Garden String Lights Costco Best Deals and Top Picks for 2024

Discover the best garden string lights at Costco in 2024, offering unbeatable value, durability, and stunning ambiance for your outdoor space. From energy-efficient LEDs to weather-resistant designs, Costco’s top picks combine style and savings, with exclusive member deals making premium lighting more affordable than ever. Upgrade your backyard lighting with trusted brands and smart features—all available in-store and online this season.

Key Takeaways

• Shop seasonal sales: Costco offers deep discounts on garden string lights during spring and summer.
• Prioritize LED: Choose energy-efficient, long-lasting LED string lights for better value and durability.
• Check for smart features: Look for app-controlled or dimmable lights in Costco’s 2024 lineup.
• Verify weather resistance: Opt for IP65-rated lights to withstand outdoor conditions year-round.
• Buy in bulk: Costco’s multi-pack deals reduce cost per strand—ideal for large gardens.
• Review return policy: Confirm Costco’s 90-day return window for unopened or defective light sets.

Why Garden String Lights Are a Must-Have for Your Outdoor Space

Picture this: a warm summer evening, the sun slowly dipping below the horizon, and your backyard softly illuminated by a warm, inviting glow. That’s the magic of garden string lights from Costco. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a quiet night with a book, or simply want to enhance your outdoor ambiance, string lights can transform any garden or patio into a cozy, enchanting retreat. Over the past few years, I’ve experimented with different types of outdoor lighting, and I can honestly say that string lights—especially the ones I’ve picked up at Costco—have become my go-to solution. They’re affordable, easy to install, and instantly elevate the mood of any outdoor setting.

Costco has quietly built a reputation for offering high-quality outdoor lighting solutions at competitive prices, and their garden string lights are no exception. From solar-powered options to classic Edison-style bulbs, the warehouse giant curates a selection that caters to a variety of tastes and budgets. But with so many options available—both in-store and online—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why I’ve put together this guide: to help you find the best garden string lights at Costco in 2024, understand what makes them stand out, and make a smart, informed decision. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading your current setup, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

What Makes Costco Garden String Lights Stand Out?

Quality and Value You Can Count On

One of the biggest reasons I keep coming back to Costco for outdoor lighting is the balance of quality and affordability. Unlike big-box retailers that often prioritize low price over durability, Costco partners with trusted brands and manufacturers to deliver products that last. I’ve had a set of their 48-foot LED string lights hanging over my deck for over two years, and they still work perfectly—no flickering, no broken bulbs, and no signs of weather damage. That kind of longevity is rare, especially at the price point.

Costco also tends to offer larger bulb counts and longer cord lengths than many competitors. For example, while most retailers sell 25- or 30-bulb strings, Costco often carries 40-, 50-, or even 100-bulb versions. This means you can cover more ground with fewer strings, reducing the need for multiple power sources or extension cords. Plus, many of their lights come with commercial-grade rubber insulation, which makes them more resistant to UV rays, rain, and temperature swings—ideal for year-round outdoor use.

Smart Features and Energy Efficiency

In 2024, it’s not just about looks—functionality matters too. Many of the garden string lights at Costco now come with smart features like dimming, color-changing modes, and even app or voice control (compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant). I recently upgraded to a set of Wi-Fi-enabled LED string lights, and the ability to schedule on/off times or change colors from my phone has been a game-changer. I can set a soft white glow for family dinners or switch to festive colors for holiday gatherings—all without getting up from the couch.

Energy efficiency is another standout. Most of Costco’s LED options use up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last up to 25,000 hours. That means lower electricity bills and fewer bulb replacements over time. Some models even include motion sensors or dusk-to-dawn photocells, so they turn on automatically at sunset and off at sunrise—perfect for forgetful homeowners or those who want hands-off convenience.

Customer Reviews and Return Policy

Let’s be honest—when you’re investing in outdoor lighting, you want peace of mind. Costco’s generous return policy (typically two years with a receipt) gives you plenty of time to test your lights in real-world conditions. I once bought a set that didn’t match the color temperature I expected, and I was able to return it hassle-free. That kind of support is invaluable, especially for seasonal items.

Plus, Costco’s website features detailed customer reviews with photos. I always check these before buying. Real users share how the lights look in their gardens, how easy they are to install, and how they hold up in different weather conditions. This helps me avoid “catalog-only” purchases that look great online but fall flat in real life.

Top Garden String Lights at Costco in 2024

Best Overall: Philips 50-Foot LED String Lights with Remote

If you’re looking for a reliable, feature-packed option, the Philips 50-Foot LED String Lights are my top pick. These come with 50 warm white LEDs spaced 12 inches apart, offering even, soft illumination perfect for patios, pergolas, and garden paths. The included remote lets you adjust brightness, set timers, and choose from three color temperatures (warm white, daylight, and cool white).

I installed these above my dining area, and the effect is magical—like dining under a canopy of stars. They’re IP65-rated for water resistance, so they’ve handled heavy rain and morning dew without a hitch. At around $60 (as of early 2024), they’re a steal compared to similar models at specialty lighting stores.

