Online and in-store prices differ because stores price by channel and location: online prices compete nationally, while store prices reflect local costs and competition, and some online prices include shipping. The good news: Walmart matches Walmart.com prices in its US stores and Target matches Target.com, so you can ask for the lower online price at checkout.
Why online and store prices differ
- Different competition. Online prices compete with every website. Store prices compete with the stores nearby.
- Different costs. Stores pay for rent, staff and shelf space. Online orders have shipping and fulfillment costs.
- Location pricing. Many chains set store prices by area. See how grocery pricing works.
- Online-only deals and fees. Some deals exist only online, and some online prices include shipping and handling.
Stores that match their own website
| Store | Get the online price in store? |
|---|---|
| Walmart | Yes, Walmart.com price, sold by Walmart, in stock. Ask at checkout |
| Target | Yes, Target.com and app prices, at checkout or within 14 days |
| Costco | No, warehouse and Costco.com prices are separate |
| Best Buy | Price Match Guarantee covers BestBuy.com and listed competitors |
How to get the lower price
- In the aisle, check the online price in the store's app, or scan to compare all stores at once.
- Ask at a staffed register before paying. Self-checkout can't override prices.
- Consider pickup. Ordering online for in-store pickup can lock in the online price without a price match.
- Scan the barcode of the item on the shelf with Price Match Paradise. No account needed to start.
- Review matching offers across supported retailer sources, with stock status and price-match guidance when the retailer data is available.
- Decide in the aisle: ask for a match, buy it here because it's already the best price, or pick it up where it's cheaper.
Don't stop at one store's website
Getting a store's online price is good. Knowing whether another store is cheaper still is better. Some stores match competitors too. See the complete price matching guide and how to price match online orders.
FAQ
Why are prices different online and in store?
Stores price online and in-store channels separately, based on different competition, costs and location. Some online prices also include shipping.
Does Walmart match its online price in store?
Yes. Walmart US stores match the Walmart.com price for identical items sold by Walmart and in stock online, if you ask at checkout. Rollbacks, clearance and special events are excluded.
Does Target match Target.com prices in store?
Yes. Target matches its own lower prices from Target.com and the Target app, at checkout or within 14 days of purchase.
Are Costco online prices the same as in the warehouse?
Not always. Costco.com prices can differ and may include shipping and handling, and the two channels are treated separately for price adjustments.
See every price in one scan.
Compare the same item at 50+ supported retailer sources, in store and online, in one search. Free to start.
Keep reading
Sources: Walmart policies · Target Price Match Guarantee · Costco policy summary (StorePolicies). Summary as of September 22, 2026. Policies change and individual stores have discretion, so confirm with the store. Price Match Paradise isn't affiliated with or endorsed by any retailer mentioned.
Price Match Paradise Team
We build the barcode price comparison app that helps shoppers find the lowest price on the item in their hand. Spotted a policy change? Let us know.