Home › Maryland › ZIP 21286

Food Truck Market: ZIP 21286

Opportunity Score

62 / 100 Good

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

Market Profile

ZIP 21286 sits in the above-average walkability at 12.6/20 on the EPA index. Median income runs 26% above the national median — $93,808 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 21286 is an urban area with moderate foot traffic. with a population of 21,853 and household incomes above the national median ($93,808). The area has 58 restaurants and just 3 food trucks — low competition with strong demand signals.

Area Profile

21,853

Population

$93,808

Median Income

+26% vs. national

Urban

Area Type

12.6/20

Foot Traffic

Walkable

Median Age: 39.6 — mixed-age market, broad menu appeal.

College-Educated: 40.6% — strong appetite for artisan/specialty food.

Competition

Food service establishments in ZIP 21286.

Food Trucks

Low competition — room to establish

1.4 per 10K residents

Sit-Down Restaurants

8.7 per 10K residents

Fast Food / Counter

17.8 per 10K residents

What this means: Food trucks are 4.9% of the food scene here (3 trucks vs. 58 restaurants). Moderate truck presence — demand is proven but not saturated.

Operating Costs

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

$1,605

Median Gross Rent

$430 K

Median Home Value

Bank Branches

$700 K deposits

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 58 restaurants. Dining demand is proven and truck competition is minimal. This is a strong setup.