Thrift stores seem to be more popular than ever these days, don’t you agree? With prices rising across the board, everyone is looking for a good bargain. Thrifting allows you to stretch your dollar further and potentially uncover rare vintage pieces or other hidden gems along the way. Thrift shopping reduces waste by preventing items from going to landfills.

I decided to assemble this guide to help you find top and best thrift stores in Stockton, California. Whether you’re new to thrifting or are a seasoned pro, Stockton has some excellent thrift stores to explore.

Below I’ll cover why thrifting is so popular here in Stockton, what to look for in a quality thrift store, and then dive into reviews of the top 15 thrift shops in Stockton. I’ll also share some tips for shopping thrift stores in general and the many benefits of thrifting. Let’s get started!

Key Takeaways

 

Why Thrifting is So Popular in Stockton, CA

Thrifting has grown tremendously in popularity over the last decade, both across the U.S. and right here in Stockton. Here are some of the main reasons thrifting has become such a craze:

• Great deals: The number one draw of thrift stores is the chance to save big on quality items. Many items are priced at a fraction of retail cost.
• Chance finds: Thrifting gives thrill-seekers the chance to uncover rare vintage or antique items. You never know what unique treasures you’ll find on each visit.
• Variety: Thrift stores hold appeal for all different styles and interests. They are great spots to find everything from books to furniture to clothes and more.
• Community: Stockton has developed a vibrant thrifting community. Experienced thrifters love sharing their finds and tips online or with fellow shoppers in store.
• Selection: There are so many great thrift stores scattered throughout Stockton. Thrift shoppers here are spoiled for choice.

With this great thrifting culture and community, it’s no wonder Stockton has become a popular destination for thrifters throughout Northern California. Now let’s look at what traits make for a quality thrift store.

What to Look for in a Quality Thrift Store

While the merchandise at any thrift store will vary day to day, there are some general signs of a good thrift spot:

• Organization: Items should be neatly organized by category, size, color, etc. Proper organization makes browsing easier.
• New inventory: The best thrift stores continuously put out new items rather than letting merchandise grow stale. Ask employees when new deliveries tend to arrive.
• Range of products: Quality thrift stores will have a wide range of categories such as clothing, shoes, books, furniture, electronics, housewares, toys, and more.
• Pricing: Obviously prices should be affordable, but beware of shops that price everything too low. Better thrifts know the value of high quality items.
• Condition: A good thrift shop will clean, inspect, and repair items as needed before putting them on the floor.
• Employees: The staff should be friendly and able to assist customers with any questions. Many rely on volunteers.
• Charity: Most thrift stores support various charities and community programs, either locally or nationally. This gives back and provides a tax benefit for donations.

Using those criteria, let’s take a look at the top thrift stores that Stockton has to offer.

The Top 15 Thrift Stores in Stockton, CA

1. Superior Thrift Store

Address: 2105 S El Dorado St, Stockton, CA 95206
Phone Number: (209) 466-6866

Superior Thrift Store first opened back in 1986 and has been a local favorite for over 30 years now. They boast “Stockton’s largest selection of merchandise under one roof.”

With affordable prices and profits that go to support various rehabilitation centers, it’s easy to see why Superior Thrift is so popular. They have a constantly changing selection across all categories – clothing, furniture, electronics, books, collectibles, and more. Be sure to check out their weekly discount specials too.

2. Goodwill

Address: 3900 Hammer Ln Suite J, Stockton, CA 95219
Phone Number: (209) 474-6901

As part of the nationwide Goodwill organization, this Stockton Goodwill location has all the usual perks. There is always a nice variety of donated goods spread throughout the tidy, organized store. Categories include clothing, shoes, books, accessories, housewares, electronics, and furniture.

With new inventory coming in daily from local donations, there are always new treasures to uncover. Profits fund employment programs for people with disabilities and vocational challenges right within the community.

3. Hope Chest Thrift Store

Address: 12423 N. Hwy 99, Lodi, CA 95240
Phone Number: (209) 339-0601

Hope Chest Thrift Store benefits Community Hospice, a local non-profit hospice and palliative care provider. The bright, welcoming shop carries an assortment of clothing, collectibles, furniture, and home decor items. They get daily donations, so there are always new items hitting the floor.

Hope Chest runs 50% off sales on select categories each day of the week. Be sure to pop in on the category of your choice to maximize savings. Proceeds go to fund hospice programs supporting terminally ill patients and their families within San Joaquin county and the surrounding communities.

