Comparing IKEA Against Costco Outdoor Furniture: Here's What To Know Before You Buy

When it comes to scoring quality furniture at a bargain, two big names often come to mind — IKEA and Costco — but which one truly delivers the best value for your backyard? While both brands offer a wide range of outdoor furniture styles, the right choice ultimately depends on what matters most to you when making your purchase. IKEA and Costco consistently rank highest in customer satisfaction for home furnishings, but key differences between them could influence your decision. IKEA outperforms Costco when it comes to their affordable pricing, but Costco stands out for its durability, easier assembly and generous return policy — which may justify the hefty price tag for some shoppers.

Even if you prioritize a good deal, you may still wonder if the least expensive patio furniture at IKEA is worth buying. However for Costco, it may be harder to find outdoor furniture that can fit within a tight budget. Before committing to one brand to furnish your next outdoor upgrade, knowing all the pros and cons of each choice will help make sure you land on the best decision for your specific needs.

IKEA's secrets to keeping their pricing low have made it a popular outdoor furnishing choice for decades. It's hard to deny that when it comes to budget-friendly pricing, IKEA undoubtedly outranks Costco with its affordable options. That said, Costco's prices are still reasonable for many budgets, and the higher costs could be rationalized by some of their favorable advantages. In fact, Costco's price adjustment policy could save you money, as they refund the difference if an item goes on sale after you purchased it. Costco's famously attractive return policy allows you to return products for any reason at any time, while IKEA offers a 365-day return window for a full refund.

Aside from pricing and policies, durability plays a big role in the value of outdoor furniture, and shoppers are looking for designs that can truly weather any storm. Although IKEA's outdoor furniture is made with strong materials like rattan and pre-treated wood, Costco often uses sturdier materials that can stand stronger than wood in harsh conditions. But it's hard to ignore the impact assembly processes will also have on shopper's decisions. IKEA's flat-pack designs are known to be challenging to assemble, swaying many customers towards Costco's typically straightforward process. If you want to avoid the headache of self-assembly, both brands do offer assembly services for an additional fee. Choosing between IKEA and Costco for your outdoor furnishings will ultimately come down to your personal priorities — whether it's affordability, durability, or convenience.