Costco Owner Net Worth (Updated 2026).

James D. Sinegal, born in 1936, began his career at the age of 19 in a small Seattle-based grocery store called Piggly Wiggly. He started as a night stock clerk, demonstrating an early work ethic and dedication that would become his hallmark.

In 1954, Sinegal met Sol Price, the founder of FedMart, a discount store chain. Price became a mentor to Sinegal, teaching him the principles of running a successful discount retail business. This mentorship would prove instrumental in Sinegal’s future endeavors.

Costco Owner’s Current Net Worth (2025)

As of 2025, Costco’s co-founder and former CEO, Jim Sinegal, has an estimated net worth of $1.2 billion, according to Forbes. This figure reflects his significant contribution to the company’s growth and success.

Career

Jim Sinegal co-founded Costco in 1983, serving as its CEO until 2012. Under his leadership, the company grew from a single warehouse in Seattle to a global retailer with over 785 locations worldwide. He is widely recognized for his innovative business strategies and employee-friendly policies.

Other Ventures

Beyond Costco, Sinegal has been involved in various philanthropic efforts. He is a significant donor to the University of Washington’s business school, which bears his name. Additionally, he has served on the board of directors for several other companies, including Starbucks.

Assets

Sinegal’s assets primarily consist of Costco stock, which accounts for a significant portion of his net worth. He also owns residential properties in the Seattle area and other real estate investments. His art collection, featuring works by renowned artists like Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, is another notable asset.

Annual Income

While Sinegal’s annual income varies, in 2012, his final year as CEO, he earned a total compensation of $9.7 million, according to Forbes. This figure includes his base salary, stock awards, and other forms of compensation. Since retiring from Costco, his annual income has not been publicly disclosed.

Frequently Asked Questions about  Costco Owner

Frequently Asked Questions: Costco Owner Net Worth

1. Who is the current owner of Costco?

The current owner of Costco is Jim Sinegal, the co-founder of the company. He served as the CEO from 1983 to 2012 and then as the executive chairman until 2017.

2. What is the net worth of the Costco owner?

The latest estimated net worth of Jim Sinegal is $3.1 billion.

3. How did Jim Sinegal become the owner of Costco?

Jim Sinegal co-founded Costco with Jeff Brotman in 1983. They started the company as a division of Price Club, and in 1993, they merged with Price Club to form what is now known as Costco.

4. What is the role of the Costco owner in the company?

Jim Sinegal served as the CEO of Costco from 1983 to 2012. He then served as the executive chairman until 2017. He played a significant role in the company’s growth and expansion.

5. How has the Costco owner’s wealth changed over time?

The net worth of Jim Sinegal has grown significantly over the years due to the success and growth of Costco. His wealth has been estimated to be around $1.3 billion in 2008, which has more than doubled in the last decade.

6. What is the Costco owner’s investment portfolio like?

Jim Sinegal’s investment portfolio is not publicly disclosed. However, as the owner of Costco, a significant portion of his wealth is tied to the company’s stock.

7. How does the Costco owner’s net worth compare to other retail billionaires?

Jim Sinegal’s net worth places him among the wealthiest people in the world and in the retail industry. He is wealthier than many other retail billionaires, including the owners of Walmart and Target.

8. What is the Costco owner’s philanthropic work like?

Jim Sinegal is known for his philanthropic work. He has donated to various causes, including education and healthcare. In 2017, he donated $1 million to the University of Washington’s Foster School of Business.

9. What is the Costco owner’s political affiliation?

Jim Sinegal’s political affiliation is not publicly known. However, he has been a registered Democrat in the past.

10. What is the future of Costco under the current owner’s leadership?

The future of Costco is expected to be bright under the current leadership. The company has been expanding globally and has been performing well financially. However, Jim Sinegal is no longer involved in the day-to-day operations of the company, so the future will largely depend on the current management team.