How many food trucks are in ZIP 28786?

There are 3 food trucks registered in ZIP 28786. Competition is low, which is a favorable signal for operators entering this market.

Is ZIP 28786 a good market for a food truck?

ZIP 28786 scores 47/100 on our food truck opportunity index — a fair market. The score is calculated from walkability, median income, population density, and existing food truck competition.

What is the median household income in ZIP 28786?

The median household income in ZIP 28786 is $56,047, 25% below the national median of $74,580. Moderate incomes support a balance of quality and value-priced menus.

How does food truck competition compare to restaurants in ZIP 28786?

Food trucks are 4.8% of the food service market in ZIP 28786 (3 trucks vs. 59 restaurants). Moderate truck presence with proven demand and room for new operators.

Home › North Carolina › ZIP 28786

Food Truck Costs Near Waynesville, NC (28786)

Opportunity Score

47 / 100 Fair

Based on walkability, population density, income levels, and local business competition.

Market Profile

ZIP 28786 is a car-dependent suburban market. Walkability scores low — below the national average of 10.5. Most customers arrive by vehicle, so parking access matters more than foot traffic. Event catering and business park lunch routes outperform traditional street corners here.

Market Summary

ZIP 28786 is an suburban area. with a population of 22,153 and household incomes near the national median ($56,047). The area has 59 restaurants and just 3 food trucks — low competition with strong demand signals.

Area Profile

22,153

Population

$56,047

Median Income

-25% vs. national

Suburban

Area Type

Median Age: 49.3 — older demographic, may prefer sit-down options.

College-Educated: 24.3% — value-focused market, keep prices competitive.

Competition

Food Trucks and related businesses in ZIP 28786.

Food Trucks

Low competition — room to establish

1.4 per 10K residents

Sit-Down Restaurants

15.3 per 10K residents

Fast Food / Counter

11.3 per 10K residents

What this means: Food Trucks are 4.8% of the relevant market in ZIP 28786 (3 vs. 59 related businesses). Moderate presence with proven demand and room for new operators.

Operating Costs

Local cost levels affect space, labor, and operating expenses.

$1,084

Median Gross Rent

$270 K

Median Home Value

Bank Branches

$800 K deposits

What to Expect Here

Go Where the Crowd Is

Low walkability means foot traffic isn't your friend. Farmers markets, corporate campuses, breweries with food programs, and private events are your revenue base. Get on Roaming Hunger or a local catering platform before you open.

Low Competition, Proven Demand

Only 3 food trucks registered here against 59 restaurants. Dining demand is proven and truck competition is minimal. This is a strong setup.