Best for Large Spaces: Hampton Bay 100-Bulb Solar-Powered String Lights

For sprawling backyards or garden parties, the Hampton Bay 100-Bulb Solar String Lights are a lifesaver. These come with a solar panel that charges during the day and powers the lights for up to 10 hours at night. No need for outlets or extension cords—just stake the panel in a sunny spot and string the lights wherever you want.

I used these to light a 30-foot stretch of my backyard fence, and they provided consistent, soft lighting all evening. The bulbs are shatterproof and weather-resistant, and the string is 48 feet long with 100 LEDs. At $55, they’re one of the most cost-effective options for large-scale lighting. Just keep in mind: performance depends on sunlight exposure. On cloudy days, they might not last the full 10 hours.

Best for Ambiance: Westinghouse 40-Foot Edison-Style String Lights

For that rustic, bistro-style vibe, the Westinghouse Edison-Style String Lights are hard to beat. These feature 40 vintage-style LED bulbs with a warm, amber glow—perfect for creating a cozy, romantic atmosphere. I hung them between two trees in my garden, and they instantly made the space feel like a European courtyard.

The string is 40 feet long with 12-inch spacing, and the bulbs are dimmable with a compatible dimmer switch (sold separately). They’re ETL-listed for outdoor use and come with a 2-year warranty. At $50, they’re a bit pricier than basic models, but the aesthetic payoff is worth it. Just note: the bulbs are not replaceable, so if one fails, you’ll need to replace the whole strand.

Best Smart Option: LIFX 25-Foot Color-Changing String Lights

Tech lovers, rejoice. The LIFX 25-Foot Color-Changing String Lights bring smart home integration to your garden. These connect directly to Wi-Fi (no hub required) and let you control color, brightness, and schedules via the LIFX app or voice assistants. I’ve used them for holiday parties, changing from red and green to blue and white with just a few taps.

Each bulb is individually addressable, so you can create custom patterns or sync with music. The 25-foot strand has 25 bulbs, and the IP65 rating ensures durability. At $120, they’re the most expensive on this list, but for tech-savvy homeowners who want full control, they’re worth every penny.

Budget Pick: Costco Kirkland Signature 30-Foot LED String Lights

You can’t talk about Costco without mentioning Kirkland Signature. Their 30-foot LED string lights are a no-frills, high-value option. With 30 warm white LEDs and a simple plug-and-play design, they’re perfect for beginners or those on a tight budget. I keep a set in my garage for quick outdoor setups—like when I need to light a pathway for a last-minute gathering.

They’re $30, weather-resistant, and surprisingly bright for their size. While they lack smart features or remote controls, they get the job done. And if you’re a Costco member, you might even snag a seasonal discount.

How to Choose the Right Garden String Lights for Your Space

Assess Your Lighting Needs

Before you buy, ask yourself: What do I want to achieve? Are you looking for ambient lighting for evening relaxation, task lighting for outdoor cooking, or decorative lighting for special events? For ambiance, go with warm white or amber LEDs with soft, diffused light. For task lighting, choose brighter, cooler whites with higher lumens (300+ per bulb).

Also, consider the size of your space. A small balcony might only need a 25-foot string, while a large backyard could require multiple 40- or 50-foot strands. Measure your area and sketch a rough layout. I once underestimated the length I needed and had to run extension cords across my lawn—definitely not ideal.

Power Source: Plug-In, Solar, or Battery?

The power source is a critical decision. Plug-in lights offer consistent brightness and long runtime but require access to outdoor outlets. I use these for permanent installations under my pergola. Solar-powered lights are great for remote areas (like garden paths or fences) but depend on sunlight. I’ve found they work best in south-facing spots with 6+ hours of direct sun.

Battery-operated lights offer flexibility but need frequent recharging or battery changes. I keep a set in my toolbox for emergencies or pop-up events. For most homeowners, I recommend a mix: plug-in for main areas and solar for accents.

Weather Resistance and Durability

Outdoor lights face rain, wind, snow, and UV exposure. Look for IP65 or IP67 ratings, which indicate protection against dust and water jets. All the Costco picks I’ve mentioned meet this standard. Also, check the cord material—rubber is more durable than plastic and resists cracking in cold weather.

Another tip: inspect the bulb type. Shatterproof LEDs or plastic bulbs are safer than glass, especially if you have kids or pets. And if you live in a windy area, opt for lights with reinforced hanging loops or clips to prevent sagging.

Installation Tips for a Professional Look

• Use guide wires or zip ties to hang lights evenly. I use thin steel cables strung between trees or posts, then clip the lights to them with S-hooks. This prevents sagging and creates a clean, professional look.
• Plan your layout before hanging. Use painter’s tape to mark bulb positions on your support structure. This helps you avoid over- or under-lighting areas.
• Hide cords with cord covers or by routing them behind plants. I once used a wooden lattice to conceal extension cords, and it looked seamless.
• Test before final installation. Plug in the lights and walk through the space to check brightness and coverage. Adjust spacing if needed.

