing test again. Was able to track any changes in my hearing since my last visit just over a year ago. Good folks and very professional.
Response from the owner:Thomas, thank you for the wonderful feedback. We're glad the retest helped you track changes over the past year and that you found our team professional and friendly. Appreciate you trusting us with your care.
Allen Schroeder
4 months ago
Kevin has given me the best help I’ve received so far at Upstate Hearing. Very smart, kind and skilled young man.
Response from the owner:Allen, thank you so much for the glowing review! We’re delighted to hear Kevin provided the best help you’ve experienced at Upstate Hearing. He has been a huge asset to our team. We look forward to all your future visits with us.
Debby Nichols
4 months ago
Wonderful service, helpful insights. King people. Kevin was very easy to work with and knowledgeable. Thank you team!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words, Debby! We're thrilled to hear you had a wonderful experience and that Kevin was easy to work with and knowledgeable. Your feedback means a lot to the team. We will be sure to pass this on to Kevin.
Carol Wigington
4 months ago
The front desk staff was very pleasant. The Dr. was thorough, pleasant and patient. Very nice experience given the circumstances.
Response from the owner:Thank you Carol. We're delighted to hear that our front desk staff and Hearing Instrument Specialist provided a pleasant and thorough experience. We strive to make every visit as comfortable as possible. Thank you for being a part of our UpState Family!
I went and got my hearing tested and everyone was kind and courteous. I recommended everyone who is curious about their hearing to come to UpState.
Response from the owner:Thank you, Mitchell. We are thrilled to hear that our team at UpState provided a kind and courteous experience during your hearing test. We truly appreciate your recommendation and look forward to helping others that are curious about their hearing.
Debi Bunting
5 months ago
Always happy and helpful
Always on time
Response from the owner:Thank you, Debi. We love what we do! We strive to always be consistently happy, helpful, and punctual. We appreciate your kind words and look forward to continuing to provide excellent service!
Timber Johnson
5 months ago
Got referred here for a hearing test. Extremely nice staff here.
Response from the owner:We're so glad to hear that our staff made your hearing test experience a positive one. We appreciate your kind words and are here to help with any future needs!
Sharon Pierce
5 months ago
My mother has been coming here for years! Hearing aids are cleaned for free, and all the staff are helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly. They keep up on the latest technology.
Response from the owner:Thank you for sharing this! We’re so glad your mother has trusted us for years. Our team takes pride in our service. We truly appreciate your family being part of our UHI family.
Charlie Harper
5 months ago
I have been having Upstate Hearing help me with my hearing loss and keeping my instruments working at their best. The service is always great and the staff is friendly and helpful.
Response from the owner:Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad to hear that we have been able to support you with your hearing needs and keep your instruments working their best. Our team truly appreciates your trust and looks forward to continuing to provide you with great service.
Response from the owner:Thank you for the 5 stars! It’s a great compliment to us.
Pete Richard
5 months ago
Response from the owner:Thank you Pete! Appreciate the review!
Wyman Carrier
5 months ago
Response from the owner:Thank you for your review!
D_ Anderson
6 months ago
This place is awesome. Staff is extremely helpful and positive. I was very hesitant going in because I’m 42 and just didn’t think I needed hearing aids. Turns out I needed them and what difference it has made. I am sorry I waited so long to get my hearing deficiencies addressed and very happy this is where I chose. Jake and the crew are awesome and very knowledgeable. I have gone in a few times since I’ve had my hearing aids and the staff is just the best. Extremely helpful awesome folks. Go and see them!
Response from the owner:Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear you had a great experience. Our team works hard to provide great service and it means a lot to know we delivered for you. We look forward to serving you again and appreciate you choosing us.
Jack Becker
11 months ago
5stars great caring service. Scott is the best. Love my aids.would not go anywhere else.
Wonderful people and very helpful
Gary Lackey
1 year ago
Absolute great service. I felt the price was high but still purchased because of Customer Service.
Larry Davis
1 year ago
Joshua went out of his way to open their office on a Saturday to assist with fitting me with my first set of hearing aids. He was very thorough and listened hen I had a question or concern. His knowledge was spot on and made it a great and fun experience for me. Everyone else I spoke with was kind and caring, helping me navigate through this. I fully recommend UpState to anyone who needs hearing aids or just advice. Thanks to all of you :)
Jennifer Worden
1 year ago
I couldn't get in to see the local audiologist for 4 months. But Upstate Hearing got me in, evaluated and a new hearing aid within a month. Very friendly staff and technician. He even tried to fix my old hearing aid.
Les Williams
1 year ago
Joshua was great a patient with me helping to make sure we selected the right hearing aid. The model of allowing patients time to process the fitting is perfect.
Miguel Moreno
1 year ago
In a time when service seems to be non-existent, this is not the case with UpState Hearing. Joshua went above and beyond the call and was a pleasure to do business with. I recommend him and his crew wholeheartedly. It's hard to find places like this anymore, and I feel lucky to have found this one. Thanks for everything!

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