4. Discovery Shop

Address: 2318 Pacific Ave Suite A, Stockton, CA 95204
Phone Number: (209) 474-5011

Discovery Shop is a higher-end thrift store operated by the American Cancer Society to fund cancer research and local patient programs. Given the charitable connection, many donations are high quality items in excellent condition.

The inventory at Discovery Shop leans toward clothing, jewelry, shoes, handbags, and home decorative items. Shoppers will find a thoughtful selection of merchandise that is cleanly displayed in an upscale boutique atmosphere. Pricing is affordable but reflective of the quality.

5. Big Valley Thrift

Address: 4024 Hammer Ln, Stockton, CA 95210
Phone Number: (209) 478-6290

This family-owned and operated thrift store in north Stockton has been around for over 20 years now. They occupy a large warehouse space filled with an eclectic variety of furniture, household items, clothing, books, toys, collectibles and everything in between.

Big Valley Thrift is especially known for the deep selection of furniture from living sets to mattresses to one-of-a-kind pieces. The friendly staff and weekly specials keep loyal customers coming back to see what new inventory has arrived.

6. Salvation Army Family Thrift Store

Address: 5756 Pacific Ave, Stockton, CA 95207
Phone Number: (209) 457-3220

The Salvation Army operates thrift stores all across the country as a way to fund programs supporting people in need. Their Pacific Avenue location offers clothes, accessories, toys, books, housewares, furniture, electronics and assorted knick-knacks.

Given the steady volume of donations received, there are always new items being put out throughout the day. Proceeds from sales allow The Salvation Army to operate a range of community programs including food assistance, housing, youth programs, rehabilitation, and disaster relief.

7. Lodi Junction Thrift Store

Address: 10 W. Pine Street, Lodi, CA 95240
Phone Number: (209) 367-9753

Located just outside Stockton in nearby Lodi, this thrift shop benefits local non-profit Little League in Lodi that assists seniors in need within the community. The store carries a wide range of merchandise including housewares, books, collectibles, clothing, furniture, antique items, and various hidden treasures.

Lodi Junction Thrift Store is a great spot to uncover rare vintage and antique finds at affordable prices. Check out their Facebook page for updates on the latest inventory and any special deals.

8. Crossroads Trading

Address: 10351 Trinity Pkwy Suite C, Stockton, CA 95219
Phone Number: (209) 478-9880

Crossroads Trading is a popular chain of thrift stores found throughout the western U.S. This Stockton location carries an eclectic mix of clothing, accessories, shoes, and some housewares. They are known for funky vintage clothing and accessories.

In addition to thrifting, Crossroads buys and sells clothing within their brick-and-mortar shops. Clean out your closet, and you may be able to trade older items for shopping credit. They also have an online buying/selling marketplace.

9. Puffy’s Thrift Store

Address: 1905 N Wilson Way, Stockton, CA 95205
Phone Number: (209) 465-4089

Puffy’s Thrift Store has been an affordable Stockton shopping staple for over 20 years. They carry a wide range including clothing, shoes, furniture, small electronics, books, DVDs, and household items. Puffy’s receives donations on a regular basis, so there are always new items mixed into the merchandise on hand.

Be sure to check out their 50% off sales held each day on select departments. All profits from sales go to support local animal welfare non-profit organizations.

10. Eco Thrift Store

Address: 2105 W March Lane Suite 1, Stockton, CA 95207
Phone Number: (209) 910-9335

Eco Thrift Store has an environmental focus they incorporate throughout their business. They accept donations of clothing, furniture, electronics, appliances, books, and housewares. Items are repaired and cleaned as needed before hitting the sales floor.

The store’s inventory has a nice mix of reused vintage items paired with upcycled fashions and furnishings. Purchases support the local environmental community. Eco Thrift provides job opportunities for at-risk youth and funding to various green causes within Stockton.

11. Shelter Thrift Store

Address: 1458 S El Dorado St, Stockton, CA 95206
Phone Number: (209) 464-6954

This thrift store is operated by the Stockton Shelter for the Homeless, a local non-profit working to provide housing programs and services to homeless individuals. The store carries clothing, furniture, small electronics, books, movies, kitchenware, toys, and assorted household items.

Given their mission, the Shelter Thrift Store prices everything affordably to benefit shoppers facing financial challenges. But the low prices also make it a favorite among thrifters looking for a bargain. All proceeds help fund the Stockton Shelter’s programs supporting homeless housing needs within the community.

