Costco has introduced a new bottled water option for its iconic hot dog combo, maintaining the price at $1.50 despite mixed reactions from customers. The change, effective April 28, 2026, adds a 16.9-ounce bottle of Kirkland Signature water to the beloved meal.
Costco’s hot dog combo has been priced at $1.50 for an impressive 40 years. Customers can still opt for the original combo, which includes a refillable fountain soda — a staple since its introduction in 1985.
Key facts:
- The hot dog is a quarter-pound, all-beef hot dog served on a soft bun.
- The bottled water option is available alongside the traditional soda choice.
- Customers can purchase bottled water separately for 25 cents.
- The original combo features a 20-ounce refillable fountain soda with free refills.
Some customers feel that the bottled water should be cheaper than the soda option given that it costs less when bought separately. Yet, Costco co-founder and former CEO once famously remarked, “If you raise [the price of] the effin’ hot dog, I’ll kill you.” This sentiment underscores the importance of keeping prices stable in a market where food prices are ever-changing.
Now requiring an active membership to order from the food court at most locations, Costco continues to innovate while adhering to its tradition of value. The addition of bottled water may seem minor — but for a deal that has remained virtually untouched for decades, even small changes can stir significant conversation.
