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Food Truck Market: ZIP 15228

Opportunity Score

72 / 100 Good

Based on walkability, population density, income levels, and food truck competition.

Market Profile

ZIP 15228 sits in the top walkability tier at 15.5/20 on the EPA index. Median income runs 76% above the national figure — $131,087 vs. $74,580 nationally. High foot traffic and real purchasing power make this one of the stronger food truck markets in the country. The tradeoff: commissary kitchen rates and permit fees are elevated to match.

Market Summary

ZIP 15228 is an urban area with high foot traffic. with a population of 18,187 and household incomes well above the national median ($131,087). The area has 33 restaurants and just 3 food trucks — low competition with strong demand signals.

Area Profile

18,187

Population

$131,087

Median Income

+76% vs. national

Urban

Area Type

15.5/20

Foot Traffic

Very Walkable

Median Age: 40.9 — older demographic, may prefer sit-down options.

College-Educated: 47.2% — strong appetite for artisan/specialty food.

Competition

Food service establishments in ZIP 15228.

Food Trucks

Low competition — room to establish

1.6 per 10K residents

Sit-Down Restaurants

12.1 per 10K residents

Fast Food / Counter

6.0 per 10K residents

What this means: Food trucks are 8.3% of the food scene here (3 trucks vs. 33 restaurants). Moderate truck presence — demand is proven but not saturated.

Operating Costs

Local cost levels affect commissary kitchen rates, permits, and event vendor pricing.

$1,440

2BR Fair Market Rent

$1,130

Median Gross Rent

$360 K

Median Home Value

Bank Branches

$270 K deposits

Commissary estimate: This is a higher-cost area. Monthly commissary kitchen rentals typically run $170–$370 in markets like this.

What to Expect Here

Fixed Location Beats Roaming

High-foot-traffic areas reward consistency. If you can secure a recurring spot near offices or transit stops, build your weekly schedule around it. Regular customers drive more revenue than novelty seekers.

Premium Pricing Holds Here

Income levels and education rates both point toward a market that will pay for quality. Specialty ingredients, dietary accommodations, and strong branding all command price premiums in this ZIP. Don't race to the bottom.

Low Competition, Proven Demand

Only 3 food trucks registered here against 33 restaurants. Dining demand is proven and truck competition is minimal. This is a strong setup.