12. Buy-Rite Thrift Store

Address: 6520 Pacific Ave #10, Stockton, CA 95207
Phone Number: (209) 474-4465

Buy-Rite Thrift Store is a reliable spot in Stockton to uncover everyday deals across all categories. As a discount thrift store, their prices tend to be among the lowest around. But the affordability makes them popular with thrifters on a budget.

Buy-Rite receives new merchandise donated from the community on a daily basis. So there is always a fresh mix of clothing, furniture, small appliances, home electronics, kitchenware, books, toys, seasonal items, and other household goods.

13. Fancy Flea Thrift Store

Address: 5757 Pacific Ave Suite 115, Stockton, CA 95207
Phone Number: (209) 407-4595

As their name suggests, Fancy Flea Thrift Store curates more high-end and unique pieces within their inventory. Shoppers will find a well-displayed selection of vintage furniture, luxury clothing and accessories, antique collectibles, jewelry, handbags, and other rare thrift finds.

The inventory at Fancy Flea is always changing based on the makeup of donations received. Follow their social media for sneak peeks of the latest arrivals hitting their floor. Expect reasonable pricing that reflects the quality and uniqueness of the curated items.

14. Delta Humane Society Thrift Store

Address: 4590 Paradise Rd, Stockton, CA 95206
Phone Number: (209) 948-8508

This worthwhile thrift store is operated by the Delta Humane Society, a local non-profit animal shelter serving Stockton and San Joaquin county. The store sells an array of gently used merchandise including clothing, accessories, books, furniture, small appliances, music, movies, and household collectibles.

Because the inventory depends on donations, the variety is always changing. Proceeds from sales support the Delta Humane Society’s rescue and adoption programs for local homeless animals in need.

15. Golden West Solutions Thrift Store

Address: 2508 S. Airport Way, Stockton, CA 95206
Phone Number: (209) 390-1525

Golden West Solutions is a non-profit organization that provides job training and employment services for adults with disabilities. Their thrift store supports this mission while also benefitting the community.

The store carries a standard variety of clothing, shoes, furniture, electronics, books, movies, and household items, all neatly organized and priced affordably. Purchases support job skills training programs for adults with disabilities right in the Stockton area.

Tips for Shopping at the Best Thrift Stores in Stockton

Now that you know all the best thrift spots in Stockton, here are some handy tips for making the most of your time thrifting:

• Ask staff when they typically put new merchandise on the floor so you can come at optimal times. Often early morning is best.
• Take time to dig through everything. Unique finds can be mixed in anywhere.
• Inspect items closely for flaws. Make sure anything used is in working condition.
• Mix high and low cost items together. Pair a nice coat with cheap books and housewares.
• Keep an open mind outside your usual style. Step out of your comfort zone for fun surprises.
• Don’t be shy to nicely ask staff about any upcoming sales or special deals.
• Bring your own reusable bags and backpacks. This prevents paying for bags and makes carrying items easier.
• Research rare collectibles, vintage items, or antiques using your phone before purchasing. Know the value.

The Benefits of Thrifting in Stockton, CA

Hopefully this guide has convinced you to give thrifting in Stockton a try if you haven’t already. Here are just some of the great benefits you can expect:

• Save money: First and foremost, thrifting allows you to save money on quality items for yourself and your home. Even brand name products cost a fraction of normal retail prices.
• Find hidden treasures: Every thrift trip is a treasure hunt. Part of the fun is uncovering rare vintage, antique or just plain unusual items you love.
• Reuse & recycle: Buying and donating used goods cuts down waste and pollution. Shopping thrift stores helps the environment.
• Support charities: Most thrift stores support charitable causes and programs that benefit the local community in some way.
• Explore: Hunting for thrift stores allows you to discover and explore new neighborhoods and communities within Stockton.
• Express yourself: Thrifting yields more unique items so you can better showcase your own personal style.

I hope this guide inspires you to start thrifting, or at least try out some new thrift stores in the Stockton area. Part of what makes thrifting so fun is learning and exploring at your own pace. Before you know it, you’ll be a pro thrifter uncovering amazing finds during every treasure hunt.

Please share any of your favorite thrift spots in Stockton that I may have missed! I’m always looking to update this guide and pass on helpful recommendations to fellow thrifters. Happy bargain hunting!