Cost Comparison: Costco vs. Other Retailers

To see how Costco stacks up, I compared five popular garden string light models across major retailers in early 2024. Here’s a snapshot of the data:

Brand & Model	Bulb Count	Length	Price (Costco)	Price (Amazon)	Price (Home Depot)	Smart Features
Philips 50-Foot LED String	50	50 ft	$59.99	$69.99	$74.99	Remote control, dimming
Hampton Bay Solar String	100	48 ft	$54.99	$64.99	$69.99	Solar-powered, dusk-to-dawn
Westinghouse Edison-Style	40	40 ft	$49.99	$59.99	$64.99	Dimmable (with switch)
LIFX Color-Changing	25	25 ft	$119.99	$129.99	$139.99	Wi-Fi, app/voice control
Kirkland Signature LED	30	30 ft	$29.99	Not available	$39.99 (similar model)	None

As you can see, Costco consistently offers 10–20% lower prices than competitors for comparable models. The Kirkland Signature lights are a standout—exclusive to Costco and unmatched in value. Even the premium LIFX model is $10–$20 cheaper at Costco, which can add up if you’re buying multiple strands.

Keep in mind: Costco’s online inventory varies by location and season. Some models are in-store exclusives, while others are only available online. I recommend checking both channels. And if you’re a Costco Executive Member, you’ll earn 2% cash back on your purchase—another small saving that adds up over time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (And How to Fix Them)

Overloading Circuits

One of the biggest mistakes I see? Plugging too many strings into one outlet. Most outdoor circuits can handle 15–20 amps. If you exceed that, you risk tripping a breaker or even causing a fire. A 50-bulb LED string typically draws 0.5–1 amp, so you can safely connect 15–20 strands to one circuit. But always check the wattage on the packaging.

If you need more lights, use a dedicated outdoor GFCI outlet or install a secondary power source. I added a weatherproof outlet box to my garage wall, which now powers my entire backyard setup.

Ignoring Maintenance

Even the best lights need care. Clean bulbs and cords annually with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. This improves brightness and prevents corrosion. I do this every spring before hanging my lights.

Also, inspect for damage before each use. Look for frayed wires, loose bulbs, or water inside sockets. If you find any issues, replace the strand—don’t try to fix it yourself. Safety first!

Choosing the Wrong Color Temperature

Color temperature (measured in Kelvin) affects mood. Warm white (2700K–3000K) creates a cozy, inviting feel—perfect for dining or relaxing. Cool white (4000K–5000K) is brighter and more energizing, better for workspaces or pathways.

I once bought cool white lights for my garden and hated them—they felt too harsh. I swapped to warm white and instantly loved the change. If you’re unsure, buy a small set first to test.

Final Thoughts: Are Costco Garden String Lights Worth It?

After years of testing outdoor lighting—from cheap drugstore finds to high-end designer brands—I can confidently say that garden string lights from Costco offer some of the best value on the market. They combine quality, durability, and smart features at prices that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re lighting a cozy nook or a sprawling backyard, Costco has options that deliver both function and beauty.

What I love most is the peace of mind. With strong customer reviews, a generous return policy, and a curated selection of trusted brands, you’re not just buying a product—you’re investing in a solution that’s been vetted by real users. And in 2024, when energy efficiency and smart home integration are more important than ever, Costco’s lineup keeps up with the trends without sacrificing simplicity.

So, if you’re ready to transform your outdoor space, head to your local Costco or browse their website. Grab a set (or two), follow the tips in this guide, and get ready to enjoy your garden in a whole new light. Trust me—once you’ve experienced the magic of well-placed string lights, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find the best deals on garden string lights at Costco?

Costco offers competitive pricing on garden string lights, especially during seasonal sales in spring and summer. Check their website or warehouse clearance sections for limited-time discounts on top-rated brands like Philips and Hampton Bay.

Are Costco’s garden string lights weatherproof for year-round use?

Most garden string lights at Costco are rated for outdoor use (IP44 or higher), making them resistant to rain and dust. Always verify the product description to ensure they’re suitable for your local climate conditions.

Do Costco’s garden string lights come with smart features like app control?

Yes, select models (e.g., Philips Hue) at Costco include Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connectivity for app or voice control. Look for “smart” in the product title or features list to find these options.

How long are the garden string lights from Costco, and can they be connected?

Lengths vary from 25 to 100 feet, and many sets are connectable end-to-end for extended coverage. Check the packaging for maximum connection limits (usually 3–5 strands).

What makes Costco’s garden string lights a better value than other retailers?

Costco’s garden string lights often include extra bulbs, longer warranties, or bundled accessories (e.g., timers) at similar price points. Their return policy also adds peace of mind for bulk purchases.

Does Costco offer solar-powered garden string lights?

Yes, Costco stocks solar-powered options with dusk-to-dawn sensors, ideal for eco-friendly lighting. These are frequently available during warmer months and in their online energy-efficient collections.